Upskill quickly with a Graduate Certificate
Ready to upskill, but not sure where to get started? Contrary to what many think, postgraduate study does not have to be lengthy. Did you know, you can complete your Graduate Certificate and receive a postgraduate qualification in as little as 6 months1? Now is the time, unlock your potential and do what is important to you!
VIEW OUR GRADUATE CERTIFICATES
What is a Graduate Certificate?
A Graduate Certificate comes in at Level 8 of the AQF and is considered a postgraduate qualification. AQF stands for the Australian Qualifications Framework and provides a national set of criteria for qualifications across Australia that must be met by higher education institutions, vocational education providers and training at schools.
Why study a Graduate Certificate?
If you are making a career change or chasing that next promotion, postgraduate qualifications can help you get there! Being shorter in length compared to a full Master degree program, you can use a Graduate Certificate to test the water and see whether postgrad study is suitable to your needs and circumstances.
What’s better? You can use the Graduate Certificate as a steppingstone into a related Masters program, and also receive credit exemptions4 (where applicable).
How long does it take to finish?
Graduate Certificates traditionally consist of 4 courses that can be completed in both, full-time and part-time capacity2. Assuming a full-time enrolment, you can complete your Graduate Certificate in as little as 6 months1!
Having said that, we believe in providing you with the flexibility you need so you can shape study around your lifestyle and work commitments3.
How much does it cost?
Most postgraduate programs offered by the University of Newcastle are full fee-paying, but there is no need to pay for the entire program upfront as you are only required to pay for the courses you take during a particular intake.
If you are a domestic student who meets the eligibility criteria, you can apply for an interest-free loan from the Australian Government via the FEE-HELP loan scheme. This means you are only required to start paying for your course fees when your salary reaches a certain level.
What can I study?
We offer a range of exciting Graduate Certificate options through our three colleges. With over 30 Graduate Certificate options available, and the flexibility to shape study around your lifestyle, now is the time to do what’s important to you.
With so many study options to choose from, we know it can be hard to choose the right degree. To make things easier, you can now compare all our degree offerings and download them as a personalised PDF.
Is there an application fee?
For most of our postgraduate programs, you can apply online for free. There is no fee involved in applying for our Graduate Certificates. Applying is easy and only takes around 10 minutes. Make sure you apply before the application closing date for your chosen program, and we will be in touch with you with further information.
If you've chosen your degree and are ready to take that next step, now is the time to apply. Need help with your application? Listen to some of our helpful tips on how to make your application as smooth as possible.
1 Assuming full time study; depending on availability of courses.
2 Depending on availability of courses.
3 Most Graduate Certificates need to be completed within 3 years of part-time study. Please refer to the program page of your preferred Graduate Certificate for more information.
4 Please click here for more information on eligibility for receiving credit exemptions.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.