Diploma of Marketing and Communication

The Diploma of Marketing and Communication at King's Own International College is a two-year qualification that sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework. You'll study the basics of marketing and how organisations talk to the people they want to reach. Expect units on consumer behaviour, market research, advertising, public relations, digital channels and professional writing. Assessment is usually a mix of assignments, group projects, presentations and exams, with credit points attached to each unit. The course runs over two years, typically split into semesters or trimesters. You'll need to check the official page for the exact unit list and structure, because it can change.

This is a vocational qualification, so the focus is on skills you can use in a workplace. You might work on a marketing plan for a real or simulated client, write press releases, build a social media schedule, or analyse campaign data. Some diplomas include a work placement or industry project, but you should confirm whether this one does. The college may have arrangements with local businesses, and if placement is part of the course, it's a chance to get Australian experience on your resume. The course is delivered in Australia, and international students study alongside domestic students.

While you study, your Student visa lets you work up to 48 hours per fortnight. That's enough to pick up part-time work in retail, hospitality or an office, which can help you build local contacts. 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 for a period. The exact length depends on your qualification and other factors, so check the Department of Home Affairs website. The diploma itself doesn't lead to a professional registration, but it can be a stepping stone to a bachelor degree with credit for your studies, if you want to keep going.

Who is this for? If you're starting out in marketing and want a practical qualification that gets you job-ready, this diploma fits. It also suits people already working in a related area who want formal recognition, or international students who want an Australian qualification without committing to a three-year degree. You'll need English proficiency: IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common standard for courses at this level, but the college may accept TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced or its own English programmes. The Student visa has its own English requirement set by the Department of Home Affairs. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. For exact entry requirements, unit details and start dates, go to the official course page.

• Marketing assistant, supporting campaigns, doing research and keeping marketing materials up to date. Hired by advertising agencies, small businesses and corporate marketing teams.
• Communications officer, writing newsletters, managing social media and helping with internal communications. Common in government, non-profits and large organisations.
• Digital marketing coordinator, running social media accounts, email marketing and basic analytics. Agencies, online retailers and startups hire for this role.
• Public relations assistant, drafting media releases, organising events and monitoring coverage. PR firms, hotels and event companies are typical employers.
• Sales and marketing support, helping sales teams with leads, customer data and promotional activities. Many industries need this, from real estate to manufacturing.
• Advertising account coordinator, liaising between clients and creative teams, keeping projects on track. Ad agencies and media companies are the main employers.