Graduate Diploma Social Work Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Community Development

at Murdoch University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

059720C

CRICOS provider code

00125J

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$36,730 total

Per year

A$36,730/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Community Development at Murdoch University builds practical and theoretical knowledge for people interested in working alongside communities and organisations. Students learn to understand community needs, facilitate local projects, and support grassroots engagement. The course explores participatory methods, social research, community planning, policy contexts and ethical practice, all in the context of contemporary social issues in Australia.

Structured over a full year, the diploma is typically completed across two semesters. It comprises several units of study, each with assigned credit points that contribute to the qualification. Students examine how social policy, planning and advocacy impact marginalised groups, and explore case studies relevant to communities in Western Australia and beyond. Professional engagement and group work often form part of assessments, supporting students in developing practical skills.

This qualification develops communication, critical thinking, project management and facilitation skills. It suits graduates from social sciences, education, health, or related fields wanting a focused qualification for roles that connect with communities or support social change. It can also benefit professionals updating their credentials or those considering more advanced study in community development or social work.

Murdoch has connections to local government, social service providers and non-profit organisations in Perth and across WA. Some units may include practical assessments or opportunities to build work-relevant experience, although extended placements are more typical of higher-level social work degrees. International students are able to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after completion, subject to Australian Government requirements. Refer to the official Murdoch University website for admission criteria, unit listings and the most up-to-date course information.

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

Community development officer in local councils or non-profits
Project coordinator for grassroots initiatives
Community engagement specialist
Policy officer in government or advocacy groups
Community program evaluator
Roles in migrant support services, Indigenous organisations and social enterprises throughout Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Community Development at Murdoch University?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$36,730 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Community development officer in local councils or non-profitsProject coordinator for grassroots initiativesCommunity engagement specialistPolicy officer in government or advocacy groupsCommunity program evaluatorRoles in migrant support services, Indigenous organisations and soc...

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