Course Overview

About This Course

Embark on a journey of discovery and impact with the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability. You will dive deep into the fascinating world of sustainability, environmental science, and global change, equipping yourself with essential tools to address pressing global challenges. It has never been more important to act on sustainability issues, and the need for skilled professionals who can develop appropriate, cost-effective and targeted solutions is crucial for nurturing a brighter future. This course builds upon the foundation laid by the Graduate Certificate of Sustainability. Shape your learning experience by selecting from a range of elective study options, extending your knowledge in the key areas you are most passionate about – ensuring you build the skills for the career you want. From climate change to public health or the circular economy, be prepared with the specialist knowledge you need to make a tangible difference. Want your passion for sustainability to translate into real-world impact? The World Economic Forum expects the climate transition to generate 8 million new jobs by 2030 – driving growth in roles such as sustainability specialists and renewable energy technicians. Through hands-on activities and real-world projects, you will develop tools to measure and report on complex sustainability challenges. You will hone the skills required to identify, develop, and implement practical solutions to the complex problems facing increasingly resource-constrained societies. Deakin's state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment provide you with immersive learning experiences, including access to a geographic information systems lab, GPS wildlife tracking technology, and underwater vehicles for marine exploration. You may also have the opportunity to articulate into either the Master of Sustainability or the Master of Sustainability (Professional), further expanding your expertise and career prospects. Get ready to nurture a sustainable future and drive positive change in the world.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

Completion of a bachelor degree or higher
At least two years' relevant work experience (or part-time equivalent) — examples of relevant work experience include, but are not limited to, any aspect of environmental, social, and economic science, policy, and management
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements
English language proficiency: bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country; OR IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent; OR other evidence of English language proficiency
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances
Meeting minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements does not guarantee admission

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Once you graduate, you will be well positioned to seek employment as a sustainability officer, analyst, manager, or consultant for government, non-government organisations, or in the private sector. Businesses across all industries are looking to implement sustainable practices and are actively seeking professionals with the necessary skills to help drive action. A career in sustainability is a chance to make a real impact – to solve some of the most complex challenges of our time, and to engage in something meaningful.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units22 units

DAI001

Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin

0 credit point compulsory unit, completed in first study period

STP710

Career Tools for Employability

0 credit point compulsory unit

SLE761

Professional Research Practice

Core unit

SLE756

Sustainability in the Anthropocene

Core unit

SLE757

Environmental Science and Global Change

Core unit

SLE720

Risk Assessment and Control

Course elective — Environmental Management

SLE715

Circular Economy

Course elective — Environmental Management

SLE716

Environmental Protection

Course elective — Environmental Management

SLE725

Environmental Management Systems

Course elective — Environmental Management

HSH701

Principles and Practice of Public Health

Course elective — Health and Environment

HSH703

Health Promotion

Course elective — Health and Environment

HMC703-OD

Promoting Human and Planetary Health

Course elective — Health and Environment (0.5 credit points, microcredential)

HSH736

Community Consultation and Participation

Course elective — Health and Environment

HSH728

Health Equity and Human Rights

Course elective — Health and Environment

MMC706-OD

Change tools

Course elective — Health and Environment (0.5 credit points, microcredential)

MMC705-OD

Innovation and leadership

Course elective — Health and Environment (0.5 credit points, microcredential)

SLE740

Climate Change, Adaptation and Mitigation

Course elective — Sustainable Regional Development

SLE741

Regional Development Economics for Sustainability

Course elective — Sustainable Regional Development

SLE742

Systems Thinking for Sustainability and Resilience

Course elective — Sustainable Regional Development

SLE743

Spatial Analysis and Geographic Information Systems

Course elective — Sustainable Regional Development

SLE763

Research Project Planning

Course elective — Professional studies

SLE767

Industry Practice Planning

Course elective — Professional studies

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability at Deakin?

To be considered for admission, you will need either a completed bachelor degree or higher, or at least two years' relevant work experience (or part-time equivalent) in areas such as environmental, social, and economic science, policy, and management. You must also meet English language proficiency requirements, which can be demonstrated through a bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country, an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0), or other approved evidence. A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.

How much does the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability cost?

The estimated tuition fee for a full-fee paying place is $34,800 for 1 year full-time. For students in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), the estimated tuition fee is $9,538 for 1 year full-time. You may be eligible for a Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loan, including FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP, depending on your course, fee place type, and citizenship or residency status. Deakin alumni may also be eligible for a 10% discount on enrolment fees per unit.

Can I progress to a Master's degree after completing this Graduate Diploma?

Yes. Upon completion of the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability, you can use the credit points you've earned to enter into the Master of Sustainability (S727) or the Master of Sustainability (Professional) (S728). Students intending to articulate into the Master of Sustainability are recommended to choose course elective units from within the same group of units, and choose either SLE763 Research Project Planning or SLE767 Industry Practice Planning if they wish to take the research or industry practice pathway.

Is the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability professionally accredited?

Yes, the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability is professionally accredited by the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ). As a student of this course, you are encouraged to apply for EIANZ student membership and connect with the professional network that can support your future career as an environmental professional.

When can I start the Graduate Diploma of Sustainability and where is it available?

The course is available in two intakes: Trimester 1 starting in March and Trimester 2 starting in July. Both intakes are available at the Burwood (Melbourne) campus and online. Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close on 21 June 2026.

Application

How to Apply

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Step 02

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Step 03

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Graduate Diploma of Sustainability

About This Course

Entry Requirements

Where this takes you

Accreditation & Migration

Units of Competency

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Apply

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