Diploma in General Studies
Enjoy the experience of overseas travel while simultaneously receiving an Australian qualification. If you want the best of both worlds, USC’s Diploma in General Studies is the program for you.
This program is a recognised 1-year (96 units) Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award program.
A great option if you have just finished high school and want to study abroad without committing to a 3-year or 4-year degree.
Also a great option if you are currently enrolled at an overseas institution and only want to study abroad for a short time, while possibly earning an AQF qualification to use towards your home degree.
This program is only available to international students.
Location
CRICOS code
Duration
Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.Indicative fees
Indicative 2025 fees (A$)
Annual feeStart
- Semester 1
- Semester 2
- Semester 1
- Semester 2
- Start
-
- Semester 1
- Semester 2
- Semester 1
- Semester 2
- Delivery mode
-
- Blended Learning
- Total courses
- 8
- Total units
- 96
- Duration
- 1 year 1 year
- CRICOS code
- 084896D
- UniSC program code
- AB101
To be awarded the Diploma in General Studies, students are required to successfully complete 8 courses (96 units).
Students will undertake 4 courses (or 48 units) per semester and can choose from the:
- Undergraduate elective course options
Note: Any courses that have pre-requisite courses will need to be assessed and approved by UniSC's International Office.
How to choose your courses
- Select your preferred courses from either of these lists
- Please ensure you read the elective courses and requisites information carefully.
- When you apply to UniSC, nominate the courses that you wish to undertake in your first semester.
The standard course load for this program is 4 courses (or 48 units) per semester. We recommend you choose more courses at the point of application, to be prepared for possible timetable clashes.
Course approval
When we receive your complete application with your nominated courses, we will assess your eligibility and let you know by email which courses have been approved.
Remember, any course that is on the pre-approval list has already been approved by UniSC and you do not require further approval from us prior to enrolment.
For students applying via their home institution:
If you are currently enrolled at a tertiary institution, you need to check with your home institution about the possibility of credit transfer for courses studied at UniSC.
Choose your courses and have them approved by UniSC and your home institution before you arrive.
Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all UniSC courses are available on every UniSC campus.
Entry requirements
For entry into most USC undergraduate degree programs, you need to have completed a minimum level of education similar to successful completion of Australian Year 12 with good grades.
Further studies, for example, a semester or more at college or university, can also be considered for entry and may give you credit transfer towards a degree.
Some examples of upper secondary qualifications and a guide to the minimum grades that USC will consider are listed here. These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee entry. Some programs may require higher grades. Alternative qualifications may also be considered on a case by case basis.
If your qualification (grouped by country) is not listed, send the qualification transcripts with your application form to the International Office for assessment.
English language requirements
You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSC’s programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).
Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.
Refer to Diploma in General Studies - Inherent Academic Requirements
UniSC strongly supports the rights of all people to pursue studies. The University embraces diversity and endeavours to accommodate all students.
What are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs)?
The IARs of a program are those fundamental skills, capabilities and knowledge that students must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program, while maintaining the academic integrity of that program.
Students with a disability or chronic health condition may be able to have reasonable adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements.
UniSC is committed to making reasonable adjustments to teaching and learning, assessment, placement and other activities to enable students to participate in their program.
Reasonable adjustments must not fundamentally change the nature of the IAR.
Consideration is given to a student's cultural and religious background/beliefs, which may impact on participation in their program or course. For further information contact Student Support.
Why are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs) important?
IARs ensure the academic integrity of a program is maintained and preserves the University's learning, assessment and accreditation processes. They must be met by all students.
How does this affect you?
To successfully complete a program at UniSC, you need to be able to meet all the Inherent Academic Requirements.
If you are applying for a program, you should read the IAR statement carefully to ensure you are able to meet them.
If you have a disability or chronic health condition, contact a UniSC Disability Advisor to talk about the adjustments that may be put in place so you can meet the requirements.
Headstart Program - Years 10 to 12
The Headstart program lets you study uni subjects while you’re still in high school. If you successfully complete two Headstart courses, you’ll get a selection rank that you could use to get into uni.
Early Offer Guarantee scheme - Year 12
The Early Offer Guarantee scheme enables Year 12 students to be offered a place at UniSC on the basis of their Principal's recommendation.
Prior study or work experience
If you:
- have completed Year 12 (no matter how long ago)
- have a TAFE/VET qualification
- have relevant work experience, or
- have studied at university before (even if you didn’t complete your studies)
You may be eligible for a selection rank, which can help you get into uni. For more detailed information selection ranks and how applications are assessed, visit Admissions explained.
Tertiary Preparation Pathway
If you don’t have qualifications or experience that will give you a selection rank, you can complete the Tertiary Preparation Pathway as a stepping stone into most degrees. You can also use TPP to complete subject prerequisites.
If you haven’t studied in a while, TPP is also a great way to brush up on essential study skills like critical reading, assignment writing and referencing.
It can also build your knowledge and confidence in the subject areas you’ll need for your degree, like science or maths. TPP courses are fee-free for eligible domestic students.
Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS)
You may be eligible for direct entry into a UniSC degree based on your potential to succeed, under UniSC’s Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS). All you have to do is complete an online application through our website.
High-school leavers completing year 12 are not eligible, and must apply through QTAC.
- Annual tuition fee (A$, 2025)
- A$23,100
International fee-paying places
Annual tuition fees are based on 2025 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.
Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).
All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).
No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.
Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.
Need help with submitting your application?
UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.
Any questions? Contact us.
Student story
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