Diploma of Marketing and Communication

The Diploma of Marketing and Communication at IBN College is a practical, 1.5-year qualification for people who want to work in marketing, advertising, public relations or communications. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which means it's a shorter, job-focused alternative to a bachelor degree. You'll study core areas like consumer behaviour, market research, digital marketing, advertising, public relations and professional writing. Assessment is based on assignments, campaigns, presentations and exams rather than a single final test.

How the course is structured

The diploma is delivered over three or four study periods (semesters or trimesters) depending on the college's timetable. You'll complete a set of units of study, each with a credit point value, and you need to pass all required units to graduate. There's no honours year or thesis at this level. Some diplomas include a capstone unit where you pull together everything you've learned into a real or simulated marketing campaign. Work-integrated learning may be offered through industry projects, client briefs or a placement, but you should confirm the exact arrangements with IBN College.

What you'll actually learn

You'll learn how to plan and run marketing activities, write copy for different audiences, analyse campaign results, use social media and digital tools, and understand the legal and ethical rules that apply to advertising. Communication skills are built in: you'll practise pitching ideas, writing reports and working in teams. The diploma is taught in Australia, so you'll also get a feel for the local market and business culture.

Who it suits

This course suits school leavers who want a faster route into the workforce, people already working in marketing or communications who want a formal qualification, and international students looking for an Australian qualification that can lead to further study. On completion, you may get credit towards a bachelor degree at some Australian universities, but you'll need to check their policies. If you're an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. English requirements for this diploma are typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or an equivalent test, but confirm the exact score and any other entry requirements on the official CRICOS page or with IBN College directly.

• Marketing assistant or coordinator
• Digital marketing assistant
• Social media coordinator
• Advertising account coordinator
• Public relations assistant
• Communications officer
• Market research assistant
• Events assistant
• Content creator or copywriter

These roles are found across Australian industries including advertising agencies, public relations firms, media organisations, retail, tourism, not-for-profits, government departments and small businesses. The diploma gives you practical skills that employers look for in entry-level marketing and communications positions.