Diploma of Leadership and Management

The Diploma of Leadership and Management at Canberra College of Management and Technology is a one-year qualification for people who want to step into a team leader or supervisor role, or who already hold one and want formal recognition of what they do. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it is a practical, job-focused qualification rather than a research degree. You will study how to manage people, plan and monitor operational work, lead teams through change, manage budgets and financial plans, and handle workplace relationships and conflict.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are usually delivered over two or three study periods a year, and you complete a set number of units of study, each carrying credit points. The exact unit list and credit point values are set by the college, so check the official course page for the current structure. Assessment is typically a mix of written tasks, case studies, role plays, group projects and practical workplace simulations. Some units may include a work placement or industry project where you apply leadership skills in a real organisation.

What you will learn

You will learn to develop and use emotional intelligence, manage personal and professional development, lead and facilitate a team, manage meetings, and implement operational plans. You will also cover risk management, workplace policy and procedures, and how to support innovation and continuous improvement. The focus is on the skills employers actually ask for: giving feedback, running a shift or a small department, solving problems, and keeping a team on track.

Who it suits

This diploma suits school leavers who want a fast route into a supervisory role, people already working in retail, hospitality, administration or logistics who want to move up, and international students looking for a one-year Australian qualification. International applicants need to meet English requirements, IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common standard for courses at this level, with TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and Cambridge C1 Advanced accepted as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after graduating you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register. Confirm all details on the official page before applying.

• Team Leader, retail, hospitality, logistics, customer service and office administration.
• Supervisor, manufacturing, warehousing, food processing and maintenance teams.
• Office Manager, small to medium businesses, professional services and government agencies.
• Operations Coordinator, scheduling, rostering and resource planning in service industries.
• Project Officer, supporting project delivery in construction, IT and community organisations.
• Frontline Manager, banking, insurance, call centres and public sector teams.
• Small Business Owner, managing staff, budgets and compliance for your own venture.