Diploma of Marketing and Communication

The Diploma of Marketing and Communication at Melbourne Polytechnic is a practical, 24-week course that gets you ready for work in marketing and communications. You'll study how to plan campaigns, write for different audiences, use digital channels, understand consumer behaviour, and measure what works. The focus is on doing the work, not just reading about it.

How the course is structured

This diploma is delivered over 24 weeks, which is shorter than a full year of study. Australian vocational qualifications like this are built from units of competency, each with a set number of credit points. You'll complete a mix of core and elective units, and assessment is based on tasks you'd actually do on the job: writing a marketing plan, creating content, analysing campaign results, and presenting your ideas. There may be a final project where you pull everything together, and some units include work placement or industry projects so you get real experience before you finish.

What you'll learn

You'll cover the basics of marketing and communication, then build on them. Expect to learn how to research markets, identify target audiences, develop communication strategies, use social media and other digital tools, and write clear, persuasive copy. You'll also look at how to work with clients and teams, manage projects, and apply legal and ethical standards. By the end, you should be able to put together a marketing plan and explain why you made the choices you did.

Who it's for

This course suits people who want to get into marketing or communications, or who already work in the area and want a formal qualification. It's also a good fit if you're looking for a shorter course that leads directly to a job, rather than a three-year bachelor degree. If you're an international student, you'll need to meet English requirements, usually IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an equivalent like TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic. The Student visa also has its own English rules set by the Department of Home Affairs. While you study, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition fees are listed on the CRICOS register. For exact details on units, credit points, and intake dates, check the official page.

• Marketing assistant or coordinator: Support marketing campaigns, manage social media, and help with events. Work in agencies, retail, not-for-profits, or corporate marketing teams.
• Communications officer: Write newsletters, press releases, and internal communications. Often based in government, education, or health organisations.
• Digital marketing assistant: Help run online advertising, email marketing, and content schedules. Many roles are in specialist digital agencies or in-house teams.
• Sales and marketing support: Provide admin and campaign support to sales teams, common in real estate, manufacturing, and professional services.
• Public relations assistant: Assist with media relations, client events, and reputation management, typically in PR agencies or large organisations.

These roles exist across Australia in advertising agencies, marketing departments, small businesses, and the public sector. The diploma gives you a credential that employers recognise and can lead to further study, such as a bachelor degree with credit for your completed units.