The Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is a postgraduate qualification that equips students with the knowledge and skills to identify, prevent, and manage complex and diverse health risks, hazards, and exposures in the workplace. Students develop a deep understanding of best practices when implementing and evaluating risk management interventions within a broad range of workplace and community environments. This multidisciplinary course provides specialised advanced training for graduates or OHS practitioners, with an emphasis on risk and safety management, accident prevention, and safety technology. It is typically structured as a one-semester full-time or equivalent part-time program, comprising four units covering foundational topics such as OHS management systems, work health and safety legislation, physical hazards, occupational health and wellbeing, and human factors.

The course is designed for working professionals who either hold or aspire to roles in the OHS field, as well as graduates from other disciplines seeking to transition into workplace health and safety. It suits those currently working in industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, government, and corporate services who need a formalised, accredited credential. The Graduate Certificate is also an ideal entry point for those wishing to progress into a Graduate Diploma or Master of OHS, offering a clear academic pathway for continued professional development.

Employers of graduates span every sector of the Australian economy. High-demand employers include companies operating in mining, oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing, where workplace hazards are significant and legislative compliance requirements are stringent. Government agencies at federal, state, and local levels, hospitals and healthcare networks, infrastructure and engineering firms, and corporate organisations with large workforces are also major employers. OHS professionals are in demand across Australia, with the sector valued at over one and a half billion dollars and continuing to grow year on year.

Most Australian universities offering this Graduate Certificate require applicants to hold a recognised bachelor's degree, preferably in health, science, education, or a management-related discipline. However, many providers also accept applicants from any undergraduate background, provided they can demonstrate relevant professional or industry experience. For example, applicants with an AQF Level 5 qualification such as a Diploma of OHS combined with at least five years of appropriate professional experience may also be considered for entry. Some institutions require a minimum of two years of industry experience alongside a bachelor's degree in any field, while others with a strong practice focus may require significantly more, such as eight or more years of senior-level professional experience, assessed via submission of a CV and personal statement.

English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English. Typically, providers require a minimum IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0. Equivalent English proficiency may be demonstrated through completion of a bachelor's degree from an English-speaking country, successful completion of prior postgraduate study in Australia, or a minimum period of study in English-medium secondary or higher education. Some providers may also accept equivalent professional experience as evidence of English competency.

In special circumstances, applicants without formal qualifications may submit a case for entry based on demonstrated knowledge, experience, and skills likely to lead to success in the program. Many institutions also offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfer, which can reduce the total study load required for completion. All students are typically required to undertake an academic skills module at the commencement of the course to ensure readiness for postgraduate study.