Graduate Diploma Biotechnology Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Food Science

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

041484B

CRICOS provider code

00116K

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$54,976 total

Per year

A$54,976/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Food Science at the University of Melbourne provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles of food science, with a focus on both theory and practical laboratory skills. Offered over one year of full-time study, this course is structured through a combination of units of study that total a specific number of credit points, allowing students to customise their learning in areas such as food chemistry, microbiology, processing, and food safety within the context of Australia’s dynamic food and biotechnology sectors.

Australian graduate diplomas are designed as intensive, postgraduate-level qualifications, commonly consisting of a series of taught units. This programme may include elements such as a capstone project or research component, facilitating hands-on engagement with real-world food science problems and helping students build strong analytical and laboratory skills. Where relevant, work-integrated learning or professional placements form part of the curriculum, linking classroom experience to industry practice.

Graduates develop in-demand skills in quality assurance, product development, food safety, and regulatory compliance, making them valuable to a broad range of employers. The programme is ideal for science graduates and professionals seeking to enter or advance in food science, biotechnology, or related sectors, as well as for international students interested in applying Australian scientific expertise around the globe.

Situated in Melbourne, a major hub for food manufacturing and research, the University of Melbourne offers students opportunities to engage with leading industry partners and research organisations. International students can access work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and may consider the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) for further employment in Australia post-graduation. Prospective applicants should confirm specific entry requirements, credit arrangements, and course details through the official university website.

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

Food technologist in food manufacturing and processing industries
Quality assurance officer within food production companies and regulatory bodies
Product development specialist in research and innovation teams
Food safety auditor in government or private sector organisations
Roles in biotechnology firms focused on food applications
Technical consultant for food supply and safety management

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Food Science at University of Melbourne?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$54,976 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Food technologist in food manufacturing and processing industriesQuality assurance officer within food production companies and regulatory bodiesProduct development specialist in research and innovation teamsFood safety auditor in government or private sector organisationsRoles i...

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