Diploma of Business
Open the door to Australia’s #1 Business school.*
Diploma of Business
Your key to Australia’s #1 Business school.*
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Domestic
International
A UNSW College Diploma of Business is your direct pathway to UNSW Sydney – Australia's most employable university.^
It only takes 12-months to gain the skills, confidence and knowledge to move into the second year of your Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW Sydney. You’ll be supported every step of the way with smaller classes, a focused curriculum that mirrors the first year of the degree, and personalised support as you need it. This Diploma will ensure you’re equipped to thrive in whichever major you choose.
Launch your future in business with a qualification that sets a strong foundation for your success.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025
^ AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025
The UNSW College Diploma of Business is a supportive 12-month program that builds your foundational skills and knowledge, so you can confidently progress into the second year of the Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW Sydney.
If you need more support but do not want to add extra time to your degree, the Diploma is a great pathway. If you just missed out on direct entry into the Bachelor of Commerce, or hold qualifications not recognised by UNSW Sydney, the Diploma pathway could be the best option for you.
* QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025
Intakes
January, May, August*
Duration
12 months (3 terms)
Weekly class time
Approximately 20-25 hours
Progression
Second Year, Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW Sydney
Delivery mode
On-campus
CRICOS Code
113045C^
*For full details on intakes, please view Key dates.
^Prior to August 2024, this program was delivered as Diploma in Business, CRICOS Course Code 102394F.
Your journey with a Diploma program
Your journey with a Diploma Program
- Overview
- Progress to UNSW Sydney
- Program structure
- Entry requirements
- Key dates
- Fees
Who is this program for?
We designed our Diplomas for students who narrowly missed out on direct entry to UNSW Sydney, offering a supportive pathway to academic success and university life.
Our programs offer:
- First-year degree curriculum: Your Diploma will cover the same learning as the UNSW first year degree. We’ve developed the content in collaboration with UNSW Sydney, and you’ll have access to the same world-renowned facilities and resources as undergraduate students.
- Personalised attention: You’ll learn in small classes (around 20 students) and get up to 20% more teaching time than first year at UNSW Sydney.
- Tailored support: With access to weekly tutor sessions, interactive study clubs, leadership development opportunities, and wellbeing programs, you can build a strong foundation for success to help you thrive.
Why study business at UNSW Sydney?
UNSW Sydney is ranked #1 in Australia and #35 globally for Business and Management Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025), offering innovative courses in accounting, finance, management and marketing. Students graduate equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead with confidence in an ever-evolving global economy.
The Bachelor of Commerce offers you the choice of a range of industry-relevant majors and will empower you to manage people and drive change. By studying at a global top 20 university (QS World University Rankings, 2026), you have the opportunity to make lifelong connections that can benefit your career here in Australia and abroad.
Industry experts and leading academics guide your learning experiences ensuring you reach your potential. Coupled with exclusive career opportunities via Career Accelerator, you will be continually challenged, supported and engaged. And with over 330 student clubs and societies to choose from, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow your social circle and have new experiences.
Who is this program for?
Our supportive Diplomas are an excellent pathway for international students, helping you build the skills and confidence needed for university life.
Our programs support your learning with:
- smaller classes and at least 20% extra teaching time
- additional English and academic skill support
- course material equivalent to first year courses within UNSW Sydney degrees, and
- access to the same world-class facilities and resources as undergraduate students
With an innovative first year equivalent curriculum, you’ll learn how to recognise and analyse current global business opportunities and challenges, preparing you for further study in business and commerce.
Why study business at UNSW Sydney?
UNSW Sydney is ranked #1 in Australia and #35 globally for Business and Management Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025), offering innovative courses in accounting, finance, management and marketing. Students graduate equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead with confidence in an ever-evolving global economy.
The Bachelor of Commerce offers you the choice of a range of industry-relevant majors and will empower you to manage people and instigate innovative change. By studying at a top 20 global university* you have the opportunity to make lifelong connections that can benefit your career here in Australia and abroad.
Industry experts and leading academics guide your learning experiences ensuring you reach your potential. Coupled with exclusive career opportunities via Career Accelerator, you will be continually challenged, supported and engaged. And with over 330 student clubs and societies to choose from, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow your social circle and have new experiences.
*QS World University Rankings, 2026.
Career opportunities
- Accountant
- AI integration specialist
- AI strategy consultant
- Brand manager
- Business analyst
- Consultant
- Economist
- Financial adviser
- HR consultant
- Investment banker
- Social media manager
- Start-up founder
- Strategist
- Tax adviser
Your future at UNSW
Once you successfully complete your Diploma of Business (and meet the entry requirements), you will progress directly to second year of your Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW Sydney.
You will have the option to choose from the following majors:
- Accounting
- Behavioural economics
- Business analytics
- Business economics
- Business sustainability and social impact
- Cybersecurity management
- Finance
- Financial technology
- Human resource management
- Information systems
- Innovation, strategy and entrepreneurship
- International business
- Marketing
- Marketing analytics
- Taxation
Note: Diploma of Business students must achieve a pass for all courses (with an overall average of 60%), to progress to second year of the Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW. If you wish to study a major not on this list, you may be eligible to receive credit for courses that are common.
Your future at UNSW
Once you successfully complete your Diploma of Business (and meet the entry requirements), you will gain direct entry into the second year of the Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW Sydney.
You will have the option to choose from the following majors:
- Accounting
- Behavioural economics
- Business analytics
- Business economics
- Cybersecurity management
- Finance
- Financial technology
- Human resource management
- Information systems
- Innovation, strategy and entrepreneurship
- International business
- Marketing
- Marketing analytics
- Taxation
Note: Diploma of Business students must achieve a Satisfactory Grade (equivalent to IELTS 7.0) for the Communication and Academic Literacy course and a minimum pass for all other courses (with an overall average of 60%), to progress to second year of the undergraduate degree, Bachelor of Commerce, at UNSW Sydney. If you wish to study a major not on this list, you may be eligible to receive credit for courses that are common.
Top 20
Worldwide
QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
Most
Employable Graduates
AFR Top100 Future leaders Award, 2020-2025
Best
Australian university for entrepreneurs
Crunchbase venture capital start-up data, 2021
Program structure
As a Diploma student, you will learn the fundamentals before specialising and focusing on your future studies at UNSW Sydney.
With first year equivalent course content and equal learning outcomes, you will be fully prepared to enter the second year of your Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW Sydney, where you will choose your major.
For more information on each major, see below.
Program structure
As a Diploma student, you will build a strong foundation by studying courses equivalent to first year undergraduate study at UNSW Sydney.
You will also receive additional academic and English support to develop the skills needed to succeed, giving you the confidence to enter second year at UNSW Sydney. From there, you will choose your major.
For more information on each major, see below.
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What is accounting?
Accounting is not just about crunching numbers. Accountants seek to improve the economic wealth and welfare of shareholders, employees, customers, suppliers, governments and the community with their business recommendations. This major allows you to learn to advise on business performance by identifying, analysing and communicating relevant financial and non-financial decisions.
Accounting Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
-
What is behavioural economics?
Behavioural economics is the subfield of economics that applies insights about human decision-making as it departs from classical economic models to individual choices and business and policy scenarios. Behavioural economists are employed in consultancies, governments, and corporations worldwide to understand, model, and predict choices in complex settings. The increasing real-world relevance of behavioural economics is exemplified in the creation of BETA (Behavioural Economics Team in Australia) teams at the Commonwealth and state levels in Australia and similar teams in governments overseas. In this major you will take specific experimental and behavioural courses, and (optionally) courses drawn from other related disciplines, to craft a program of study to suit the applications of most interest to you.
Behavioural economics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is business analytics?
A major in business analytics enables you to become business problem solver and a key aspect of the decision-making process. You will be equipped with the skills needed to produce and communicate actionable findings and insights from organisational data through descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics. Along with statistical modelling, programming and database management, this major has an emphasis on the ethical and legal issues of data governance, giving graduates a holistic framework to span the bridge between business problem owners and technical experts.
Business analytics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is business economics?
Business economists study the cause and effect of unemployment and inflation, economic growth and development, income inequality, public policy, and environmental management. Collecting and calibrating data, economists make recommendations to Commonwealth and state government departments, international organisations (such as OECD), or the private sector.
Business economics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
-
What is cybersecurity management?
Cybersecurity Management is designed for undergraduate students in the Business School who are interested in developing a deep understanding of the key principles and practices of cybersecurity management. This major provides students with a broad range of skills and knowledge necessary to address the complex challenges facing organisations in today's rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Cybersecurity management Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is finance?
Finance students study the financial and capital markets as well as working with global banks, multinational corporations or the stock exchange in a career as rewarding as it is challenging. Finance can be a high risk, high reward industry requiring decisive strategy in the face of uncertainty. Determining the value of assets, and making investment and corporate financing decisions, requires sound and confident risk-hedging strategies.
Finance Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is financial technology?
Financial technology (fintech) is used to create, enhance and disrupt financial services, from peer-to-peer lending and robo-advice to decentralised finance, such as Bitcoin. By identifying the demands of industry, fintech sits at the forefront of industry needs, developing highly employable graduates. Over the past few years this field attracted large specialised industry conferences and dedicated sessions in top academic finance conferences. This major is a great way to get in at the ground floor of this industry.
Financial technology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is human resource management?
Human resource management explores the business of people. Staff are a company's most valuable asset, making the human resources manager a critical position in any public or private organisation. A human resource management major you will develop strategic thinking in employee engagement, employment relations, organisational change, staff learning and development, health and safety, organisational behaviour, and performance management.
Human resource management Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is information systems?
The information systems major is tailored to students who are interested in business and management aspects of the discipline. As an information systems innovator, you will shape the technology that fuels this economy. Information systems graduates work with social media, business databases, business intelligence systems, networks and infrastructure to support business operations.
Information systems Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is innovation, strategy & entrepreneurship?
Innovation profoundly impacts and transforms business and society. It drives productivity, competitive advantage, differentiation, growth, profitability and sustainability. The innovation, strategy & entrepreneurship major is designed to help you meet the challenges of innovation with tangible leadership skills that you can use to make a difference and shape the future of organisations. In this major, you will learn how to uncover new opportunities, discover actionable insights for innovation, and design strategies for business models that create, capture and deliver value. You will enhance your entrepreneurship skills through the practice of experimentation, persistence, resilience, management and leadership.
Innovation, strategy & entrepreneurship Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is international business?
International business is a rapidly growing field of study dealing with the development, strategy and management of multinational enterprises. In International business you will learn to skilfully manoeuvre through the complex world of highly competitive international markets. You will master the art of managing multinationals as you craft strategies that consider the economic, social, legal, political and cultural contexts of global business. The international business major will prepare you for a career managing the operations of the world’s largest international enterprises.
International business Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is marketing?
Marketing is essential to every business in today’s highly competitive marketplace. It is a dynamic function aimed at creating differentiation and competitive advantage for a company. The marketer’s role is to identify and understand the needs and wants of consumers; determine which sections of a market the business will target; design appropriate products, services and programs; develop communication to promote and publicise the goods and or services of a business; and determine the most effective way to deliver the offerings.
Marketing Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
-
What is marketing analytics?
Marketing analytics is the practice of collecting, managing, and analysing consumer and performance data to maximise the effectiveness and efficiency of marketing decisions. The Marketing Analytics major at UNSW focuses on the emerging needs of data-driven decision making for marketing optimisation and equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to collect and analyse consumer data to make informed marketing decisions.
Marketing analytics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
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What is taxation?
A major in taxation delves into the intricate system of legislation and policy that requires highly shrewd business professionals to navigate its complexity. Every individual, private enterprise and government agency interacts with the taxation system, making tax experts highly sought after in every aspect of our economy.
Taxation Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your First Year at UNSW College below.
- Business Decision Making
- Evidence Based Problem Solving
- Collaboration and Innovation in Business
- Financial Management
- Global Business Environments
- Organisational Resources
- Value Creation
- Data, Insights and Decisions
- Communication & Academic Literacy (CAL)
Domestic
International
The Diploma is designed specifically for international students as a potential pathway to study at UNSW Sydney - before you start a Diploma, you must meet the required English language proficiency and specific academic entry requirements.
For more information on entry requirements, view the Diploma and UEEC entry requirements - requirements provided should be considered as a guide only and are subject to change.
In addition to academic and English requirements, some Diploma programs require specific subject minimum grade requirements and assumed knowledge depending on your intended program.
Diploma of Business
Assumed knowledge – Mathematics
If you don’t meet the academic entry requirements for a Diploma, you can complete a Foundation Studies program first.
If you need help meeting the English language requirements, you could complete the University English Entry Course (UEEC) before starting your Diploma.
Academic calendars
The academic calendar consists of important dates throughout your study period such as Orientation, census dates, study weeks, exam weeks and breaks for your program or course of study.
Academic calendars
The academic calendar consists of important dates throughout your study period such as Orientation, census dates, study weeks, exam weeks and breaks for your program or course of study.
Domestic
International
Diploma fees
2025 tuition fees
A$38,016
Diploma of Business
Total Units of Credit: 48
Courses to complete: 8*
| Course Code | Course Name | Units of Credit | EFTSL | Fee |
| BMGT1300 | Business Decision Making | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1310 | Evidence Based Problem Solving | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1320 | Collaboration and Innovation in Business | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1340 | Financial Management | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1350 | Global Business Environments | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1370 | Organisational Resources | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1380 | Value Creation | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BMGT1390 | Data, Insight and Decisions | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| AELC1304 | Communication and Academic Literacy 4* | 0 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
Financial assistance in the form of FEE-HELP may be available. FEE-HELP is a loan from the Australian Government that helps eligible students defer repayments for all or part of their tuition fee. For more information, refer to FEE-HELP.
Please note: This information is provided as a general guide and applies to full-fee paying domestic students.
If you are a domestic student who received a slipback offer to study a UNSW Diploma under the Gateway Admissions Pathway, these fees do not apply. Please refer to this page for more information: 
Gateway Admissions Pathway | UNSW College.
Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF)
The Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF) is payable when you enrol in a Diploma Program. The fee covers non-academic services including counselling, career and financial advice, health and food services, sports activities and more.
Full-time: $121.66/term
Part-time: $87.75/term
Note: Domestic students commencing their Diploma studies in May 2025 will not be charged SSAF for their first term of studies.
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The program tuition fee that is quoted on your Letter of Offer is indicative and takes into account a range of factors such as:
- The calendar year in which you undertake your study in the course. For example, you may have commenced your Diploma in 2025, however you may undertake courses in 2026.
- Studying elective courses outside of your main program area. For example you may be enrolled in the Diploma of Business however you may have undertaken an elective unit from the Diploma of Media and Communication.
- Potential course variations to your Diploma studies.
Fees are reviewed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed, so it’s important to remember that indicative tuition fees shown above are not guaranteed. Any update to fees is effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are for tuition only – other fees and charges are not included.
When you enrol into new courses in your subsequent study terms at UNSW College, a fee statement will be generated in myUNSW indicating the precise tuition fee amount that you will need to pay.
Diploma fees
2025 tuition fees
A$47,760
2026 tuition fees
A$54,540
| Course | 2025 Indicative Fees Per Course ($AUD) | 2026 Indicative Fees Per Course ($AUD) | Courses to complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business | $5,250 | $6,060 | 8 |
| Communications and Academic Literacy (CAL) | $5,760 | $6,060 | 1 |
Communications and Academic Literacy (CAL) must be completed as part of each Diploma Program.
For additional information on our fees and other non-tuition fees, please see the Fees page.
-
The program tuition fee that is quoted on your Letter of Offer is indicative and takes into account a range of factors such as:
- The calendar year in which you undertake your study in the course. For example, you may have commenced your Diploma in 2025, however you may undertake courses in 2026.
- Studying elective courses outside of your main program area. For example you may be enrolled in the Diploma of Business however you may have undertaken an elective unit from the Diploma of Media and Communication.
- Potential course variations to your Diploma studies.
Fees are reviewed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed, so it’s important to remember that indicative tuition fees shown above are not guaranteed. Any update to fees is effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are for tuition only – other fees and charges are not included.
When you enrol into new courses in your subsequent study terms at UNSW College, a fee statement will be generated in myUNSW indicating the precise tuition fee amount that you will need to pay.
Scholarships
If you start a Diploma in 2025 or 2026, you may be eligible to receive a scholarship for the duration of your studies.
Ready to apply?
If you’re ready to start your Diploma application, you can apply directly to UNSW.
At UNSW College, every application we receive is carefully considered. When you are ready to start your application, click the button below.
Need help?
If you need help or have questions about the application process, read our guide on How to Apply.
Or you can get advice from one of our certified agents who can help you through the process. Find an agent near you.
Why study with UNSW College?
Launch your future at a global top 20 university
When you successfully complete your Diploma at UNSW College, you can progress straight into the second year of a UNSW Sydney bachelor’s degree – just like 90% of our diploma graduates.
Your proven pathway to success
With more than 50 years’ experience and over 125,000 graduates, UNSW College knows what it takes to help students achieve their goals and thrive at university.
Surrounded by support
From academic support to health, wellbeing, accommodation and accessibility services – you’ll be backed by a full circle of care to help you succeed.
Launch your future at a global top 20 university
Successfully complete your Diploma and progress directly into the second year of your undergraduate degree at UNSW Sydney.
Support as you learn
The Diploma is designed for international students like you, so you can develop English language and academic skills to take the next step into university with confidence.
Directly connected to UNSW Sydney
The Diploma is co-developed with UNSW Sydney and provides full access to UNSW Sydney’s world-class facilities and resources including libraries, clubs and societies.
"The diploma program was tailored to be like regular first year in a bachelor’s degree, which made it easier to transition into second year. The program helped prepare me for the rest of the journey."
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Foundation Studies, Academic English and Pre-Masters Program
UNSW College delivers its Foundation Studies, Academic English, and Pre-Masters Program under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
Diplomas
UNSW College delivers its UNSW College Diplomas under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education). UNSW College delivers UNSW Diplomas on behalf of UNSW Sydney under CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).
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