Program Overview

Diploma of Dementia Care (M1D)

Overview

The Diploma of Dementia Care is a nationally recognised diploma that aims to deepen expertise, boost careers, and help deliver truly person-centred care in homes, hospitals, and communities. This course has been developed by the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, global leaders in dementia education.

Duration and Location

• Minimum 1 Year, up to a maximum of 4 years
• This course is available to study as both part-time or full-time
• Location: Online
• Semester 1, Semester 2

Course Structure

Core Units

• CAD005 - Neurospeak Online
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 1, Semester 2
• CAD101 - Ageing, the Brain and Dementia
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 1, Trimester
• CAD104 - Principles of Supportive Care for People With Dementia
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 1
• CAD115 - Health Services for an Ageing Population
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 1
• CAD116 - Introduction to Therapeutic Approaches for Dementia
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 2
• CAD117 - Effective Communication for Dementia Care
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 1
• CAD122 - Culturally Respectful and Safe Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Dementia
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 2

Core Choice Unit

• Choose one of these options based on your previous education experience:
  1. CAD003 - Foundations of University Study in Dementia Care
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 1, Semester 2
  2. CAD121 - The Global Challenge of Understanding Dementia
  • Credit Points: 12.5
  • Location: Online
  • Study period: Semester 2

Entry Requirements

Domestic Students

• This course is open access
• Domestic applicants with work and life experience can complete a personal competency statement
• Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis
• No formal pre-requisites, but a good level of computer competency and willingness to engage in online learning is highly recommended

International Students

• All international students will need to meet the minimum English Language Requirements
• English Language Requirements: IELTS (Academic) of 6.5, with no individual band less than 6.5, or a PTE Academic score of 58, with no score lower than 58 or equivalent
• General Entry Requirements: This is an open access course
• Course Specific Requirements: Students must have access to a computer, reliable internet connection, webcam, headset, and microphone

Fees & Scholarships

Domestic Students

• Commonwealth Supported Place indicative annual fee: $11,141
• HECS-HELP loans: You may be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government
• The Diploma of Dementia Care is available with 100% HECS tuition fee scholarship for eligible domestic students studying in 2026

International Students

• 2026 Total Tuition Fee (international students): $14,450 AUD

Career Outcomes

• A vital aspect of dementia care is providing an enabling environment, especially in long-term care facilities
• Over 400,000 Australians are currently living with dementia; this number increases every year
• Individuals with backgrounds in healthcare, community service, and allied health may find study in this course advantageous
• The Diploma of Dementia Care is particularly relevant to aged care workers and health professionals wishing to develop their knowledge of dementia

Learning Outcomes

• Describe structure, function, and dysfunction of the nervous system in the major diseases causing dementias
• Discuss the multidisciplinary evidence for approaches to optimise the health and social care of older people including those living with dementia
• Explain collaborative, person-centred approaches to inclusion, support, and care of diverse people living with dementia and their families