Diploma of Business and Technology

The Diploma of Business and Technology at ASA Institute of Higher Education is a one-year qualification that sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). It's a practical starting point for students who want to work at the intersection of business operations and technology, or who plan to use it as a pathway into further study. You'll cover the basics of how organisations run, management, marketing, finance, customer service, alongside the digital tools and systems that support them. Expect units on business communication, spreadsheets and databases, project work, and an introduction to how technology is used in day-to-day business operations.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are typically delivered over two or three study periods (semesters or trimesters) across one year of full-time study. Each unit carries a set number of credit points, and you'll need to complete the required units to graduate. The course is built around units of study, not subjects in the school sense, and assessment is usually a mix of assignments, tests, group projects and practical tasks. Some diplomas include a work-integrated learning component, such as a placement or industry project, where the field expects it. At diploma level, that might mean a simulated workplace project or a short placement with a local business. Check the official course page for the exact unit list and any placement requirements.

What you'll learn

You'll finish with skills in business planning, teamwork, problem-solving and using common business software. You'll learn to write reports, analyse basic financial information, manage small projects and understand how technology supports business functions like records management, customer relationships and online sales. The focus is on applied skills you can use in an office or small business from day one. Class sizes are usually smaller than in a bachelor degree, and teaching is often more hands-on.

Who it suits

This diploma suits school leavers who want a shorter qualification before entering the workforce, career changers looking for a business and tech grounding, and international students who need an Australian qualification to apply for a post-study work visa. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream is available to eligible diploma graduates, though the rules change, always confirm current requirements with the Department of Home Affairs. While you study, your student visa lets you work up to 48 hours per fortnight once your course has started. English requirements are IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or an accepted equivalent; the Student visa has its own separate English threshold. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 108861B. For exact fees, start dates and unit details, check the official ASA Institute page or the CRICOS listing.

• Business administrator, supporting office operations, scheduling and record-keeping in small to medium businesses, government agencies and not-for-profits.
• Customer service officer, handling enquiries and complaints in retail, banking, telecommunications or local government.
• Project support officer, assisting project managers with documentation, scheduling and reporting in construction, IT or events.
• Sales support, preparing quotes, processing orders and maintaining customer databases.
• Junior data or records officer, entering, checking and maintaining business information in spreadsheets and database systems.
• Pathway to further study, many graduates continue into a bachelor degree with credit for their diploma units.

Industries that hire diploma graduates include retail, professional services, government administration, health administration, education support, and technology services. In Australia, these roles are common in both capital cities and regional centres. Some positions may require additional checks, such as a police clearance or working with children check, depending on the employer.