Course Overview

About This Course

If you're a professional aiming to enhance your expertise, the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development will prepare you to lead sustainability initiatives within organisations, communities, and industries. This postgraduate sustainability degree offers a comprehensive exploration of sustainability principles and practices, equipping you to address complex environmental challenges and promote sustainable development across various sectors. The course covers key themes in environmental sustainability, including climate change adaptation, sustainable resource management, and environmental policy. You will also explore broader aspects of sustainability, such as social equity, economic viability, and governance frameworks. You will gain critical skills and knowledge through interdisciplinary coursework and case studies to develop and implement effective sustainability strategies. You will graduate with the skills, knowledge and capability to integrate sustainable practices into your professional roles, drive positive environmental outcomes, and contribute to the broader goals of sustainable development. The Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development is ideal as a standalone postgraduate qualification in sustainable development or as a stepping stone towards advanced studies in sustainability such as CQU's Master of Sustainable Development.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

Level 1-6, 120 Spencer St, Melbourne, VIC 3000

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Find out more about Entry Requirements, including English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements for this course.
While not needed to apply, you'll need to meet Inherent Requirements throughout your studies. You must meet these to successfully complete your studies and participate in this profession.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development you will be equipped for mid-level roles such as sustainability consultant, project manager, or community engagement officer. You'll have the opportunity to work in areas like environmental management, urban planning, or corporate social responsibility, where you can lead sustainability initiatives and drive organisational change.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units8 units

DSMG20003

Research for Emergency and Disaster Management

DSMG28001

Foundations of Emergency and Disaster Management

DSMG29003

Building Adaptive Capacity with Communities

DSMG29005

Community Safety and Education

DSMG29006

Volunteerism and the Community

EVST28001

Climate Change: Risk and Assessments

GEOG28001

Applied Demography: Trends and Policies

MGMT20132

Innovation and Sustainable Business Development

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development?

The Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development takes 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time to complete.

How much does the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development cost?

The indicative first-year fee for a Full Fee Paying (FFP) place is $33,300 (2026 indicative). Fees are reviewed each year and are subject to change. You may also be eligible for FEE-HELP, an Australian Government loan scheme that helps eligible students pay their tuition fees.

Can I study the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development online?

Yes, the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development is available both online and on campus in Melbourne, giving you flexible study options to suit your needs.

Can the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development lead to further study?

Yes, the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development is ideal as a standalone postgraduate qualification or as a stepping stone towards advanced studies in sustainability such as CQU's Master of Sustainable Development.

How many units do I need to complete for the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development?

You must complete eight units (48 credits) to complete the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Development, choosing eight electives from the units listed in the course structure.

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!

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 $95,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $95,000 to $125,000 per year

Career Paths

Sustainability OfficerEnvironmental ConsultantSustainability AdvisorEnvironmental Policy OfficerClimate Change Analyst

Key Skills

Critical analysis of sustainability policies, frameworks, and international agreementsEnvironmental impact assessment (EIA) and sustainability reportingClimate change adaptation and mitigation planningStakeholder engagement, consultation, and community participationSustainable resource and land management

Full Course Overview

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