Graduate Diploma of Information Technology

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA):

GA1: Intellectual rigour

• Apply advanced knowledge and skills in information and communications technology (ICT) to solve real-world problems using appropriate tools and industry practices.
• Analyse and apply integrated ICT knowledge, professional practices, and project management principles to deliver solutions aligned with organisational goals.

GA2: Creativity

• Apply advanced knowledge and skills in information and communications technology (ICT) to solve real-world problems using appropriate tools and industry practices.
• Analyse and apply integrated ICT knowledge, professional practices, and project management principles to deliver solutions aligned with organisational goals.

GA3: Ethical practice

• Communicate and collaborate effectively through active participation, ethical decision-making, and integration of diverse perspectives into team-based work.
• Reflect on personal capabilities, professional development, and emerging ICT trends, including awareness of Indigenous perspectives and the evolving role of ICT in society.

GA4: Knowledge of a discipline

• Apply advanced knowledge and skills in information and communications technology (ICT) to solve real-world problems using appropriate tools and industry practices.
• Analyse and apply integrated ICT knowledge, professional practices, and project management principles to deliver solutions aligned with organisational goals.

GA5: Lifelong learning

• Reflect on personal capabilities, professional development, and emerging ICT trends, including awareness of Indigenous perspectives and the evolving role of ICT in society.

GA6: Communication and social skills

• Communicate and collaborate effectively through active participation, ethical decision-making, and integration of diverse perspectives into team-based work.

GA7: Cultural competence

• Communicate and collaborate effectively through active participation, ethical decision-making, and integration of diverse perspectives into team-based work.
• Reflect on personal capabilities, professional development, and emerging ICT trends, including awareness of Indigenous perspectives and the evolving role of ICT in society.

Ready to accelerate your career in the dynamic world of Information and Communication Technology? Your journey into the future of tech hits its stride here.

The Graduate Diploma in Information Technology is designed for those ready to dive deeper. Positioned as the critical link between foundational IT and elite mastery, this course expands your technical toolkit across programming, systems, and security. It provides the advanced technical scaffolding required to transition into the highest levels of the industry.

This course builds the robust technical expertise needed for the modern workforce, and also serves as a pathway into our Master of Information Technology. Upon progression to the Master’s level, you will choose your elite specialisation, becoming an expert in either Artificial Intelligence or Cybersecurity.

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma receive direct entry and up to eight units of credit towards the Master of Information Technology.

Throughout the course, you will gain industry-relevant knowledge tailored to emerging technologies and aligned with globally recognised certification programs. Stand out in a crowded market: along with your academic credentials, you will earn certified digital badges, the ultimate ‘green light’ for recruiters that opens doors to high-impact roles the moment you finish.

It’s more than a Diploma; it’s your technical blueprint for a career that doesn’t just keep up with the world, but defines it.

Award requirements

To be eligible to receive the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology, students must complete the equivalent of 8 units (96 credit points), comprising:

• 7 core units (84 credit points) and
• 1 option unit (12 credit points).

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $27,000

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Revolutionary learning for strong employment outcomes

At Southern Cross University, online study is designed to fit around your life without compromising on quality. Through the Southern Cross Model, you learn in focused six-week terms, usually studying one or two units at a time.

This immersive approach helps you stay motivated, build momentum and balance study with work, family and other commitments.

You'll be supported by innovative teaching, practical learning experiences and a university community committed to your success - whether you're interested in business, education, healthcare, law, engineering, IT, science or other career-focused study areas.

Your flexible online study comes with the support, connections and confidence to help you achieve your goals and take the next step in your career.

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

31

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

32

Applicants may be considered for admission to the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology if they have:

• a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent postgraduate qualification in any discipline
• a tertiary education qualification at AQF level 6 or above in a related field, or
• an equivalent professional experience as determined by the relevant Associate Dean.

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for applicants for entry to this course are a score equal to or above IELTS 6.0 with no band less than 5.5.

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows. Don’t meet the English language requirements? View our English language programs.

• Overall Score: 6.0
• Reading: 5.5
• Writing: 5.5
• Listening: 5.5
• Speaking: 5.5

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.