Diploma of Marketing and Communication

The Diploma of Marketing and Communication is a 1.5-year qualification at Macquarie English, Macquarie Institute, listed on the CRICOS register under course code 105960A. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which puts it below a bachelor degree but above a certificate IV. That matters if you are weighing up pathways: a diploma gives you a recognised tertiary qualification in its own right, and many Australian institutions allow credit toward a bachelor degree if you decide to keep studying. Credit is measured in units of study and credit points, and how much you receive depends on the institution and the units you have completed.

What you study

Marketing and communication diplomas in Australia typically cover the practical side of the trade: consumer behaviour, campaign planning, content and copy, digital channels, brand messaging, market research, and the reporting that tells you whether any of it worked. You will spend time writing for different audiences, building campaign plans, and presenting ideas. Assessment leans on projects and portfolios rather than exams alone, which suits people who learn by doing. Delivery is usually semester or trimester based, with each unit carrying a set number of credit points. Confirm the exact unit list, structure and any capstone or final project on the official page, because those details vary between providers and change from time to time.

Work-integrated learning

Marketing is a field that uses work-integrated learning, so expect some form of practical component, a simulated agency project, a client brief, or a placement with a business or not-for-profit. This is where you find out what a real campaign deadline feels like and build something you can show an employer. If placement is part of your course, the provider will explain the hours, the host organisations and what you need to arrange yourself.

Who it suits

This diploma suits school leavers who want a shorter, job-focused qualification before committing to a full degree, career changers moving into marketing or communications, and people already working in admin, sales or media who want formal recognition of what they do. International students should note the Student visa work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After you finish, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available depending on your circumstances and the current rules. English requirements are set out on the official page, IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 is the common standard for coursework at this level, with TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the institution's own English programmes accepted as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the visa itself. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register, so check there for the current figure.

• Marketing coordinator, running campaigns, scheduling content and keeping projects on track for agencies, retailers and service businesses.
• Digital marketing assistant, social media, email, search and paid ads, with reporting on what performed.
• Communications officer, internal and external messaging for government, education, health and not-for-profits.
• Content producer, writing and editing copy, newsletters, blogs and social posts.
• Events and promotions assistant, coordinating launches, activations and sponsorship activity.
• Sales and account support, client liaison and campaign support in media, advertising and tech firms.

Hiring industries in Australia include advertising and media agencies, retail and e-commerce, tourism and hospitality, professional services, government departments, education providers, and the community and not-for-profit sector.