Advanced Diploma of Marketing and Communication

The Advanced Diploma of Marketing and Communication is a practical, one-and-a-half-year qualification for people who want to work in marketing and communications in Australia. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), so it's shorter and more hands-on than a bachelor degree, which normally takes three years. You'll study units of study with credit points across semesters or trimesters, covering areas like consumer behaviour, marketing research, advertising, digital marketing, public relations, and campaign planning. The course usually includes a capstone project where you pull everything together, and may offer work-integrated learning through industry placements or projects with real clients. Because it's an advanced diploma, you'll focus on job-ready skills rather than theory for its own sake.

Assessment is typically a mix of assignments, presentations, group work, and exams. You'll learn to write marketing plans, analyse market data, create content for different channels, manage social media, and measure campaign performance. Communication skills are central: you'll practise pitching ideas, writing for various audiences, and working in teams. The course is taught in English, and international students need to meet English requirements. The common standard for courses at this level is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or equivalent TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge C1 Advanced. The Department of Home Affairs also sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa, so check both.

This qualification suits people who want to get into marketing quickly, upskill, or change careers. It's also a pathway to further study: you may get credit towards a bachelor degree, reducing the time it takes to complete. If you're an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and after you finish you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. The course is registered on CRICOS (code 114480J), so it's available to international students. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. For exact details on units, credit points, semester structure, and entry requirements, always check the official page.

• Marketing assistant or coordinator
• Digital marketing assistant
• Social media coordinator
• Communications officer
• Public relations assistant
• Advertising account coordinator
• Market research assistant
• Event marketing assistant

These roles are found across Australian industries including retail, tourism, government, not-for-profits, education, and professional services. Many graduates start in assistant or coordinator positions and move into specialist or management roles with experience.