The Diploma of Science is an undergraduate-level qualification at Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5, designed to give students a broad and solid grounding in scientific knowledge and skills across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. The course introduces students to the language and methods of science, critical thinking, laboratory techniques, and research skills, making it suitable both as a standalone qualification and as a recognised pathway into a full Bachelor of Science degree. Students typically complete the diploma in one year full-time, and many providers offer credit transfer arrangements that allow graduates to enter directly into the second year of a linked bachelor's degree.

The Diploma of Science is offered by universities, university colleges, and TAFE-affiliated providers across Australia, making it widely accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds. Some programs allow students to choose a specialisation — such as Earth and Environmental Systems, Marine Systems, Forensic Science, Biotechnology, or Medical Science — while others focus on foundational science with flexible electives. Graduates leave with both practical laboratory competencies and strong academic skills including assignment writing, critical reading, data analysis, referencing, and scientific communication.

Employers who value this qualification include government agencies, environmental consultancies, research institutes, hospitals, pathology laboratories, mining and resource companies, pharmaceutical firms, non-government organisations, schools, and primary industries. The diploma is particularly valued by employers as evidence of practical scientific grounding, and many graduates use it to launch careers in para-professional science roles while continuing their studies part-time.

Most Australian providers offering the Diploma of Science accept a range of entry pathways, making it one of the more accessible higher education qualifications. The most common academic requirement is completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or its overseas equivalent, with some providers setting a minimum ATAR (typically between 30 and 60, depending on the institution). Importantly, many providers do not require an ATAR at all — work experience, VET/TAFE qualifications, or prior higher education study can all be used to satisfy entry requirements. Applicants with a Certificate III or above from a registered training organisation, or those who have been out of secondary school for more than two years, are often assessed using an alternative selection rank based on academic history and relevant experience.

Prerequisite subjects from Year 12 vary by provider and specialisation but commonly include one or more of: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. Students who lack specific prerequisites may be able to satisfy them through bridging courses or approved tertiary subjects. Some providers, such as those offering open enrolment options, allow students to begin with foundational units regardless of prior qualifications, making the diploma genuinely accessible to mature-age students and career changers.

International students must satisfy English language requirements in addition to academic criteria. A typical minimum is an IELTS Academic overall score of 5.5 to 6.5 (with minimum component scores varying by provider), or equivalent results from tests such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Students who do not meet English language requirements are often directed to preparatory English language programs. All international students studying full-time on campus are eligible to apply for an Australian student visa (Subclass 500).