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Diploma in Health
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education- Completed a secondary education qualification equivalent to SACE, such as an interstate year 12 or international qualification
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate III or above
OR
Work and life experience
Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have work experience, orComplete a University enabling program or equivalent, or
Qualify for Special Entry
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
The one-year Diploma in Health will build your study skills and give you the experience and confidence to study at a degree level.
- Get the skills and confidence to succeed in any university degree.
- Learn how to evaluate and solve problems.
- Develop critical thinking and computer skills.
- Study health subjects at first-year uni level and gain up to two credits towards a health degree.
- Explore opportunities to work in health.
- Graduate with a GPA so you can apply to study almost any degree, at any university.
Snapshot
Our Diploma in Health is a one-year program that will prepare you for university study and give you a head start on a bachelor degree in health. It’s the perfect starting point for anyone who’s new to study, returning after time away, or looking for a clear path to a university degree.
A Diploma in Health can give you up to two credits towards a bachelor degree in a health discipline and you’ll be eligible to apply to any UniSA degree, whether online or on campus. You’ll also earn a grade point average (GPA), which can give you easier access to highly competitive degrees like pharmacy and medical radiation science. And your qualifications will be recognised nationally, so you can apply to almost any degree program, at any university, around the country.
You’ll learn skills for effective study and critical thinking alongside core health courses like anatomy, biosciences and human physiology. A Student Adviser will create a personalised learning plan for you and help you choose health electives that will take you closer to your work or study goals.
Take full control over your study with this 100% online health diploma. Everything, from your course content to weekly activities and assessments, is online. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be alone.
Our highly experienced team are online seven days a week. They’re here to help with your course materials, provide feedback on your work, and answer any questions. We have a 24/7 help desk and you’ll be able to log into our interactive online environment anywhere, any time and on any device to fit.
Support will be waiting no matter when you need it.
What you'll learn
Our Diploma in Health will give you a great start to university life. You’ll study five health topics, beginning with introductory courses in anatomy, human physiology and biosciences. These are paired with courses designed to give you core study and research skills like critical thinking, applied computer practices and approaches to online learning.
You’ll learn how to:
- write academic assignments
- think critically and solve problems
- use Excel to analyse data
- use different computer programs.
You’ll also choose two degree-level health courses to study and put your new writing, communication, and research skills into practice. Health elective courses include:
- The Social World
- Health Systems and Services
- Foundations of Health and Physical Activity
- Foundations of Human Biology
- Foundations of Health and Nutrition
- Health and Society
- Introduction to Mental Health
- Psychology Concepts
- First Peoples’ Health
Study hours
Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.
Some of your assessments may include:
- an industry-relevant project
- an online presentation
- essays and reports.
Why Diploma in Health
This diploma will prepare you for university study by building your academic skills and your confidence. You’ll study some first-year degree courses to give you a taste of university level learning and you could be credited for some study if you transition to a bachelor degree in a health discipline. Plus you’ll gain the foundational skills for successful study at any level.
The diploma is also a great option for school-leavers who weren’t offered a place in their preferred degree program. Graduates can earn a GPA that will give them competitive access to any degree at UniSA or their local university.
Studying a diploma online also gives you the flexibility to study where and when you want, at your own pace. With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 digital environment, you can:
- access your lectures and course resources
- submit your assignments and get feedback
- use forums and discussion boards for teamwork and connection
- fit study around work and life commitments.
Your career
Health diploma graduates can transition into areas like:
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Physiotherapy
- Pharmacy
- Medical radiation science
- Medical sonography
- Sport Sciences
- Human movement
- Biosciences
- Exercise physiology
- Occupational therapy
- Speech pathology
- Podiatry
- Nutrition and food sciences
At UniSA Online, your diploma could earn you up to two credits toward a:
- Bachelor of Community Health
- Bachelor of Public Health
- Bachelor of Health Science
- Bachelor of Health Science (Healthy Ageing)
- Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Exercise)
Join South Australia’s No.1 university for graduate careers in health.1
But the opportunities are endless. With a diploma you can apply to study almost any degree, in any discipline, at any university.
1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019-21, Health Services and Support –Overall Employment Indicator (Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
Your study experience and support
Study On Demand
Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.
- Study 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Choose from four start dates in January, April, June and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- Get support seven days a week - including on weeknights
- Access learning resources 24/7
- View course content before your term starts
- Work while you study
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Fast-track your studies and receive credit for past study and/or work experience.
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
UniSA is ranked as the number one university in Australia for graduate employability.1 Join a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA Online degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career or take it to the next level.
Specifically designed for online learning
Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
Backed by industry
Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.
Expand your professional network from wherever you are
Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.
1 QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey, 2020-22 – Employability Skills Indicator. Public universities.
Student support
Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it.
Dedicated Student Adviser support
Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.
Online academic support seven days a week
You’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing as well as answer any other course-specific queries. You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
24/7 tech support
Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.
24/7 digital environment
Our interactive online environment is a one-stop shop for all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.
Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.
IT Requirements
As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:
- run a modern browser (Microsoft Edge, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java
- run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
- use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
- Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.
Access free IT software and resources
As a UniSA Online student, you'll:
- Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible).
- Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them.
- Get free access to LinkedIn Learning - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
- Be able to connect with others using Microsoft Teams, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.
There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.
Check your device
Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.
See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.
The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:
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Check your eligibility
Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions. -
Gather your relevant documents
If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.
In order to verify your academic qualifications, you'll need to upload relevant documents like your official parchment, certificates or transcripts. If you have work experience, you will need to upload your CV as well as any other documents like work references, professional recognition or accreditation or your training certification.
Your email will contain information on the specific documents you need to provide as well as a link to log in to your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password. -
Complete your application and send through your documents
In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.
Alternative Pathways
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
UniSA College UniSA Foudation Studies
UniSA Online UniStart
Online Course Facilitator
Providing high quality learning experiences that are student-centred and inclusive has been a key focus of my role since becoming a lecturer with UniSA in 2017. I have a strong background in biology and completed my PhD here at UniSA in 2015. My research sought to understand the role of toxins in predator-prey relationships, with a particular focus on how freshwater predators interact with cane toad eggs and tadpoles. What I love most about my current role is getting to share my passion for science with students.
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When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September. There are key application dates for each term. If you're looking to apply for credit, there are different closing dates you need to be aware of, so it's always best to double check. Key dates can be found at unisaonline.edu.au/key-dates.
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Do I have to be online at set times?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has online exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses may also require you to speak to your academics via phone or online communication channels at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
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What academic support is available?
Our academics are available seven days a week, including weeknights. Throughout your degree, you’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing, and can answer any other course-specific queries.
You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
If you need after-hours learning support, Studiosity is a great resource that can help you with your writing, academic language, grammar and referencing. You’ll also be able to chat online with a Studiosity online adviser.
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How is my degree structured?
Full-time students study two courses each term. It makes earning a degree completely achievable, especially if you’re working. Your degree is delivered over four terms each year. Each term runs for ten weeks with two-week breaks in between each term.
You’ll also have the option to go part-time, or switch between the two. If you need to take a break in your study, that’s an option too. We recommend speaking to your Student Adviser who can help you update your study plan and check when your courses are offered.
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What career prospects do I have with my university qualification?
Our degrees are designed in conjunction with industry experts, employers and professional associations, and informed by the latest developments in your field. You will graduate with in demand skills and up-to-date knowledge required by industry.
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. UniSA's online students have graduate employment rates well above the national average.*
UniSA Online qualifications follow the same Government Higher Education Standards Framework as our on-campus degrees. The parchment you receive at the end of your degree will be the same as any other University of South Australia student.
*UniSA External UG full-time employment rate 83% Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018
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What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you gain from each mode of study is the same – it's how you get there that's different. When you study online, everything from your course material to weekly activities and assessments are fully online. You'll communicate with academic staff and students via live messages, online discussion forums and email.
Studying on campus requires students to physically come on to campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. On-campus students have face-to-face contact with academics and fellow students and also communicate via email and online discussion boards.
Distance Education involves physical course material packages being sent to students, usually print based but occasionally audio or video. Communication is usually via telephone, mail and email. In today’s digital era, distance education has been superseded by online education.
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