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Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies

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Duration
  • 1 year (or part-time equivalent)
Location
  • Online
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Fees
  • AUD 16,992
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Overview

  • Gain a strong foundational knowledge of how to study at university with UniSQ’s Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies. This formal university qualification is ideal if you haven’t completed Year 12, are wanting to explore a specific study area, or are new or returning to study.  
  • Learn study management strategies, gain reflective and analytical skills and enhance your communication and writing abilities. 
  • Benefit from flexible learning and study core courses online so you can balance work, life and family commitments. You can progress at your own pace by selecting how many courses to study in each of the three study periods throughout the year. 
  • Sample a study area of interest by choosing one of eight specialisations. Once you have successfully completed your study (and provided you meet all the entry requirements) you can transfer directly into a UniSQ undergraduate degree to reach your career goals. Your studies can also count as credit toward your undergraduate degree.

A dedicated university

UniSQ is a dedicated university and wants all its students to be successful.

Colette - Pathways

Career outcomes

As a graduate, you will be provided with general knowledge in preparation for a career in several areas, depending on the courses you choose to study. This includes careers within business, construction, science, engineering, humanities and liberal arts industries. 

Upon completion of this diploma, you can graduate with a university qualification or, if eligible, transfer directly into an undergraduate degree to pursue your career goals. These UniSQ degrees include: 

Why study Pathways at UniSQ?

Flexible learning

Study your core courses online so you can balance work, life and family commitments.

Sample a study area

Choose from one of eight specialisations and once you're done, transfer directly into a UniSQ undergraduate degree.

Quality student support

You'll have access to a range of support including academic advising, personal counselling, career guidance, and study skills workshops.

What you'll study

To graduate from the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies, you must successfully complete 8 units of study.

Degree structure

An undergraduate university degree typically consists of a combination of core, major and elective courses designed to provide you with foundational knowledge and opportunities for an in-depth deeper dive into your chosen field.

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Students who want to progress to the specialisations in Construction, Engineering, Spatial Science, or Science need to complete DIP1003. Students who want to progress to the specialisations in Business and Commerce or Social Studies need to complete DIP1004. Students who want to progress to the specialisations in Indigenous Community Development or Creative Arts need to complete MDS1004. Students who want to progress to the Education Study Area need to complete DIP1004. Students studying listed elective courses should study the core course most relevant to their discipline area.
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The remaining 4 units can be taken from any of the specialisations listed below. Students who wish to use the program as a pathway to other studies must also consult with the Program Coordinator of the program they wish to articulate into, to ensure the courses chosen provide a suitable pathway.

Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Business and Commerce) are eligible to apply for direct entry into a range of UniSQ undergraduate degrees, including the Bachelor of Business. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Construction) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate construction degrees, including the Bachelor of Construction (Honours). Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Creative Arts) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate arts degrees, including Bachelor of Creative Arts and Community Wellbeing, Bachelor of Film and Screen Production, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Television and Radio Production, Bachelor of Theatre, Bachelor of Visual Art, or Bachelor of Arts. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Engineering) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate engineering degrees, including the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Engineering Technology. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Indigenous Community Development) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate arts degrees. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students must select four courses from the following selection. Students may select an alternative elective with the approval of the Program Co-ordinator. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection. Students may select an alternative elective with the approval of the Program Co-ordinator.
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Science) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate degrees, including the Bachelor of Science. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. Some courses have a compulsory residential school. PHY1104 Physics 1 can only be completed by students who have completed Mathematical Methods (Units 3 & 4, C) or equivalent. Students who have not completed Mathematical Methods (Units 3 & 4, C) or equivalent must complete MAT1100 Foundation Mathematics or equivalent prior to enrolling in PHY1104 Physics 1. PHY1104 Physics 1 has a required mathematics co-requisite. Please refer to the Course Specifications for more details. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Social Studies) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate degrees, including the Bachelor of Human Services. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (Spatial Science) are eligible to apply for direct entry into selected UniSQ undergraduate Surveying degrees, including the Bachelor of Surveying Technology. Courses studied in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies could also count as credit toward this undergraduate program. The number of units of credit will depend on the major and courses studied with a maximum of eight credits being available. After completing the four compulsory courses, students can select four courses (subject to any pre-requisite requirements) from the following selection:
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The remaining 4 units can be taken from any of the courses listed in the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (DMDS) program. Students who wish to use the program as a pathway to other studies must also consult with the Program Coordinator of the program they wish to articulate into, to ensure the courses chosen provide a suitable pathway. Students who wish to use the program as a pathway to Education must complete the following Education courses as their elective courses. Students studying these Education courses should consult with the Program Coordinator of the program they wish to articulate into, to ensure the courses chosen provide a suitable pathway.
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Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for detailed recommended enrolment patterns and course availability.

Other study options

As a graduate, you will be eligible to apply for direct entry into a range of UniSQ undergraduate degrees and your studies could also count as credit toward your undergraduate degree.

Entry requirements

There are many ways to be considered for entry into a UniSQ degree based on your education, work experience and relevant personal attributes.

To be eligible

Select the highest level of education you have or will be completing to find the entry requirements that applies to you.

To be eligible for entry, you must be at least 18 years of age in the year of the proposed enrolment.

All applicants

You'll need to meet the applicable English language requirements and this degree requires:

  • International applicants must have a minimum entry level of IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.

Alternative English language proficiency tests may also be accepted.

Entry pathways

There is more than one way to get into university, and if you're not sure about your entry options get in touch to discuss.

Fees and scholarships

Commonwealth supported AUD 16,992
The Federal Government contributes to the cost of your degree, and you need to pay a student contribution.

If you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen (resident in Australia), holder of either Australian Permanent Residency or Australian Permanent Humanitarian visas, you have access to fee-free places in this program.

Fee-free places are granted for the duration of the program.

Additional costs

You may be required to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee as part of your degree cost.

Payment options

You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP is a government loan scheme that allows you to defer payment until your income reaches a certain threshold. Find out if you are eligible for HECS-HELP.

You may also be eligible to receive financial support from Services Australia.

UniSQ Scholarships

We offer scholarships for academic excellence, community leadership, and financial need - you can apply for more than one!

Find out more

How to apply

You can apply to study at UniSQ via the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) website.

  1. Copy the QTAC code for the study location you've chosen for this degree.
  2. Click on the location you’ve chosen in the below table to take you to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) website.
  3. Select 'Apply Now' to create a QTAC account.
Apply
Degree code
DMDS

Some applicants may be eligible to apply directly to UniSQ if they meet certain criteria. Explore the application process that’s right for you.

You can select to start your study in Trimester 1, 2 or 3.

Study period  Application closing date Orientation  Start date
Trimester 1, 2025  Monday 10 February Monday 3 February  Monday 10 February 
Trimester 2, 2025 Monday 26 May Monday 19 May Monday 26 May 
Trimester 3, 2025 Monday 8 September Monday 1 September Monday 8 September
Trimester 1, 2026  Monday 16 February Monday 9 February  Monday 16 February 

More information on application key dates is available.

Preparing to apply

You've made the decision to study at UniSQ - congratulations! Take the next steps:

Each degree has unique entry requirements so it’s essential to know the specifics for your chosen degree.

Application dates can vary so be sure to check our key dates to get all the details.

Apply online directly to UniSQ for your chosen pathway program.

After you’ve submitted your application, you will be emailed a reference number. You will be notified via email the outcome of your application within 10 business days.

Follow the link in your email from UniSQ or log in to the application portal to accept your offer.

Find out more

Connect with us - start a conversation, whenever suits you.

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Email

Email us at study@unisq.edu.au

Appointment

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Frequently asked questions

A diploma at university is an undergraduate qualification and is the perfect introductory degree to give you a taste of university life. A Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies is more detailed than a certificate but less comprehensive and faster to complete than an associate degree or bachelor degree.

At UniSQ, you can choose from eight different specialisations.

Business and Commerce – Begin your introduction to business studies and develop your English, analysis and mathematics skills. Select your courses based on your personal and career goals and choose to study marketing, accounting, economics, law or finance.

Construction – Develop your knowledge and skills in construction management, engineering and the built environment. Continue your studies and use your Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies qualification as a stepping-stone into UniSQ’s Bachelor of Construction (Honours).

Creative Arts – Sample Creative Arts specialisations such as Music, Theatre, Creative Media and Visual Arts courses, all while developing transferable skills in writing, mathematics and IT.

Engineering – Discover what studying engineering is like at the university education level. An Engineering specialisation within the Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies will enable you to strengthen your skills in problem solving, math and physics.

Indigenous Community Development – Commence your career in social services by gaining an understanding of the key issues, principles and theories that impact Indigenous communities. Choose to study a variety of courses within history, Indigenous literacies, anthropology or community welfare.

Science – A science diploma at university will introduce you to bite-size courses in a variety of fields to help you decide which science specialisation is right for you. At UniSQ you can sample four courses from a number of science areas including astronomy, biology, maths and psychology. You can even use your Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies qualification to gain direct entry into the Bachelor of Science.

Social Science – Explore social sciences, ethical issues and human rights, psychology or anthropology during your Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies. If you choose to expand your knowledge further after completing your Social Science diploma, you will be eligible for entry into UniSQ’s Bachelor of Human Services.

Spatial Science – Enhance your understanding of Spatial Science at the university level by exploring exciting courses focused on Surveying, Urban and Regional Planning and Engineering and Spatial Science applications.

Still unsure what specialisation is best for you? Get in touch with one of our iconnect support staff to talk through your options.

Yes it does! At an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 5, a diploma at university is all about providing you with the foundations needed to thrive in higher education or your work environment.

By studying a Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies you will be able to explore study areas of interest and receive credits for when you are ready to transition into a bachelor degree. A diploma at university introduces you to the academic environment of uni studies and is a great way to further yourself, both personally and professionally without committing to a full undergraduate degree.

The main difference between a diploma at university and a bachelor degree are:

  • Duration - in most cases, a diploma can be completed in one year (full-time study), whereas a bachelor degree takes three or four years, depending on what you choose to study.
  • Entry requirements - a Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies has fewer entry requirements than a bachelor degree and usually only requires an ATAR. If you don’t have an ATAR, we can derive a selection rank based on your prior study, work experience or professional qualifications.
  • Study focus - when you study a diploma at university you gain foundational knowledge that can be apply directly to the job market or to further study. Whereas a bachelor degree provides you with a more solid knowledge base and preparation for a professional career and postgraduate study.

The entry requirements for a Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies will vary depending on the education provider you choose to study with.

At UniSQ the only entry requirement you need to study a diploma at university is to be 18 years or older.

Yes! Our Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies is studied online and at the pace that suits you and your lifestyle. As an online student, you’ll receive the same level of support as an on-campus student. The only difference - you’re in control of when, where and how you learn.

Balance your life, work and family commitments by studying the number of courses that works for you. If circumstances change, you can adjust your subject enrolment to meet your needs. Take one subject at a time, study over summer, or take extra subjects when life allows it. Discover more about the different ways you can study at UniSQ.

The Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies at UniSQ will take you approximately one-year to complete. Some students choose to study part-time which increases the time it takes to finish the required courses.

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