Course Overview

About This Course

Our fully online Graduate Certificate in Performance-Based Building & Fire Codes will see you progress your career and improve your knowledge of building surveying and design and approval of performance-based building, in light of national and international fire codes. Gain an in-depth understanding of key concepts and alternative frameworks for performance-based building in fire codes. Further your knowledge through the assessment of performance-based building design and application of fire codes that this course provides. Develop your professional skills and approach to performance-based codes including an appreciation of legal, statutory and design integrity requirements, as well as the need for design compliance.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

Victoria University City Campus, 364-378 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Completion of an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a similar discipline
OR Completion of an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in any discipline PLUS a minimum five (5) years approved work experience
A letter of recommendation and an interview may be required
If you are from a disadvantaged or underrepresented social, economic or cultural background, you may be eligible for one of our special admission programs
Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee entry into this course. Past academic performance may be considered

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this course, you'll be in high demand in the building industry. Become an expert in the approval process for performance-based building design and become familiar with the design concepts for fire safety systems, occupant safety and environmental sustainability. This course is specifically listed in the Building Regulations 2006 (S.R. No. 68/ 2006) - Regulation 113 as one of the prerequisites for a Relevant Building Surveyor (RBS) to determine that an alternative solution complies with a fire performance requirement of the Building Code of Australia (BCA). As a fire safety professional, you could gain employment in private business or the public sector, or work in the building industry. Many assessors and fire safety experts enjoy the benefits of self-employment and contracting. Job titles include: Unlimited Building Surveyor (additional requirement may be needed).

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units4 units

VQB5611

Risk Assessment and Human Behaviour

VQB5642

Performance Codes Methodology and Structure

VQB5612

Scientific Principles for Fire Professionals

VQB5641

Fire Safety Systems Design

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this course delivered and can I study part-time?

The course is delivered 100% online via the VU Block Model®. Instead of juggling several units at once, you'll complete two units over 8 weeks if studying full-time, or just one unit if studying part-time, in workshop-style classes.

What are the fees for this course?

The course is available as a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for eligible students. The indicative fee for a full-time student in 2026 is AU$4,768 per year. This is a guide only based on a typical full-time study load and does not include materials such as textbooks or the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). HELP loans may be available to eligible students.

Is this course recognised under the Building Regulations?

Yes, this course is specifically listed in the Building Regulations 2006 (S.R. No. 68/2006) - Regulation 113 as one of the prerequisites for a Relevant Building Surveyor (RBS) to determine that an alternative solution complies with a fire performance requirement of the Building Code of Australia (BCA).

Who teaches this course and what industry connections does it have?

Staff and associates include industry-expert professors from partners CSIRO, Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Victorian Building Authority and consulting engineering firms including Umow Lai, Noel Arnolds and Associates, SKIP consulting, Scientific Fire Services and many more.

Can I receive credit for previous study or work experience?

Yes, if you have completed study with another university or institution you may be eligible to receive credit for skills and past study. VU provides a credit calculator to help determine your eligibility. Units can be credited if they are part of the course structure, and credits relating to prior VU subjects are automatically granted.

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.

Upcoming Intakes

09 February 2026

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $60,000 to $75,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $75,000 to $110,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $110,000 to $150,000 per year

Career Paths

Building SurveyorUnlimited Building SurveyorFire Safety EngineerFire Protection EngineerFire Safety Assessor

Key Skills

Interpreting and applying the National Construction Code (NCC) and Building Code of Australia (BCA)Assessing and approving performance-based fire safety solutions and alternative designsEvaluating quantitative risk assessment models, including Expected Risk to Life (ERL) and Fire Cost Expectation (FCE)Understanding the physics and chemistry of ignition, fire growth, smoke movement, and fire extinguishmentDesigning and reviewing fire safety systems including sprinklers, alarms, suppression systems, and smoke control

Full Course Overview

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