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HED010 | 117455H

Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security

Postgraduate course in cyber security

Our Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge, skills and ethical understanding required to address the evolving challenges of the digital landscape. This course provides a strong foundational knowledge in technical cyber security knowledge combined with cyber security policy and governance.

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WAYS TO STUDY Online
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 14 Jul 2025 Duration: 1 year View all intakes
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
Domestic

This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

$24,000

Course overview

Cybersecurity concerns present a global challenge and race against time. As evident with recent breaches involving Optus and Medibank, cyberattacks are increasingly prevalent, technology innovations are rapidly advancing, and cybersecurity strategies are unable to adequately keep pace. Compounding this challenge is the current lack of a skilled cybersecurity industry workforce, which increases current threat exposure (Summerfield 2022).

The number of tech workers focusing on cyber security is expected to grow from 24,700 in 2022 to 48,000 by 2030. There will also be some 36,000 workers in cyber security in the broader workforce by 2030 (ACS Australia's Digital Pulse, A new approach to building technology skills 2023 by Deloitte).

This Graduate Diploma in Cybersecurity course focusses on a range of key industry-relevant areas in which you will develop knowledge and expertise about system security and digital forensics, Cyber Policy & Governance and ethical hacking & defence. On completion of this course, you can fast track your way into the Master of Cyber Security (Advanced).

What can I do?

  • Cyber Security Analyst
  • Cyber Security Architect
  • Cyber Security Manager
  • Forensic Computer Analyst
  • Cyber Risk and Governance Consultant
  • Cyber Security Policy Officer
  • Incident Response Manager
  • Security and Compliance Auditor

Course outcome:

Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security

Simulations and war games

Be immersed in our world-class Cyber Security Training Operation Centre which comprises attack and defence rooms, monitoring rooms for hacking/triaging web data and data centres to incorporate IT infrastructure providing real-world opportunities for future cyber security professionals. 

Cybersecurity Lego City simulated space

The LEGO City allows students to attack and defend city infrastructure, simulating the impact of a real cyber-attack, the state-of-the-art centre unlocks a world of opportunities for students to gain advanced cyber security skills using the latest equipment and technology, all under the guidance of our industry-experienced educators. 

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete 80 credit points comprising six core units (60 credit points) and elective units (20 credit points) from the list below. 

 

FEE-HELP assistance is available for all units of study in this course. Learn more about FEE-HELP.
Learn more about Higher Education fee schedules.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • CYB801
    Cyber Security Risk and Incident Management
    UNIT CODE :
    CYB801
    Unit description :
    Cyber security incidents are continually increasing in sophistication and prevalence. This unit prepares students for incident detection and response within an organisation and the application of incident management practices to address a variety of cyber security incidents. It also guides students in communicating incident related aspects during cyber security incidents. The practical nature of this unit will ensure students are job-ready and competitive in the industry.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Cyber Security Risk and Incident Management
    (Credit points: 10; EFTSL = 0.125)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CYB802
    Cyber Security Law and Ethics
    UNIT CODE :
    CYB802
    Unit description :
    This unit provides students with advanced practical skills of ethical hacking to penetrate secure systems with the aim to uncover vulnerabilities for defence purposes. This unit particularly focuses on network-enabled services and technologies. Students will learn techniques for evaluating organisational readiness, the security of network configuration and to defend against network-based threats.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Cyber Security Law and Ethics
    (Credit points: 10; EFTSL = 0.125)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CYB803
    Information and Network Security
    UNIT CODE :
    CYB803
    Unit description :
    This unit focuses on the effective deployment, utilisation and monitoring of both a wired and wireless network. Students will identify, analyse and design effective cyber security network designs. Students will also learn the intricacies involved in reporting and disseminating innovative and sustainable design solutions.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Information and Network Security
    (Credit points: 10; EFTSL = 0.125)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CYB804
    Applied Project
    UNIT CODE :
    CYB804
    Unit description :
    This unit offers the opportunity to apply knowledge in either a Technical or Governance context. Students can use a range of hardware and/or software tools to demonstrate comprehension in an organisational setting. This applied learning unit enables students to build on foundational knowledge.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Applied Project
    (Credit points: 10; EFTSL = 0.125)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CYB805
    Cyber Security Policy and Governance
    UNIT CODE :
    CYB805
    Unit description :
    This unit examines cyber security governance and public policy. Students will explore cyber security jurisdiction, cybercrime, cyberterrorism, the invasion of privacy, law enforcement and legal breaches. An important aspect of the unit is the development of communication skills essential for good cyber security governance in contemporary organisations.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Cyber Security Policy and Governance
    (Credit points: 10; EFTSL = 0.125)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CYB806
    Penetration Testing and Defence
    UNIT CODE :
    CYB806
    Unit description :
    This unit provides students with an opportunity to explore national and international cyber security standards, regulations, law and ethical principles. Students will learn how to approach the challenge of ethical dilemmas that occur in cyber security. The question of standards, regulations, law, ethics and morality is applied to cyber security and the use of technology more generally. Students will learn to navigate various principles and codes of conduct that apply in the virtual world of cyber security.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Penetration Testing and Defence
    (Credit points: 10; EFTSL = 0.125)

Ways to study
  • Your course is primarily online and you may interact with your teachers and other students using Zoom. You will also need to come in to campus to complete some practical learning and assessment. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
Online with on campus practical training (South Bank)
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Full time 4 nights per week
  • Domestic: $24,000

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

demo

Online with on campus practical training (South Bank)

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    80%
  • On Campus Time
    20%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 4 nights per week
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
  • Domestic: $24,000

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

Yes
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

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Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security (HED010)

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Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security

COURSE CODE: HED010
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more
International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more

Fee Help

FEE-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme that covers the cost of your tuition fees on your behalf. FEE-HELP is available to students who are not studying in a Commonwealth supported place (and are therefore not eligible for HECS-HELP).

Learn more

Entry requirements

All applicants
To commence the Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security you should have:

  • a relevant qualification at AQF 5 level completed within the last 6 years and a minimum of 2 years relevant work experience;
    OR
  • a minimum of Bachelor's Degree completed within the last 6 years in a relevant discipline.
    OR
  • a minimum of three years relevant work experience.

A relevant/related qualification means Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, Business Data Analytics, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, or another comparable/equivalent field.

Relevant work experience includes a minimum of three years’ work in a professional, knowledge-based or information-oriented workplace. Such as demonstration of experience in a technology or enterprise role related to Computer Science, Cyber Security, Information Technology, Information Systems, Business Data Analytics, Software Engineering or another comparable/equivalent field. This will need to be supported with evidence.


Language requirements
English language requirements apply to applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants
for entry to this course are described below and applicants must sit the academic version, not the general version.

English Language Proficiency Standards:

  • PTE: Minimum overall score of 58 and a minimum score of 58 in each of the four communicative skills
  • IELTS:  6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0)
  • TOEFL: iBT: 79 (19 reading, 20 listening, 20 speaking, 24 writing) 
  • OET: pass at “B” level in each of four components

Please note that Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) does not satisfy English Language proficiency for this qualification.
Learn more about TAFE Queensland's English Language Equivalencies (International students)
Learn more about TAFE Queensland's English Language Proficiency Standards (Domestic Students)

Selection criteria

Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum course entry requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office a Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.  There will be specific software and hardware requirements outlined in the relevant Unit Study Guide.

You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network. Further information will be provided during orientation.

Specific requirements include
In addition to the above there are specific course requirements including but not limited to the following:

  • computer system loaded with Kali Linux operating system
  • open source penetration testing tools namely nMap, Wireshark, Metasploit, Scapy, John-the-Ripper, and Burp Suite
  • network test bed for security related assessment
  • localhost webserver

Printing costs
For more information about costs for printing please refer to the printing section of the TAFE Queensland Library network website.

Placement

This course comprises hands-on tasks that enable you to work with industry and apply theory to practice in a collaborative, simulated real-world environment at TAFE Queensland, in a placement or in your own workplace. You'll use real-world data and state-of-the-art software to solve industry specific case studies, specific industry projects and problems.

Important information

View the Course Information handbook.

Criminal History check
During your enrolment at TAFE Queensland you may be required to provide TAFE Queensland with updated Criminal History Checks. If your police check identifies that you have a criminal history you may disqualified from being eligible to undertake your industry placement, which would affect your course outcomes. If you think this might impact you, please speak to the course coordinator for further information.   
 

Advanced Standing
Advanced Standing comprises credit and recognition of prior learning. You may be able to have your prior studies or work experience count as credit towards your course and be able to graduate sooner. 

Prior studies include units completed at TAFE Queensland or at another institution. View our credit transfer policy.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland.

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.