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Graduate Diploma Geology Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Mining

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

003967J

CRICOS provider code

00301J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$49,740 total

Per year

A$49,740/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

Curtin University's Graduate Diploma in Mining is aimed at science and engineering graduates who want to gain specialised knowledge of mining and the minerals industry in Australia. The course covers essential aspects of geology, mine design, mineral processing, safety, environmental management, and mining economics. Students explore how mines are planned, developed, and managed, with units designed to develop both theoretical understanding and skills relevant to industry practice.

Classes are organised over one year of full-time study, typically split into two semesters. Each unit of study counts towards the total credit points required to complete the diploma, and the structure is designed so that students build up knowledge in key topics before tackling more complex mining challenges. There's a strong emphasis on practical skills, often through simulations, site visits, and industry-relevant assignments. This course suits those with a background in science, engineering, or related fields looking to move into the mining sector or deepen their existing skills.

Skills developed include technical knowledge of mining operations, safety risk management, environmental responsibility in mining, and a grasp of the business and regulatory aspects unique to Australia. The course benefits from Perth's location as a major centre for mining, with connections to key companies and government bodies. Students are encouraged to engage with industry guest speakers and may have access to practical activities or case studies linked to real mining projects.

International students can study this course on a student visa, with rights to work 48 hours per fortnight. Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Entry requirements include evidence of English proficiency, with further details and any changes best confirmed via the official course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.
International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

  • Mine planning engineer in the minerals sector
  • Mining operations supervisor
  • Consultant for mining projects and feasibility studies
  • Mine safety officer or risk assessor
  • Mining analyst for financial and investment firms
  • Roles in government agencies regulating mining

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Mining at Curtin University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$49,740 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Mine planning engineer in the minerals sectorMining operations supervisorConsultant for mining projects and feasibility studiesMine safety officer or risk assessorMining analyst for financial and investment firmsRoles in government agencies regulating mining

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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