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Diploma of Science

This diploma gives a broad introduction to the natural and physical sciences.

Compare 9 providers
How long it takes
8 to 12 months
full time
Entry ATAR
From 50.85
Lowest offered at University of Canberra, 2024
How you can study
Online, on campus or a mix
Taught by
9 providers
5 states and territories

Is this course right for you?

What the Diploma of Science asks of you, and what you might want to check first.

It helps to have

  • an interest in how the natural world works
  • curiosity about scientific ideas and evidence
  • patience for careful reading and observation
  • willingness to ask questions and check your thinking

Before you start

Each provider sets its own entry requirements, so check the ones you are considering.

Diploma or Bachelor?

The Bachelor of Science is a bachelor degree, a higher level than this diploma. The Undergraduate Certificate in Science sits at another undergraduate award level, below the diploma.

Where this course can take you

The study that can follow this course.

If you study further

Pay is the median for everyone in the job, and “In demand” means the job is on the national shortage list.

Where you can study this course

There are 9 places you can study this course. When you compare them, check they teach it the way you want to study, how far you'd be from a campus, what it will cost you and what past students say about the teaching and support. They're listed by how often people search for them, and none of them pays to be here or to move up.

What you’ll learn

The main topics covered in the Diploma of Science.

  • Chemistry and biology basics
  • Mathematics and statistics
  • Laboratory practice
  • Scientific thinking and problem solving
  • Academic and communication skills

Questions to ask before you enrol

Providers run this course differently, so the answers change from one to the next.

  1. When is the next intake, and how many are there each year?
  2. What is the total cost, including materials, checks and any placement costs?
  3. Can I study part time or online, and how does that change the length?
  4. Do the units count towards a higher qualification if I go on to study further?

Questions people ask

Do I need experience or other qualifications first?

Entry requirements are set by each provider, so check with the provider you choose before you enrol.

How is it different from Bachelor of Science (Bachelor degree)?

The Bachelor of Science is a bachelor degree, a higher level than this diploma. The Undergraduate Certificate in Science sits at another undergraduate award level, below the diploma.

Related courses

Course Seeker, run by the Tertiary Admissions Centres and the Australian Government Department of Education. Google reviews. Pay and shortage status from Jobs and Skills Australia.