Diploma of Science
Be at the forefront of innovation.
Diploma of Science
Explore. Discover. Innovate.
Domestic
International
A UNSW College Diploma of Science is your pathway to UNSW Sydney, a global top 20 university.*
It only takes 12-months to gain the skills, confidence and knowledge to move into the second year of your Bachelor of Science 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.
The Diploma of Science will give you the best start to explore further study in fields including biotechnology, physics, and environmental science.
*QS World University Rankings, 2026.
The UNSW College Diploma of Science is a supportive 12-month program that gives you the foundational skills and knowledge, so you can confidently progress into the second year of the Bachelor of Science 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 Science, or hold qualifications that are not recognised by UNSW Sydney, the Diploma pathway could be the best option for you.
Intakes
January, May, August*
Duration
12 months (3 terms)
Weekly class time
Approximately 20-25 hours
Progression
Second Year, Bachelor of Science at UNSW Sydney
Delivery mode
On-campus
CRICOS Code
113049K^
*For full details on intakes, please view Key dates.
^Prior to August 2024, this program was delivered as Diploma in Science, CRICOS Course Code 095862A.
Apply for Term 1 2026 via UAC
Planning to start a Diploma in 2026? Equivalent to first year of uni, you can start a Diploma and progress into second year of your bachelor's degree, no time lost. To apply, simply create your application in UAC and preference your UNSW College Diploma, just like you would a university degree.
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 be in small classes (around 20 students) and get up to 20% more teaching time than first year at UNSW
- 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 choose science at UNSW Sydney?
From exploring the depths of the ocean to advancing breakthroughs in neuroscience, biotechnology, and quantum physics, studying science at UNSW Sydney will equip you with the knowledge and skills to take on the biggest global challenges.
A Bachelor of Science at UNSW Sydney gives you the freedom to follow your interests and uncover your passion. You’ll develop in-demand, transferable skills that open doors to a wide range of careers – all while learning from world-leading academics and working with some of the most advanced facilities in Australia.
Life at UNSW Sydney goes beyond the classroom. With access to cutting-edge labs, libraries, and more than 330 clubs and societies, you’ll be part of a vibrant, supportive community. Collaborate with peers, learn from industry leaders, and find the inspiration to pursue your goals with confidence.
With a wide choice of majors and a future-focused approach to science education, UNSW Sydney will prepare you to lead, innovate, and help shape a better world.
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 will gain the introductory knowledge you need for further study in Science.
Why choose science at UNSW Sydney?
UNSW Sydney has eight study areas in the faculty of science ranked in the world’s top 50 (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025), including Materials Science, Earth & Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geology, and Geophysics. With a strong focus on research, our science degrees are built to challenge the way you think, encourage curiosity, and inspire real-world discoveries.
When you study science at UNSW Sydney, you’ll open the door to exciting career opportunities and graduate ready to lead in fields including computer science, biotechnology, and quantum physics. From oceanography to neuroscience, you’ll have the flexibility to explore a range of disciplines and find the area that inspires you the most.
You’ll be encouraged to develop creative solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems, while building versatile, job-ready skills that translate across industries.
At UNSW Sydney, you’ll be part of a connected, career-focused student community. You’ll have access to leading facilities – including world-class labs, libraries, and over 330 student clubs and societies – plus opportunities to grow your professional and social networks.
With a wide choice of majors and a vibrant, inclusive campus environment, you’ll explore new ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and shape your future with confidence.
Career opportunities
- Environmental scientist
- Epidemiologist
- Geophysicist
- Hospital technician
- Marine biologist
- Medical lab scientist
- Nutritionist
- Pharmacist
- Science educator
- Scientist
- Veterinary scientist
Your future at UNSW
Once you successfully complete your Diploma of Science (and meet the entry requirements), you will progress directly to second year of your Bachelor of Science degree at UNSW Sydney.
You will have the option to choose from the following majors:
- Anatomy
- Biology and Biodiversity*
- Chemistry
- Food Science*
- Genetics
- Marine and Coastal*
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
- Microbiology
- Molecular & Cell Biology
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Physical Oceanography
- Physics
- Physiology
- Statistics
Note: Diploma of Science students must achieve a Satisfactory Grade for the Communication and Academic Literacy course and a minimum pass for all other courses to progress to second year of the relevant degree 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.
* Specific courses are required in second year, which may increase program duration.
Your future at UNSW
Once you successfully complete your Diploma of Science (and meet the entry requirements), you will progress into the second year of the Bachelor of Science at UNSW Sydney.
You will have the option to choose from the following majors:
- Anatomy
- Biology and Biodiversity*
- Chemistry
- Food Science*
- Genetics
- Marine and Coastal*
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
- Microbiology
- Molecular & Cell Biology
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Physical Oceanography
- Physics
- Physiology
- Statistics
Note: Diploma of Science students must achieve a Satisfactory Grade (equivalent to IELTS 6.5) for the Communication and Academic Literacy course and a minimum pass for all other courses to progress to second year of the relevant undergraduate degree 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.
* Specific courses are required in second year, which may increase program duration.
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 of science 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 Science 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.
-
What is anatomy?
Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body. It focuses on how our body parts interact to create our capacity to move, feel and think. Anatomy examines the macroscopic and microscopic structure of the body. This includes the anatomy of the developing body and evolutionary or comparative anatomy including biological anthropology.
Anatomy Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Anatomy subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
-
What is biology?
Biology is the study of life and living organisms. These areas include botany, ecology, marine biology and zoology. Botany looks at all aspects of plants and their relation to the environment. Ecologists study the distribution and abundance of organisms as well as the structure and function of ecosystems. Marine biology is about life in the ocean, estuaries and other coastal environments. Zoology looks at the structure, behaviour, habits, genetics, distribution, evolution and classification of animals.
Biology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Biology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is chemistry?
Chemistry looks at the world around us, to assess the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of materials. Chemists develop cutting edge technologies to deliver solutions to societal challenges such as energy generation and storage, to service a growing population and demand; develop new drugs to aid society, and engage in many other beneficial research and development projects.
Chemistry Diploma subjects
View an example of the courses you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Chemistry subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is food science?
Food science is the discipline that applies science to all aspects involving food. This includes the production, handling, processing, preserving, and nutritional analysis of food. You will gain an understanding of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, the chemical components of food. This relatively new discipline is driven to a large degree by market demands of easy-to-prepare foods, which are safe to consume yet maintain their nutritional value.
Food science Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Food science subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B (Elective)
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells & Genes
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences (Elective)
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology (Elective)
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is genetics?
Genetics is the study of genes, the blueprint of life, which are fundamental to all living organisms. Genes influence every characteristic of an organism, such as its appearance, behaviour, and susceptibility to disease. Genes can be influenced by the environment, affecting the development and maintenance of whole organisms. The combination of molecular and more traditional genetics has allowed us to solve problems in applications ranging from molecular genetics to human disease, plant breeding, microbiology and conservation biology.
Genetics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Genetics subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is marine & coastal science?
Marine & coastal science offers a unique opportunity to study across both physical and biological aspects of the marine environment. Biologists, geologists and oceanographers strive to learn more about the oceans so we can both use and protect this valuable resource. Marine biologists work with geologists who study the topography of the ocean floor, sediments and marine resources; with physical oceanographers who study the waves, currents and tides; or with chemists who study the chemical composition of seawater, including the concentrations of pollutants and nutrients.
Marine & coastal science Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Marine & coastal science subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is materials science?
Material science is the study of the properties and associated uses of materials including metals, ceramics, plastics, composites, nanomaterials and biomaterials. Material scientists develop high performance materials, engineer new applications, develop and customise innovative processing techniques, predict and analyse the performance of materials, and manage commercial material production. As a material scientist you can pursue a career in mining, hospitals, regulatory bodies, research institutions, tertiary education, medical device manufacturing and the biotechnology industry.
Materials science Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Materials science subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is mathematics?
Mathematics provides the fundamental understanding of nature, technology and commerce. Data and factual information can be interpreted using the techniques and theory of statistics. Graduates are highly sought after for employment in a diverse range of professions in areas including the sciences, finance, insurance, computing, and environmental modelling.
Mathematics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Mathematics subjects
Option one
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Option two
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is microbiology?
Microbiology is the study of the smallest organisms and their impacts. Micro-organisms are the oldest known and most diverse forms of life that we know about. They are beneficial in areas such as baking, brewing, the manufacture of dairy foods and pharmaceuticals. On the other hand, some forms of micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and archaea may cause disease and spoil our food.
Microbiology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Microbiology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is molecular & cell biology?
Molecular & cell biology marries biochemistry, genomics, and cell biology providing a new approach for the study of living organisms. Molecular biology represents a fundamental component of biological and medical science and has increasingly important roles to play in many aspects of modern medicine, genetics, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, biotechnology and genomics.
Molecular & cell biology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Molecular & cell biology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is pathology?
Pathology is the study of diseases such as infections and cancers, and their processes, such as inflammation, at the genetic, molecular, cellular and organ levels. Pathologists examine the origins of diseases and their importance in the diagnosis of these diseases. You will become familiar with examining both macroscopic specimens and the microscopic differences between normal and abnormal cells, tissues and organs.
Pathology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Pathology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is pharmacology?
Pharmacology examines the interaction between drugs and living systems, particularly molecular interactions of drugs at the organ, tissue and cellular level. The study of pharmacology plays an increasingly important part in medicine as well as being of central importance in the education of pharmacists, toxicologists and veterinarians. A career as a pharmacologist could take you into the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries in the areas of research, testing, administration and management of drugs.
Pharmacology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Pharmacology subjects
- Pharmacology courses
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Pharmacology courses
-
What is physical oceanography?
Physical oceanography involves an understanding of the mathematical equations that describe fluid flow, and how these are used in the context of the oceans. It is essential to understanding climate change and global warming. You will gain an understanding of what controls coastal ocean currents, water-mass formation, upwelling, storm surges and large-scale ocean flow. You will also learn about the dynamics of a range of ocean processes, including waves, tides, beach currents and the El-Nino/Southern Oscillation. A background in oceanography can be applied to disciplines such as climatology, the dynamics of marine populations and the dynamic structure of marine and coastal habitats.
Physical oceanography Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Physical oceanography subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is physics?
Physics is the most basic and fundamental science and the laws of physics govern the behaviour of the universe. The study of physics looks at the nature and properties of matter and energy. You will be challenged to develop critical thinking skills, an ability to pose challenging questions, and solve problems. Physicists’ strong analytical and problem solving skills, coupled with their strong mathematical skills makes them useful in many industries such as communications, computing, electronics, finance and biomedical technology.
Physics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Physics subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is physiology?
Physiology examines how our body, organs, tissues and cells work as part of an integrated system. It describes the fundamental properties of living systems. Physiology is one of the major foundations of medicine and underpins biomedical study and research. Graduates are employed in various medical and health-related settings including hospitals as exercise physiologists, in rehabilitation, in sports institutes, government organisations, health administration and biomedical research.
Physiology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Physiology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Genes and Cells
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is statistics?
Statistics is the process of posing questions and seeking answers by collecting and analysing suitable data. A career in statistics can take you into various fields including agriculture, medical research, industrial research, forensic science, market research, environmental science and quality assurance. This mode of inquiry also features prominently in the decision-making processes of both commerce and government through methods such as census.
Statistics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Science below.
Statistics subjects
Option One
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Option Two
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary and Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
Domestic
International
The Diploma is designed 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 Science
Minimum grade requirement – Mathematics
Assumed knowledge – Relevant Sciences
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 Science
Total Units of Credit: 48
Courses to complete: 8
Core courses
| Course Code | Course Name | Units of Credit | EFTSL | Fee |
| AELC1304 | Communication and Academic Literacy 4 | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
Choose seven electives from the following list depending on specialisation
| Course Code | Course Name | Units of Credit | EFTSL | Fee |
| MTHS1312 | Fundamentals of Mathematics B* | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| MTHS1313 | Mathematics 1A | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| MTHS1314 | Mathematics 1B | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| CHMS1331 | Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| CHMS1332 | Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BLSC1341 | Evolutionary and Functional Biology | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BLSC1342 | Molecules, Cells and Genes | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| BLSC1343 | Applied Biomolecular Sciences | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| PHSC1321 | Physics 1A | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| PHSC1323 | Higher Physics 1A | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| PHSC1322 | Physics 1B | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| PHSC1324 | Higher Physics 1B | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
| MTSC1361 | Design and Application of Materials in Science and Engineering | 6 | 0.125 | $4,752.00 |
Students will study either Physics 1A or Higher Physics 1A depending on the requirements of their specialisation.
Students will study either Physics 1B or Higher Physics 1B depending on the requirements of their specialisation.
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.
-
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.
2025 tuition fees
A$46,080
2026 tuition fees
A$48,480
| Course | 2025 Indicative Fees Per Course ($AUD) | 2026 Indicative Fees Per Course ($AUD) | Courses to complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Science | $5,760 | $6,060 | 7 |
| 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 has helped me by implementing the bases of knowledge needed to progress further with our studies. Furthermore, it gave me more information that helped me decide which major I want to take in university and what path I want to take in the future."
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™.
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).
See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2025 UNSW Global Pty Limited.