Graduate Diploma in Local Government
Source: https://www.uts.edu.au/courses/graduate-diploma-in-local-government Parent: https://www.uts.edu.au/for-students/design-architecture-and-building/local-government
Agile local leadership
In the dynamic context of rapid technological and socioeconomic change, the local government sector needs agile leaders and managers who have a strategic understanding of the evolving needs and priorities of both the councils and the communities they serve.
The Graduate Diploma in Local Government is an innovative postgraduate program, designed to improve the capabilities of local government professionals.
It offers a distinctive blend of academic insights, practitioner-based learning and actionable research application.
You'll be able to access to a combination of both general and specialist study units via flexible delivery modes.
Part of the Faculty of Design and Society.
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Graduate Diploma in Local Government
CODE
UTS: C06033 (version 6)
CRICOS: 087648G
DURATION
1 year full time\ 2 years part time
INTAKE question_mark These are dates to consider when applying for your course, including when applications open and close.
Autumn Session 2026\ Spring Session 2026\ Autumn Session 2027\ Spring Session 2027
COURSE FEES question_mark This indicative tuition fee is an estimate for the entire course, based on full-time study each year. Fees are reviewed annually and may change.
Indicative total tuition fee for domestic students\ $27,735.00
LOCATION question_mark Our classes are held at our City Campus, or specialist off-campus locations. Some of our courses are delivered via online (distance) learning.
City campus
What you’ll study
Tailored to the local government context, this course enables you to develop a study plan that matches the requirements of your professional development needs and interest areas.
The program is highly applicable to contemporary local government issues with a range of general and specialist subjects to choose from that can be studied alongside workplace commitments.
On completion of the course, you’ll have a sound understanding of current issues in local government and diverse communities, as well as an ability to relate this knowledge to your workplace.
Subjects at a glance
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Core subjects
| Subject Code | Subject Name |
|---|---|
| 15604 | Local Government Principles and Practice |
| 15608 | Organising and Managing in Local Government |
| 15623 | Local Government Research Planning |
| 15624 | Local Government Research Practice |
See all subjects and majors in the UTS Handbook arrow_right_alt
Admissions information
Admissions information
Use the buttons to expand or collapse the section.
-
Course description
In the dynamic context of rapid technological and socioeconomic change, the local government sector needs agile leaders who bring a high level of professional expertise and a diverse set of managerial and organisational skills. In addition, leaders and managers need to have a strategic understanding of the evolving needs and priorities of both the councils and the communities they serve.
The Graduate Diploma in Local Government is an innovative postgraduate program from the Centre for Local Government at the Institute for Public Policy and Governance UTS. Designed to elevate the professional capabilities of local government professionals, this diploma offers a distinctive blend of academic insights, practitioner based learning, and actionable research application. Underpinned by principles of public service, it provides a unique opportunity for local government professionals to expand their knowledge and competencies within a collaborative peer learning environment.
Tailored to the local government context, the course enables students to develop a study plan that matches the requirements of their professional development needs and interest areas. The program is highly applicable to contemporary local government issues with a range of general and specialist subjects to choose from that can be studied alongside workplace commitments. Graduates can make a real difference to their council and shape more positive outcomes for communities, council organisations and their career by strengthening their leadership and governance capabilities with a Graduate Diploma in Local Government. - ### Important dates
Find out more about application dates relating to this course - ### Scholarships and prizes
Discover our scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate and research students. Our scholarships celebrate diversity and academic excellence. Use the scholarship search tool to find the right scholarship for you.
Scholarships for domestic students
Scholarships for international students - ### Course duration
This course is normally offered on a two-year, part-time basis or one-year full-time - ### Admission requirements
To be eligible for admission to this course, applicants must meet the following criteria.
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Completed Australian bachelor's degree or higher qualification, or overseas equivalent
OR
- A minimum of 3 years full-time, or equivalent part-time, relevant professional work experience
Supporting documentation to be submitted with the application
For applicants who need to demonstrate professional work experience:
- Curriculum VitaeAND Statement of service in one of the following formats:
- A 'Statement of Service' provided by the employer
- A completed 'UTS statement of service' signed by the employer
- A statutorydeclarationconfirming professional work experience (for Australian Residents only)
- An official letter from the applicant's accountant or solicitor on their company letterhead confirming the applicant's professional work experience or engagement with the business, duration of operations, and the nature of the business
- A business certificate of registration in original language and English (e.g. provision of ASIC documentation or ABN or similar documentation for Australian Businesses)
Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: overall 6.5, writing 6.0 TOEFL iBT: overall 79, writing 21 UTS College AE5: Pass Pearson PTE: overall 58, writing 50 Cambridge C1A/C2P: overall 176, writing 169 - ### Domestic course fees
2026 Indicative tuition fees for domestic students
As a postgraduate student, you'll be responsible for covering your own tuition fees.
2026 Tuition Fee
- Indicative first-year tuition fee: $27,735.00
- Indicative total tuition fee: $27,735.00
You can choose to pay your fees upfront per session, or if you’re eligible, you can defer them using a government FEE-HELP loan. This loan helps you cover all or part of your tuition fees. Keep in mind that applications for this loan are specific to each course.
Additional Costs
Your tuition fees do not include:
- The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), which supports student services and activities. If eligible, you can defer this fee using SA-HELP.
- Textbooks, materials, and other course-related costs.
- Any applicable payment processing fees (e.g., credit card surcharges).
Important Information
- Fees are shown in Australian Dollars (AUD).
- The indicative tuition fees above are based on full-time study (1 year = 48 credit points).
- Your actual fees depend on the year you enrol, your study load and the subjects you choose. Some subjects fall into different student contribution bands.
- You can calculate your student contribution based on the amounts listed in the student contribution table
Alumni Advantage Program
As a UTS graduate, you can enjoy a 10% discount on your course fees. Just apply for the course you're interested in, and if you're accepted, the discount will automatically be applied to your enrolment invoice. Learn more about the Alumni Advantage Program.
If you have any questions about course fees, please feel free to make an enquiry.
Information for Masters by Research students: Government-funded scholarship places available
As a recipient of the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship, you do not have to pay tuition fees for up to the maximum period of candidature. However, even with this scholarship, you should expect ongoing costs that aren’t covered, like travel, training, and professional development. These costs can vary for each person, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Additionally, scholarships are available to help with your living expenses.
Important details: The RTP Fees Offset Scholarship covers your tuition fees, but please note that it doesn’t include additional costs related to studying or conducting research. Additional fees for domestic students. For more information visit Research student fees. - ### Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are academic and non-academic requirements that are essential for successfully completing a course at UTS. You can find the inherent requirements for your course via the inherent requirements directory. - ### Recognition of prior learning
Students who have completed relevant previous studies (such as relevant postgraduate studies at a recognised institution or eligible UTS short courses) may apply to the course coordinator for recognition of prior learning (RPL). - ### Articulation with UTS courses
Students who complete the Graduate Diploma in Local Government may be eligible to articulate into the UTS Business School MBA Local Government Leadership sub-major (SMJ10076).
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Entry schemes and pathways
### Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
At UTS, we understand the dedication it takes to reach your current position – forging a path through prior study, work, and diverse learning experiences.
### Jumbunna Admission Program
If you're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Jumbunna is an alternative application process for our courses that emphasises diverse pathways to success.
### Changing from another postgraduate course
You can apply for our courses using your previous study. You may even be eligible for recognition of prior learning, so you won’t need to repeat subjects.
Where you’ll study
Our world-class facilities support your future-focused learning and high-impact research. They enable effective partnerships with industry and provide services to our community.
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Our faculty has 6 main computer labs with 218 computers that run Mac (78 computers) and Windows (140 computers) operating systems. They are equipped with software used in Design, Architecture and Building courses.
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Our campus is a base for your academic, professional and social life.
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