Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security

Go beyond the firewall

With cybercrime networks constantly evolving and the cost of cybercrime increasing dramatically, governments and organisations have a pressing need to stay a step ahead. There is high demand globally for cyber security experts to secure digital networks and protect our communities, and thousands of cyber security jobs are added every year

What will you do?

Our Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security will equip you to execute and manage cutting-edge cyber security programs in any sphere.

You will gain:

  • a broad perspective on complex cyber security needs and issues
  • high-level technical skills and the ability to apply them in real-world contexts
  • the ability to critically analyse and evaluate relevant data and technology
  • the chance to gain invaluable real-world experience, through a major research or industry-based project as well as an optional industry internship.

How will you study?

This program is able to be studied in either part-time, standard full-time or accelerated mode—enabling you to undertake your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you. For further information, see the Degree Structure section.

Where could it take you?

You could identify vulnerabilities in social welfare systems. Audit information security procedures for business advisory firms and their clients. Or customise state-of-the-art cyber security software for growing SMEs. This program could also give you 24 units of advanced standing in the Master of Cyber Security.



Advance your career in Cyber Security

South Australia is becoming the cyber hub of Australia. Make your mark in the industry and develop your technical capabilities in securing the future for businesses and individuals.




  • Ranked #50 in the world for computer science and engineering^
  • Ranked #7 in the world for Artificial Intelligence*
  • Home of the world-leading Australian Institute of Machine Learning

* US Global Rankings, 2023
^ ARWU, 2022

Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
I am a:

Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GD134, 3GD125
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake

January, May, September

Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study

A completed Bachelor's degree or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 4.5. 


  • Admissions Transparency Data
    Student Profile
    Applicant background Semester one/Full year intake 2023
    Number of students Percentage of all students
    International students 1 100.0%
    All students 1 100.0%

Ready to Apply?

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

Apply

Fees and Scholarships

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant fees and scholarships information for this program.
I am a:

Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Commonwealth-supported place: $8,945

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

Successful domestic applicants to the Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security will have access to a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places, meaning a reduction of up to 80% off the course fees due to government subsidies. Offer subject to change. To apply for a Commonwealth Supported Place, please include SATAC code 3GD134 on your SATAC application.

Scholarships

These scholarships, as well as many others funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.

Find a Scholarship.

Careers

Career Readiness

Graduates are well equipped to lead cyber security initiatives across industry as diverse as finance and banking, government, education, healthcare and online retail.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Professional Accreditation

The Master of Cyber Security degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Computer Programmer;  Computer Scientist;  Programmer;  Cyber Defender;  Information Analyst

Degree Structure

The Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security is ideal for those students who have a background/qualifications in another field and are looking to upskill in this exciting, high-demand area. The curriculum has been designed to include all of the necessary computer science foundations for students to succeed. Students with relevant qualifications or experience in computer science can apply for advanced standing*.

To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security, students must satisfactorily complete a program of study consisting of the following requirements with a combined total of no less than 24 units comprising:

  • Four core courses to the value of 12 units
  • Two courses from elective set A courses to the value of 6 units
  • Choice of two additional courses** from elective set A or B to the value of 6 units

*For further information, please contact one of our friendly program advisors.

**Unless exempted, international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.


Study mode

This program is able to be studied in either part-time, standard full-time or accelerated mode—enabling you to undertake your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you*.

  • Accelerated mode – 12 units (4 courses) per trimester

  • Standard full-time mode – 24 units (8 courses) per year

  • Part-time mode – 3 or 6 units (1 or 2 courses) per trimester

You can even choose the study load that works best for you at different times of the year.

Whatever mode you choose, our interactive blend of online and face-to-face learning supports you in fitting your study around other commitments—without compromising on authentic and immersive learning experiences.

*International students please note: accelerated study modes are subject to visa conditions. Please contact one of our friendly program advisors for more information.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security

Example Study Plan

Core courses (12 units total)
Students must complete all of the following

Elective Set A (6 units total)

Option 1:
2 courses* (3 units each) plus 2 from Set B

OR

Option 2:
ENG 7111 Internship (6 units) plus 2 from Set B

OR

Option 3:
4 courses* (3 units each) with NO Set B electives
*Unless exempted international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.
Elective Set B (6 units total)
Students much choose 2 courses*

*Unless exempted international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Tuesday, 19 Dec 2023