Program Overview

Graduate Diploma in Strength and Conditioning

Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Strength and Conditioning is a one-year full-time course designed to equip students with the latest skills and knowledge in strength, speed, and endurance. Developed in collaboration with the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA), this course enables students to work with elite, professional, and amateur athletes, including diverse populations such as para-athletes and athletes of different ages, backgrounds, and identities.

Key Facts

• Award: Graduate Diploma in Strength and Conditioning
• Start dates: 23 February 2026
• Duration: 1 year full-time
• Learning mode: Multi-Modal (combination of face-to-face, online, and placement/intensive subjects)
• Scholarships: Available, with details provided on the La Trobe University website
• Fees: $35,600 per 120 credit points (note: 120 credit points represent full-time study for one year)

About the Course

This course is designed for those who want to work with athletes or enhance their existing skills as a practitioner. Students will learn from expert academics and industry leaders, gaining the latest best practices in strength and conditioning. The course includes online learning and in-person classes at La Trobe's premier sport and exercise facilities in Melbourne, utilizing the latest technology and research facilities.

What You'll Study

To qualify for the award, students must complete 120 credit points across one year, including:

• Assessment and Development: Designing and implementing training plans to improve athletes' physical characteristics.
• Training and Monitoring: Identifying and monitoring key determinants of sport-specific performance and manipulating overall training workload.
• High-Performance Management: Working in high-performance environments and designing training plans across various sports and performance levels.
• Coaching: Developing meaningful relationships with athletes and working with stakeholders to improve performance.

Course Structure

The course structure includes core subjects such as:

• ACADEMIC INTEGRITY MODULE
• COACHING PRINCIPLES, PRACTICE AND PROCESSES
• DEVELOPING SPEED, AGILITY AND ENDURANCE
• DEVELOPING STRENGTH AND POWER
• HIGH PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
• INTEGRATED PROGRAMMING IN SPORT
• PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING AND MONITORING
• PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE IN STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING
• RESEARCH AND EVIDENCE IN STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Work-Based Learning

The course includes compulsory placements (Work-Based Learning) designed to practice newly acquired skills in professional settings.

Entry Requirements and Pathways

• Academic Entry Requirement: Successful completion of an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent) with a specialisation in sport and/or exercise science or a related field. Alternatively, a strength and conditioning qualification endorsed by a recognised body.
• Credit for Previous Study: Available, with the amount of credit depending on the level and relevance of previous study.
• Defer: Eligibility to defer depends on the course and can be checked on the La Trobe University website.

Career Outcomes

Graduates will be equipped to work with elite and amateur athletes in various settings, including professional sports teams, performance training organisations, and private practice. The course also serves as a direct pathway into the Master of Strength and Conditioning.

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated Course Fees: $35,600 per 120 credit points for domestic postgraduate students.
• Scholarships: Various scholarships are available, including the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Nursing Scholarships Program, La Trobe Greater China Digital Health Scholarship, and more. Details and eligibility criteria can be found on the La Trobe University website.

How to Apply

The application process can vary depending on the course. Most postgraduate courses take 15 to 20 minutes to apply for, and students can apply for up to two postgraduate courses. Advanced standing (credit for previous study) can be applied for after enrollment.