No. A graduate diploma is AQF Level 8 and typically one year of study. A master’s is AQF Level 9 and usually one and a half to two years, with deeper specialisation and often a research component. Many graduate diplomas provide credit toward a related master’s. A graduate diploma is postgraduate study, but it’s shorter and less detailed than a master’s degree. A master’s often includes more advanced coursework and research.
Master’s degrees can open higher-level roles and meet professional accreditation needs in fields like engineering or teaching. Graduate diplomas deliver targeted skills for career advancement or transition. For international students, only degrees are generally eligible for the 485 post-study work visa, not standalone graduate diplomas.
Map a staged pathway if you want both speed and post-study work rights: start with a graduate diploma, then continue to a master’s. Compare graduate diplomas and master’s courses in Australia.
While you’re here, you can check out our Graduate Diploma Courses too
