Diploma of Science

La Trobe University

CRICOS Institution Code 00115M

Duration

52 weeks

Delivery

Multi-Modal

Study Load

Full-time or part-time

Intakes

Semester 1 (March 2027), Semester 2 (July 2027)

Course Overview

About This Course

La Trobe's Diploma of Science is a supported pathway into the Bachelor of Science – or the qualification you need to kickstart a career in entry-level roles in the science industry.

Explore basic scientific concepts and learn how to harness collaboration in the laboratory. Consolidate your new knowledge and skills through practical, laboratory-based classes where you'll have opportunities for hands-on experience. And build skills in scientific communication – an essential skill for sharing outcomes with different audiences.

Already know where you want to steer your career? Our wide range of electives allow you to take specialist subjects right away. Depending on your campus, choose from biochemistry, zoology, physics, molecular biology, data science and more.

You'll learn alongside Bachelor's students in the same subjects, while you map out your transition to further university study. Depending on your subject selection, after successfully completing your Diploma you can transfer directly into the second year of La Trobe's Bachelor of Science. That's all thanks to the one year's worth of course credit (also called advanced standing) you could receive for the subjects you study in your Diploma.

We'll be with you every step of the way. Receive tailored advice from a dedicated Senior Support Adviser and connect with discipline-based peer mentors. We'll help you enrol, choose your subjects and navigate university systems and requirements. You can also access La Trobe's Careers Service to help you shape your future.

You'll learn:

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

Plenty Rd, Bundoora, Melbourne, Victoria 3086

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Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Provider's Published Fee

A$9,859

Duration

52 weeks

Intakes

Semester 1 (March 2027), Semester 2 (July 2027)

Study Mode

Full-time or part-time

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic students:

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

VCE: Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics. Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.

Higher education, VET and work/life experience applicants

Subject proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency equivalent to stated Year 12 prerequisites.

Additional selection information

Applicants can complete and submit a Personal Statement if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work or community experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice if you:
- are not currently studying an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent)
- have no prior secondary school (Year 12), VET studies, HE studies or relevant work experience that can be considered for entry, or
- do not meet the minimum academic requirements for the program. Refer to the La Trobe University STAT page page for further information.
Applicants seeking consideration via Work Recognition must complete all requirements listed on the La Trobe University Work Recognition webpage and submit a Personal Statement, including relevant work experience and reasons for applying for this course.
Applicants who have undertaken studies in a language other than English must demonstrate that they have achieved the required minimum scores in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Academic) or equivalent. Refer to Language requirements for further information.
A study score of 20 in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, any LOTE, Physics or Psychology equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.

International students:

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics.

Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.

English language requirements

6.0 IELTS (Academic) with no individual band less than 6.0.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Diploma of Science can pursue a range of science-related career paths with further study.

Possible roles include:

Laboratory assistant
- Handle specimens, perform basic analysis techniques, maintain equipment and ensure laboratory processes are followed.
Science communicator
- Promote scientific achievements to a wide range of audiences, including in university, government and media settings.
Laboratory technician
- Undertake sampling, testing and data entry, collect and report results, and calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

VRQA / ASQA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units4 units

LTU0AIM

Academic Integrity Module

ABS0WOM

Wominjeka La Trobe: Indigenous Cultural Literacy for Higher Education

SCI1LUE

Big Ideas in Science: Life, the Universe and Everything

STM1001

Making Sense of Data

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Diploma of Science at La Trobe University?

The Diploma of Science at La Trobe University is a pathway program that allows students to gain entry to a range of Bachelor courses by completing a La Trobe Diploma.

How can the Diploma of Science help me progress to a Bachelor degree?

According to La Trobe University, the Diploma is designed as an early entry and pathway program, enabling students to secure a pathway into undergraduate Bachelor courses within the university.

Is La Trobe University a registered higher education provider?

Yes, La Trobe University is a registered Australian University with TEQSA provider number PRV12132 and CRICOS Provider number 00115M, making it a recognised and accredited institution.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Typical Salary (AUD)

Entry-level (0-2 years)$47,000 – $60,000/yr

Early Career (2-5 years)$60,000 – $75,000/yr

Mid-Level (5-10 years)$75,000 – $95,000/yr

Career Paths

Laboratory Assistant
Laboratory Technician
Field Research Assistant
Environmental Monitoring Officer
Environmental Field Technician

Key Skills

Laboratory techniques and safe handling of scientific equipment
Scientific data collection, recording, and analysis
Critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning
Academic writing and scientific report preparation
Research skills including literature review and referencing

Full course overview

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