ICT50220 | CRICOS: 107313E

Diploma of Information Technology

Advanced Programming

Advance your IT career with this high-level course and learn specialist skills that will qualify you to become an assistant software developer or systems administrator.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast

WAYS TO STUDY On campus International

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 27 Jan 2027 Duration: 1 year View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$14,260

Subsidised

$15,380

Full Fee

$19,100

International

$23,000

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Launch your IT career by learning specialist practical job-ready skills in this intermediate-high level diploma program.

According to the ACS Digital Pulse Report 2026, looking ahead, Deloitte Access Economics forecasts that Australia will need an additional 259,000 technology workers by 2035. While expected annual growth of 2.4% is slower than in recent years, it remains close to twice the rate expected for the broader workforce. This forecast reflects that while the next decade will see significant changes to the composition of the technology workforce and skill mix, the need for a skilled and professional workforce to leverage digital tools will remain.

The Advanced Programming Specialisation offers a mix of Object-Oriented programming languages with Java and C# in a GUI environment, Database design/development, SQL and NoSQL technologies to name a few. You will also learn to match ICT needs for an organisation, whilst promoting cyber security awareness in the workplace.

As technology continues to evolve, modern software developers are increasingly using AI-assisted tools to support coding, testing, debugging and document creation, resulting in productivity gains. In response to emerging industry trends, TAFE Queensland educators are integrating appropriate AI-assisted development practices into learning and assessment activities, whilst maintaining a strong focus on programming fundamentals, problem solving, software application development and critical thinking.

What can I do?

Assistant Software Developer
Systems Administrator
Analyst Programmer
Web Developer
Database Designer and Developer

Course outcome:

ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Programming)

Innovative teaching staff

Our courses are delivered by passionate industry experts with years of experience in the ICT sector. Our teachers understand the technical aspect of the job and are ahead of the game in innovation and development, preparing you for the next big thing in the industry.

Choose your specialisation

This course offers industry specialisations for you to choose from:

Advanced Networking and Cloud Engineering, Advanced Networking and System Administration, Advanced Programming and Front End Web Development.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 14 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
BSBCRT512

Originate and develop concepts

UNIT CODE :
BSBCRT512

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to originate and develop concepts for products, programs, processes or services to an operational level.
UNIT NAME
Originate and develop concepts

UNIT CODE
BSBXCS402

Promote workplace cyber security awareness and best practices

UNIT CODE :
BSBXCS402

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to promote cyber security in a work area.
UNIT NAME
Promote workplace cyber security awareness and best practices

UNIT CODE
BSBXTW401

Lead and facilitate a team

UNIT CODE :
BSBXTW401

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to effectively lead and facilitate a team in a workplace within any industry.
UNIT NAME
Lead and facilitate a team

UNIT CODE
ICTICT517

Match ICT needs with the strategic direction of the organisation

UNIT CODE :
ICTICT517

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to ensure information and communications technology (ICT) products and systems match the strategic direction of the organisation.
UNIT NAME
Match ICT needs with the strategic direction of the organisation

UNIT CODE
ICTICT532

Apply IP, ethics and privacy in ICT environments

UNIT CODE :
ICTICT532

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain professional and ethical conduct, as well as to ensure that personal information of stakeholders is handled in a confidential and professional manner when dealing with stakeholders in an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) environment.
UNIT NAME
Apply IP, ethics and privacy in ICT environments

UNIT CODE
ICTSAS527

Manage client problems

UNIT CODE :
ICTSAS527

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to liaise and support clients to manage and resolve problems in an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) environment.
UNIT NAME
Manage client problems

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
ICTDBS506

Design databases

UNIT CODE :
ICTDBS506

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish client needs and technical requirements and to design a database that meets identified requirements.
UNIT NAME
Design databases

UNIT CODE
ICTDBS507

Integrate databases with websites

UNIT CODE :
ICTDBS507

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to integrate a database with a website.
UNIT NAME
Integrate databases with websites

UNIT CODE
ICTICT523

Gather data to identify business requirements

UNIT CODE :
ICTICT523

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify, analyse and document business requirements.
UNIT NAME
Gather data to identify business requirements

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG430

Apply introductory object-oriented language skills

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG430

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to undertake introductory programming tasks using an object-oriented programming language including tool usage, documentation, debugging, and testing techniques.
UNIT NAME
Apply introductory object-oriented language skills

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG431

Apply query language in relational databases

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG431

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to retrieve and manipulate information stored in information systems using a query language.
UNIT NAME
Apply query language in relational databases

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG443

Apply intermediate programming skills in different languages

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG443

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out intermediate programming activities involving coding, debugging and testing of code, and creating applications using different programming languages.
UNIT NAME
Apply intermediate programming skills in different languages

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG534

Deploy applications to production environments

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG534

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to install, uninstall, and configure an application to a production environment.
UNIT NAME
Deploy applications to production environments

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG535

Build advanced user interfaces

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG535

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to design, build and test an advanced user interface (UI), including interaction techniques, rich controls, improved client-side validation, customisation and personalisation, graphics and multimedia.
UNIT NAME
Build advanced user interfaces

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG537

Implement security for applications

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG537

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to implement security for software applications, including code access security, security access control, cryptographic and secure, input and output handling.
UNIT NAME
Implement security for applications

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG547

Apply advanced programming skills in another language

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG547

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake advanced level programming tasks using another programming language. The language may be an object-oriented language.
UNIT NAME
Apply advanced programming skills in another language

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG549

Apply intermediate object-oriented language skills

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG549

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake intermediate level programming tasks using an object-oriented programming language.
UNIT NAME
Apply intermediate object-oriented language skills

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG553

Create and develop REST APIs

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG553

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create and implement representational state transfer (REST or RESTful) application program interfaces (APIs) in order to request and manipulate data from data sources.
UNIT NAME
Create and develop REST APIs

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG554

Manage data persistence using noSQL data stores

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG554

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to implement a data store and manage data persistence using non structured query language (NoSQL) to provide automatic scaling as well as high performance and availability over semi-structured data.
UNIT NAME
Manage data persistence using noSQL data stores

UNIT CODE
ICTPRG556

Implement and use a model view controller framework

UNIT CODE :
ICTPRG556

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use a model view controller (MVC) framework within a development environment that creates and develops dynamic web architecture by convention in any language.
UNIT NAME
Implement and use a model view controller framework

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	27 Jan 2027	1 year	Full time up to 4 days per week	Concession: $14,260 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $15,380 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $19,100 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 1 year The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time up to 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $14,260 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $15,380 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $19,100 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2027	1 year	Full time 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday	Concession: $14,260 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $15,380 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $19,100 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Coomera On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 1 year The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $14,260 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $15,380 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $19,100 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	27 Jan 2027	1 year	Full time up to 4 days per week	International: $23,000 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 1 year The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time up to 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY International: $23,000 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

As an international student at TAFE Queensland you will gain practical, hands-on experience in our purpose-built classrooms, laboratories and workshops with the same tools and equipment used in industry.

Studying with TAFE Queensland, an internationally recognised education provider, will give you the skills and knowledge to launch your career.

No matter where you are in your study journey, our team of international student support advisors can help you settle into life in Australia and provide support and assistance to help you throughout your studies.

As an international student you’ll study with a combination of online and classroom based learning at one of our campus locations across Queensland. You will be expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements. The number of hours of personal study required is dependent on your existing knowledge, skills and language needs.

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Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50220)

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Diploma of Information Technology

COURSE CODE: ICT50220

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.

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VET Student Loan - $19,290 cap

The VET Student Loans program assists eligible students enrolled in approved courses to pay their tuition fees. The Australian Government charges full fee-paying (non-subsidised) students a 20 per cent loan fee in addition to their tuition fees. A VET Student Loan is a debt that must be repaid.

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.
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Entry requirements

Skills check

Domestic students
You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 4 in English, 4 in Maths and 4 in Digital Technology.

If you are applying for a VET Student Loan the required levels to meet academic eligibility, as outlined by Commonwealth guidelines, is Level 4 English and Maths.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

Selection criteria

Domestic and International students
To successfully complete this qualification, it is highly recommended applicants for this course should evidence one of the following;

A Certificate III level qualification from the ICT Information and Communication Technology Training Package
Industry Certifications in the field of the Diploma you are applying for
Prior Information Technology experience or technical background relevant to the Diploma

Enrolment conditions apply for students under 18 years of age.

International students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to International students:

English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.

Applicants must be at least 17 years of age at the time of commencement and must turn 18 years old within one academic year of their course start date or within the first study period of an ELICOS course. International applicants who are under 18 years of age and applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have approved welfare and accommodation arrangements in place for the duration of their stay until they turn 18.

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 and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software are both available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class:

a 1TB SSD portable external drive
a computer with minimum 8GB of RAM, i7 processor or equivalent, with the capability of running Virtual Machines (when working at home)

Placement

Work Experience
As part of this diploma qualification, you may have the opportunity to participate in industry-relevant work experience placements. These placements are designed to enhance practical skills and provide valuable insights into real-world professional environments.
Please note: eligibility for work experience is contingent upon you demonstrating satisfactory academic progress throughout the course.

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.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

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. Visit the QTAC website for campus locations.

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.
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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.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

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