Diploma of Automotive Technology

The Diploma of Automotive Technology is a practical qualification for people who want to work on cars and light vehicles at a technician level, or who already work in the trade and want to move into a supervisory or specialist role. It is delivered by The Queensland Institute of Commerce and Technology in Queensland over 36 weeks. The course is listed on CRICOS (course code 102550K), so it is open to international students as well as domestic students.

What you study

This is a hands-on diploma. You learn how engines, transmissions, braking systems, steering and suspension, fuel and ignition systems and vehicle electrical and electronic systems work, and how to diagnose and repair faults in them. Expect a lot of time in a workshop, using the same diagnostic tools and equipment you would meet in a real service centre, alongside classroom work on the theory behind those systems. Assessment is competency-based: you have to actually perform the tasks to the industry standard, not just pass a written test.

How the qualification is structured

The Diploma of Automotive Technology sits at Level 5 on the Australian Qualifications Framework. It is made up of units of competency, each with a credit value, rather than traditional subjects. You need to complete all the required units, including the core ones and a set of electives that let you focus on areas such as light vehicle mechanical technology, vehicle body repair, or automotive electrical technology. The course runs for 36 weeks. Your training provider will confirm the exact units, credit points and any elective choices on the official course page.

Skills you gain

You finish with the ability to diagnose and repair complex faults, use scan tools and diagnostic software, read wiring diagrams and technical manuals, and work safely with high-voltage and other hazardous systems. You also build the workplace skills employers ask for: estimating job costs, ordering parts, keeping records, and explaining technical problems to customers in plain language. Some units cover supervising other technicians or running a small workshop, which is useful if you want to move up rather than just stay on the tools.

Who it suits

This diploma suits someone who wants a trade-level career in the automotive industry and prefers learning by doing. It also suits people already working as mechanics who want formal recognition of their skills and a pathway to a leading hand or workshop manager role. International students should check the English language requirement before applying. The published standard for this level is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an accepted equivalent such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Your training provider may also accept its own English programme. Remember that the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa, so you need to meet both. While you study, your visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight. 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. Confirm all details, including tuition, on the official CRICOS register and with the institute before you enrol.

• Automotive technician or mechanic in a dealership, independent workshop or fleet maintenance team
• Diagnostic technician specialising in engine management, electrical or transmission faults
• Workshop supervisor or leading hand
• Service advisor or parts interpreter
• Mobile mechanic or small business owner
• Automotive electrician (with additional licensing where required)
• Vehicle inspector or roadworthy tester (subject to state licensing)
• Roles with fleet operators, mining companies, or government vehicle workshops