Diploma in Commerce Studies

The Diploma in Commerce Studies is a one-year qualification for students who want a grounding in commerce before moving into further study or entry-level work. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, below a bachelor degree, and is built around units of study in accounting and related business areas. You will cover the basics of financial accounting, business law, economics and quantitative methods, taught through lectures, tutorials and practical exercises. Assessment is a mix of exams, assignments and group work, and you will need to pass each unit to progress.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are usually delivered over two semesters or trimesters within a single year. You enrol in a set number of units each term, with each unit carrying credit points. The exact unit list and credit values are set by Adelaide University, so check the official course page for the current structure. There is no honours year attached to a diploma; if you later move into a bachelor degree, you may be able to get credit for some units you have completed, subject to the university's rules.

What you will actually study

Expect to learn how to prepare and interpret financial statements, apply basic accounting principles, understand the legal framework for business, and use spreadsheets and accounting software. You will also build skills in business communication, teamwork and problem-solving. These are the same core skills you would meet in the first year of a commerce degree, but packaged into a shorter qualification.

Who it suits and what comes next

This diploma suits recent school leavers who want a supported start to university study, people returning to study after a break, or students who need to meet the entry requirements for a bachelor degree. It also works for anyone who needs foundational commerce knowledge for a job. After finishing, you can apply for entry into a bachelor programme, often with credit, or look for work in entry-level accounting and business support roles. International students should note that this course is registered on CRICOS (code 115771A) and that the student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After you graduate, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances. English requirements for international applicants are typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall for this level, but always confirm the exact requirement and tuition fees on the official Adelaide University page and the CRICOS register.

• Accounts clerk or assistant accountant in small to medium businesses
• Bookkeeper or payroll officer
• Accounts payable/receivable officer
• Administration officer with a finance focus
• Customer service or sales support roles in banking, insurance or retail
• Further study: bachelor degree in commerce, accounting or business with credit