Program Overview

Graduate Diploma in Food Science and Technology

Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Food Science and Technology is a one-year full-time or equivalent part-time study program that aims to broaden students' knowledge of food science and increase their professional status in the industry. The program is designed to provide students with up-to-date knowledge in areas such as food safety and preservation, chemistry, microbiology, and food processing.

Admission Criteria

• A bachelor degree or equivalent in science, engineering, nutrition, environmental health, home economics, agriculture, or other appropriate disciplines.
• Applicants with other qualifications and experience are considered but may be required to complete additional bridging units.

English Requirements

• IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System):
  • Writing: 6.0
  • Speaking: 6.0
  • Reading: 6.0
  • Listening: 6.0
  • Overall band score: 6.0

Fees and Scholarships

• Domestic fee-paying postgraduate:
  • 2025 Fee year: $27,398*
  • *Fees are indicative only. Based on a first-year full-time study load of 200 credits. The total cost will depend on your course options (i.e., units selected and time taken to complete).

Location

• Curtin Perth

How to Apply

• Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice.
• Each campus has different application deadlines. View our application deadlines page for further information.

Course Structure

• The program consists of 200 credits (approximately eight units) per year, with 100 credits (approximately four units) in each semester.
• Students will take specialised coursework units, complemented by laboratory classes and food industry site visits.

What You'll Learn

• Apply the principles and practices of food sciences and technology to the production, preservation, and distribution of safe and healthy food.
• Apply logical and rational processes to critically analyse issues relevant to food; use appropriate technologies effectively, recognising their advantages and limitations.
• Access, critically evaluate, and synthesise information from a wide range of resources using appropriate technologies and use oral and written communication effectively to their peers.
• Recognise international standards and practices within the discipline and engage in food-related issues that occur globally.
• Value cultural diversity and recognise the impact of culture on food preferences and usage.
• Engage in self-directed learning and exhibit professional behaviour when working independently and collaboratively.

Research Areas

• Food safety and preservation
• Chemistry
• Microbiology
• Food processing

Duration

• One year full-time or equivalent part-time study.

CRICOS Code

• K

Credit for Recognised Learning (CRL)

• Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.
• Submit an enquiry CRL search.

Essential Requirements for Admission

• Communicable diseases
• Criminal record screening and clearance

Deadlines for Applying Direct to Curtin

• Semester 1, 2025: Applications now closed!
• Semester 2, 2025: Applications now open! (Close on 9 July 2025)
• Semester 1, 2026: Applications now open! (Close on 3 February 2026)
• Semester 2, 2026: Applications open on 6 April 2026 (Close on 2 July 2026)