Diploma in Engineering
Solve some of the world’s hardest problems.
What is a Diploma?
A Diploma is a 12-month course that gives you the foundational skills and knowledge in a specific stream. A Diploma in Engineering will take you straight into Second Year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at UNSW.
It is a great option for you as an international student if you need a bit more support but don't want to add extra time to your degree. If you have just missed out on direct entry into your preferred bachelor's degree, or hold qualifications that are not recognised by UNSW Sydney, this could also be the program for you.
Intake
November 2024
Duration
12 months
Weekly class time
Approximately 20-25 hours
Progression
Second Year, Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at UNSW Sydney
Delivery mode
On-campus
CRICOS Code
095863M
Your journey with a Diploma Program
- Overview
- Progress to UNSW Sydney
- Program structure
- Entry requirements
- Key dates
- Fees and scholarships
Who is this program for?
The Diploma Program has been designed specifically for international students. Our Diplomas make it easy to adjust to university, with:
- smaller classes and at least 20% extra teaching time
- additional English and academic support
- course material equivalent to First Year courses within the UNSW Sydney degree, and
- access to the same facilities and resources as undergraduate students.
With an innovative First Year equivalent curriculum, you will gain a solid background in the natural sciences, programming and introductory engineering courses. You will also get to design, develop and build your first prototype in your first engineering design course. This will give you a taster of what it is like for engineers in the real world.
Why study engineering at UNSW Sydney?
Work with robots, boost energy production or design bionic limbs.
UNSW are world leaders in engineering education and research, and have the No.1 Engineering faculty in Australia. Add in a recent $1 billion facilities upgrade, and you have everything you need to build a successful future in this field.
UNSW provides world-class education and a career-focused student experience. You will belong to a connected student community with opportunities to expand your network socially and professionally, as well as full access to UNSW’s world-class libraries, labs, clubs and societies.
You will explore new ideas and diverse perspectives within a vibrant student community, through a wide choice of majors available in your Bachelor of Engineering (Honours).
Career opportunities
- Aerospace Engineer
- Bioinformatics Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Chemical Engineer
- Computer Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Mining Engineer
- Telecommunications Engineer
Your future at UNSW
Once you successfully complete a Diploma (and meet the entry requirements), you will be guaranteed entry into Second Year at UNSW Sydney. UNSW is one of Australia's leading research and teaching universities, ranked in the top 20 worldwide. Boasting a career-focused education, vibrant community and flexibility in study options, UNSW will help you discover the best version of yourself.
Want to know more about specific progression requirements for your chosen UNSW Sydney bachelor’s degree?
The Diploma in Engineering is designed to provide you with a pathway straight into Second Year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) where you will have the option to choose a degree major from the following:
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) majors
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) majors
- Aerospace Engineering
- Bioinformatics
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemical Product Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering
- Robotics & Mechatronics Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Photovoltaics & Solar Energy
- Quantum Engineering
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Surveying
- Telecommunications
Note: Diploma in Engineering 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 degree program 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.
Top 20
Worldwide
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
Most
Employable Graduates
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
Leading
Innovation
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
Program structure
Diploma students learn the fundamentals required for their future studies in courses that are equivalent to First Year undergraduate courses at UNSW Sydney.
Diploma students will gain hands-on experience in engineering design and programming in addition to learning the fundamentals of mathematics and physics. All discipline-specific Diploma courses are equivalent to first year undergraduate courses but students receive added support and will also be equipped with academic and English skills. This will ensure students have a strong basis for their journey into Second Year at UNSW Sydney, where they will choose their major.
For more information on each major you can study when you get to UNSW, see below.
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What is aerospace engineering?
This specialisation is all about the design, analysis and operation of various types of spacecraft such as aeroplanes, helicopters, rockets and satellites. Aerospace engineers are responsible for testing their designed prototypes and ensuring that they function according to specifications. If this is your chosen career path, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge technologies and the opportunity to travel.
Aerospace engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is bioinformatics?
This field links engineering to the analysis of living organisms. Bioinformatics engineers develop technologies and software that are used to analyse and interpret biological data. You must have a good understanding of computing and the life sciences in order to gather, process and analyse vast amounts of data. Bioinformatics engineers work in research areas in the pharmaceutical industry, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, and medical informatics.
Bioinformatics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and two of the following:
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is chemical engineering?
Chemical engineering involves the design and development of large-scale processes which enhance the manufacture of products formed from chemicals, microorganisms and other raw materials. It is used in industrial, biological and environmental fields for the production of materials such as fuels, fertilisers, foods, alcohol, polymers and pharmaceuticals.
Chemical engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
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What is chemical product engineering?
This field forms a link between research and industrial-scale chemical engineering. Industrial chemists look at the synthesis of small-scale chemical reactions and create processes to manufacture the chemicals at an industrial scale. They also have a broad understanding of chemistry and environmental sustainability and work in pharmaceutical companies, polymer manufacturing, petrochemical processing, manufacturing industries and in food science.
Chemical product engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is civil engineering?
Civil engineers are responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of infrastructure. They work in a range of different industries involving buildings, roads, tunnels, airfields, railways and mines. Civil engineering is very broad and opens up the opportunity for further specialisation.
Civil engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Communication & Academic Literacy
And one of the following:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Design in Application of Materials in Science and Engineering
- Mathematics 1A
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What is computer engineering?
Covering the design, development and application of computer systems, computer engineering is a constantly evolving industry. It offers careers in the development of hardware/software systems to work with consumer electronics, transport systems, medical equipment, telecommunications and many more.
Computer engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Communication & Academic Literacy
And one of the following:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Mathematics 1A
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What is electrical engineering?
This field deals with the research, design, development, manufacturing and management of complex systems for many different uses. Electrical engineering has a wide array of employment opportunities including areas such as telecommunications, solar energy conversion and microprocessors.
Electrical engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subject:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Mathematics 1A
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What is environmental engineering?
Environmental engineers look at the natural world and identify environmental problems to develop effective solutions. They also coordinate activities of various specialist groups – such as biologists, ecologists and geologists – within major projects. Environmental engineering has an emphasis on management, system design, water, geotechnical and transport engineering.
Environmental engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Communication & Academic Literacy
And one of:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is materials science & engineering?
Focused on improving existing materials and developing new ones, materials science & engineering experts understand how to manipulate materials to benefit technological advances in engineering, manufacturing and health. This branch of engineering combines chemistry, physics and biology with mathematics and the principles of mechanical, chemical and electrical engineering.
Materials science & engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Design in Application of Materials in Science and Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
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What is mechanical & manufacturing engineering?
Mechanical & manufacturing engineers develop products and the machines that build them. This specialisation focuses on industrial technology and automation, production processes, finance and decision making, and computer-aided design and manufacturing. Mechanical & manufacturing engineers work within a wide range of careers from automotive, defence and aerospace to just about any industry that turns raw materials into useable products.
Mechanical & manufacturing engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is mechanical engineering?
Mechanical engineers use mechanical power to operate machines and tools to develop new machinery. During your studies you will learn how to design and manage the construction, operation and maintenance of machines used in many industries.
Mechanical engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is mining engineering?
The discipline of mining engineering involves the study of safe, economic and environmentally responsible recovery of mineral resources, followed by the processing, marketing and financial management of these resources. Mining engineers have an understanding of geomechanics, ventilation, mining planning and mineral processing.
Mining engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and one of the following:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is photovoltaics & solar energy engineering?
Involving the manufacture of solar cells that convert light into electricity, photovoltaics & solar energy engineering finds new and creative ways to harness the vast amount of energy in our sun. This fills a big demand of our increasingly energy-hungry world. People in this field use their skills and creative thinking to solve one of the world’s greatest problems – creating a sustainable energy source.
Photovoltaics & solar energy engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and one of the following:
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is quantum engineering?
Quantum engineering involves the application of fundamental physics to major engineering problems. More specifically, it involves the use of quantum mechanics to the context of quantum computing, quantum communications and quantum sensing, to name a few applications. It is a field that is undergoing explosive growth and considered to be one of the most rapidly expanding technology spaces.
Quantum engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Possible other subject:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Mathematics 1A
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What is renewable energy engineering?
This area looks at all the renewable energy technologies including solar, thermal systems, photovoltaics, wind and biomass. A career in renewable energy can encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including designing, installing and operating renewable energy generating systems. It can also include inspecting the design and construction of buildings to ensure they are energy efficient.
Renewable energy engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and one of the following:
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is robotics & mechatronic engineering?
Mechatronic engineers are involved in creating smart machines and autonomous systems, such as robots, self-operating cars and automated industrial machines. This evolving industry also covers software development to control sophisticated machinery. Understanding the conception process, design, construction, maintenance and integration of smart machinery and systems is integral to working as a mechatronic engineer, and can lead you to a career in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, mining, cargo handling and agriculture.
Robotics & Mechatronic engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is software engineering?
Software Engineering involves the processes, methods, and tools for designing and developing high-quality, reliable software systems. This involves the study and application of software specification, design, implementation, testing, and documentation. Target systems may range from simple software applications to mission-critical real-time systems. Software Engineers are skilled in writing code to design programs that fulfil needs and solve problems.
Software engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the core subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Software Engineering Fundamentals
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Design and Application of Materials in Science and Engineering
- Engineering Mechanics
- Chemistry 1A
- Chemistry 1B
- Electrical and Telecom Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Mathematics 1A
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What is surveying?
Surveying supports all construction activity and infrastructure engineering in urban and rural environments, as well as mapping and monitoring the natural environment. Activities include defining land boundaries, engineering and mining surveying, offshore surveys, digital mapping, precise positioning and property development. Surveying is a perfect combination of indoors and outdoors that involves the use of hi-tech tools such as GPSs, laser scanners, mapping drones and surveying robots to create high-definition 3D models of the built and natural environment.
Surveying subjects
View an example of the core subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
Other possible elective subjects:
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Software Engineering Fundamentals
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and telecom engineering
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What is telecommunications?
The study of how information is transferred from one point to another, telecommunications is a wide-ranging discipline. It covers many application spaces in the area of communications including those which are based on fibre optics, wireless, satellite, deep space and internet technologies.
Telecommunications Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
Telecommunications subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subject:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Mathematics 1A
Entry requirements
The Diploma Program 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 in Engineering
Minimum grade requirement – Mathematics
Assumed knowledge – Relevant Sciences
If you don’t meet the academic entry requirements for a Diploma Program, 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 Program.
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.
| Applications open | Last day to apply | Last day to accept | Orientation / Start date | Census / Last day to arrive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26th September 2024 | 24th October 2024 | 28th October 2024 | 25th November 2024 | 2nd December 2024 |
Diploma fees
2024 tuition fees
A$43,440
| Course | 2024 Indicative Fees Per Course ($AUD) | Courses to complete |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | $5,430 | 7 |
| Communications and Academic Literacy (CAL) | $5,430 | 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.
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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 in Business however you may have undertaken an elective unit from the Diploma in 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 2024 or 2025, 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?
Your path to a global top 20 university
Successfully complete a Diploma Program and progress directly to Second Year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at UNSW Sydney.
Support as you learn
The Diploma Program is designed for international students like you, so you can develop English language and study skills to take the next step with confidence.
Directly connected to UNSW
The program is accredited by UNSW Sydney and provides full access to UNSW’s world class libraries, clubs and societies.
"Student support are some of the friendliest people I have met in my life. The relationship between us and the tutors/lecturers surpassed the student-teacher relationship to friendship. Student support has helped me many times with lots of different enquiries throughout uni."
UNSW Diploma Policies
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Diploma & Foundation Studies
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