Are you considering postgraduate study in Melbourne or a smaller student city?
This guide is designed to simplify the decision-making process by highlighting the benefits and differences of your postgraduate study options. By understanding what each pathway offers, you can select the one that best aligns with your goals.
Eligibility for postgraduate study in Australia
Postgraduate qualifications—this includes graduate certificates, diplomas, master’s degrees, and doctoral (PhD) programs—are designed for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution in Australia or overseas.
General Requirements
To apply for postgraduate study in Australia, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree: You must have completed an undergraduate degree in your chosen field or a related study area.
- English language proficiency: You will need proof of English skills through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
- Work experience: Certain programs, such as MBAs or professional degrees, may also require relevant professional experience.
Pathways for those without a bachelor’s degree
If you haven’t completed a bachelor’s degree, you will need to complete an undergraduate course before pursuing postgraduate study. Victoria’s universities offer excellent undergraduate courses that prepare you for advanced qualifications in your field.
Student visa requirements
International students must also hold a valid student visa to study in Australia. Visit our Apply for a Visa page for detailed information or go to the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest information.
Explore your postgraduate options
Victoria offers a broad selection of postgraduate courses to match your career aspirations and personal interests.
Graduate Certificates and Diplomas
Graduate certificates and diplomas are short postgraduate courses designed to help you gain specialised knowledge or new skills in your chosen field.
They are ideal for:
- Expanding your expertise: Build on your existing qualifications or professional experience.
- Changing careers: Develop skills in a new area if you're looking to switch industries.
- Saving time and money: These courses are shorter and often more affordable than a full master’s program.
Here’s how they differ:
- Graduate Certificate: A focused course to quickly boost your skills in one specific area. Typically completed in 6 months. Common fields include IT, business, education, health, and hospitality.
- Graduate Diploma: A more advanced qualification that provides deeper knowledge than a certificate but still takes less time than a master’s degree—usually around 1 year to complete.
Both options offer flexibility to suit busy schedules and can often lead to further postgraduate study, like a master’s degree.
Master’s Degrees
A master’s degree will provide you with advanced knowledge in your chosen field and greater career opportunities.
Types of master’s degrees:
- Master’s by coursework: Structured with a mix of lectures, workshops, and assignments. Duration ranges from 1–2 years.
- Master’s by research: Conduct in-depth research to explore a topic of interest. With the guidance of a supervisor, this is an ideal step toward further research or a PhD. Generally, requires 2 years to complete.
Doctoral Programs (PhDs)
Victoria’s universities are home to cutting-edge research facilities and expert supervisors who will guide you towards new discoveries.
Two types of doctoral programs in Victoria:
- PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): This advanced research degree allows you to contribute original knowledge to your academic discipline.
- Professional Doctorate: Combines research with practical projects to drive innovation in your profession.
General Entry Requirements for a PhD:
- a master’s degree in a relevant field
- academic or professional references
- a research proposal (if you’re proposing your own topic).
Doctoral programs generally take 3–4 years, with some taking slightly longer depending on your pace of study and project requirements.
Find the perfect postgraduate course
Victoria offers a variety of postgraduate programs at institutions spread across the state. Whether you’re looking to study business, IT, engineering, creative arts, or healthcare, there’s a program designed for your goals.
Use the Study Melbourne Course Finder to discover the ideal course. You can search by field, campus location, or keyword to learn more about the options available in Melbourne and across regional Victoria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs )
What is a postgraduate degree?
A postgraduate degree is an advanced level of study that you can pursue after completing a bachelor’s degree. In Melbourne and Victoria, postgraduate options include graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, master’s degrees, and doctoral (PhD) programs.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree to apply for postgraduate study?
Yes, a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) is required for most postgraduate programs. Some programs may also require relevant work experience.
What postgraduate courses can I study in Melbourne or Victoria?
You can choose from a wide variety of fields, including business, IT, healthcare, engineering, creative arts, and more. Use the Study Melbourne Course Finder to explore options.
Can I work while doing postgraduate study in Melbourne?
Yes, international students with a valid student visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during term breaks and holidays. This ensures that you can focus on your learning while gaining valuable work experience.
Can I stay in Australia after completing my postgraduate study?
Yes, international students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which allows you to live and work in Australia after graduating. Check the official guidelines on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Why should I choose Melbourne and Victoria for my postgraduate study?
Melbourne is Australia’s #1 student city, offering world-class universities, a culturally vibrant lifestyle, and access to global career opportunities. Smaller student cities outside of metropolitan Melbourne also provide unique study opportunities in areas like agriculture, biosciences, and education, with affordable living costs and welcoming communities.
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