Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security

Australia's #1 Engineering & Technology Faculty

International

You have reached the maximum of 6 degrees.

Whether you have a technical background or you’re looking to transfer into the field of cyber security, this Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security will provide you with the foundational knowledge needed to excel and grow within an in-demand and essential industry.

Commencing Terms: Hexamester 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6
Duration: 1.4 Year(s)
Delivery Mode: Online
Campus: Kensington
Codes: Program code 5649; CRICOS code -


2025 Indicative first year full fee: $30,000*
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree: $40,500*
2025 Indicative first year full fee: $30,000*
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree: $40,500*

Industry aligned
100% online
Pathway to further study

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Overview

The Graduate Diploma is designed for students looking to build on their foundational knowledge and gain the cyber security skills needed to meet demand in an evolving industry. The degree is designed for professionals who work in cyber security related fields, or those with a technical background who want to transfer into the field of cyber security.

Key features

This Graduate Diploma is a qualification for professionals seeking to transition fields, retain and expand knowledge, and refresh skills. Our programs are accredited by Engineers Australia and the Australian Computer Society.

You’ll develop a global contemporary perspective of the discipline of cyber security, and current issues, an awareness of the history of the discipline and ability to anticipate future trends.

This degree provides a foundation in cyber security literacy and background technical knowledge plus applied cyber security unit and provides a security mindset and understanding of the current state of the field. This program is designed to be delivered fully online, in intensive terms, to provide a fast-paced pathway.

Upon completion of this program, you may be eligible to articulate into the Master of Cyber Security with courses in this program being credited towards the Master of Cyber Security program.

Why study at UNSW?

The School of Computer Science��and��Engineering has a strong focus on research,��with our world-class research facilities and programs feeding leading-edge discoveries straight into our degrees.

We’re a leading provider of world class education and research; specialising in education for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. The School also continues to produce internationally acclaimed research, working closely with industry to provide innovative solutions to the sector.

Our research culture provides an intellectually rigorous education where you’ll question, test, learn and experiment, making new discoveries along the way.��

UNSW School of Computer Science and Engineering’s��research is internationally recognised with 1st��CSRankings��in Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Databases, Embedded & Real-Time Systems and Operating Systems��
We have a five-star rating for employability, helping to guarantee your future��upon graduation��
Many lecturers within the School are world-renowned researchers in their field��
Our School is rated five stars by the Australian Research Council for the research field of Information and Computing Sciences��
We��leverage our��strong industry ties to improve our research, teaching and��students’��learning.��
Our��industry��partners include leading��companies��such as Atlassian,��Commbank,��Google, Honeywell, Microsoft and��WiseTech��Global.��

Experts in Cyber Security

UNSW partnered with CSIRO’s Data61 (then NICTA), to design the OKL4 microkernel which gives computing devices an enhanced level of security. Continued research led to the revolutionary seL4 microkernel, the first operating system mathematically proven to be free of bugs.

Successful real-world applications include Apple iOS devices and other personal electronic devices and military systems, including a Boeing-built optionally-piloted helicopter, an autonomous US Army truck, and a space satellite platform of the US Navy.

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Program Code

5649

Campus

Kensington

Total Units of Credit (UOC)

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Entry requirements

Cyber Security (Management and Leadership)

Have completed the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

OR
Have completed a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a cognate discipline (e.g. Business, Science or Engineering) with a WAM of 65 or greater (as determined by the UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Score Calculator)

OR
Four years of relevant experience* with demonstrated skills and ability in leadership

*Relevant experience for the Management and Leadership specialisation includes, but is not limited to, the following roles: Business Systems Analyst, Front end developer, Application coder, Game designer, Cyber Security Analyst, Software Developer, Consultant in Risk or Business, Penetration Tester, Security Team Manager, Digital Forensics specialist, Cyber Security Change and Awareness Manager, Cyber Security Outreach Trainer, Private Investigator, Specialist Police and Military roles, Financial Analyst, Forensic Accountant, Computer Systems or Information Auditor, Data Privacy, Electronics Technician, Project Manager, Executive Officer, Technical Manager, Analyst.

Cyber Security (Security Engineering)

Completed the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

OR
Have completed a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a cognate discipline (e.g. Business, Science or Engineering) with a WAM of 65 or greater (as determined by the UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Score Calculator)

OR
Four years of relevant experience* with demonstrated skills and ability in leadership.

*Relevant experience for the Security Engineering specialisation includes, but is not limited to, the following roles: Business Systems Analyst, Front End Developer, Application Coder, Game Designer, Cyber Security Analyst, Software Developer, Consultant in Risk or Business, Penetration Tester, Security Team Manager, Digital Forensics Specialist, Cyber Security Change and Awareness Manager, Cyber Security Outreach Trainer, Private Investigator, Specialist Police and Military roles, Financial Analyst, Forensic Accountant, Computer Systems or Information Auditor, Data Privacy, Electronics Technician, Project Manager, Executive Officer, Technical Manager, Analyst, Systems Administrator, Network or Telecommunications Engineer.

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English language requirements

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You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

English language tests and university English courses
Prior study in the medium of English
Other qualifications

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

Cyber Security (Management and Leadership)

Have completed the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

OR
Have completed a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a cognate discipline (e.g. Business, Science or Engineering) with a WAM of 65 or greater (as determined by the UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Score Calculator)

OR
Four years of relevant experience* with demonstrated skills and ability in leadership

Cyber Security (Security Engineering)

Completed the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

OR
Have completed a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a cognate discipline (e.g. Business, Science or Engineering) with a WAM of 65 or greater (as determined by the UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Score Calculator)

OR
Four years of relevant experience* with demonstrated skills and ability in leadership.

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English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

Select from the options below

Which applies to you?

Program structure

The��Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security program comprises eight online courses, with the option of selecting from a Management and Leadership or Security Engineering specialisation.

The Graduate Diploma program consists of four foundation courses, three specialisation electives, and one elective of choice.��

Full program structure

The Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security provides a foundation in cyber security literacy and background technical knowledge plus applied cyber security courses relevant to their specialisation. This program is fast-paced, fully online learning experience.

You’ll commence the program by studying four foundational courses:

Foundations of Cyber Security��
Cybersecurity Ethics
Principles in Security Engineering
Data Security and Privacy

You can choose from two specialisations, or .

Security Management and Leadership relates to the emerging human, socio-technical and leadership aspects of cyber security. It will instill the skills and understanding of managing a team of cyber security professionals. You’ll be able to understand and contribute to the wider field of cybersecurity.

The stream of Security Engineering specifically relates to the highly technical aspects of the field and focuses on producing software-literate graduates to work on the computer, networking and applied aspects of cybersecurity.

In both specialisations you’ll be able to choose three specialisation electives and one related elective of choice.

Upon completion of this program, you may be eligible to articulate into the Master of Cyber Security with courses in this program being credited towards the master’s program.

Future careers

This degree can offer you the specialised knowledge to pursue careers as a Security Consultant, Engineering, ICT and Science Technicians and Engineering Manager to name a few.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through our��portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and Faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date.��.

Ready to start your application?

For most international students, applications are submitted via��our  service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement��date. For��more information visit��our .

Ready to start your application?

Fees & Scholarships

2025 Indicative First Year Full Fee

$30,000*

2025 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree

$40,500*

*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.

Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).

You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the .

2025 Indicative First Year Fee

$30,000*

2025 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree

$40,500*

*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the��.

Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.

Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit��.

Scholarships

At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.