Diploma of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Overview
Develop practical skills in artificial intelligence, machine learning and generative AI tools for real-world business applications. You'll build AI literacy through prompt engineering, AI content creation, data analysis and forecasting, customer experience optimisation and business process automation.
- Use AI tools to elevate social media marketing
- Create compelling media content
- Build modern brand identities and gain practical, in-demand skills to stand out in today’s digital landscape
This is a nationally approved vocational course that is recognised throughout Australia.
Apply ATAR-free and secure your future
The best move you’ll make in Year 12 is not leaving your future to chance. Apply for Swinburne’s Early Entry Program now and you could secure an offer before exams – no ATAR required.
Skills you’ll learn
- AI foundations
- Core programming concepts
- AI technical expertise
- Analysis of complex AI issues
- Ethical usage of AI
- Socially responsible use of AI
Your career opportunities
- Artificial Intelligence Optimization (AIO) writer
- AI Customer experience manager
- Data and AI sales specialist
- AI ethicist
- AI operations manager
- AI data analyst
Location options
- Hawthorn
- Online
Industry partners
Examinations and certifications may be attempted through these partners where applicable.
Admissions
Applicants for this course must meet the following entry criteria.
- Completed Australian Year 11 or equivalent (e.g. VCE/VET Certificate III, equivalent to units 1 & 2 VCE)
Admission requirements
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee an offer of a place. See admission requirements for general information about the admission process.
Course prerequisites
Language, literacy and numeracy
Applicants are required to complete a language, literacy and numeracy skills assessment as part of the application process. This will assist in determining course suitability and identifying whether additional support may be required.
The approved online skills assessment tool used to determine language, literacy and numeracy skills within the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) is Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB).
The levels required for this course are:
- Language and literacy: 3
- Numeracy: 3
Digital Literacy
Digital capability means being confident and skilled in using technology for learning, communication , and everyday tasks. It’s about knowing how to find information online, use digital tools safely, and create content responsibly. Having strong digital skills helps you study effectively and prepare for the future.
Level required is Intermediate
Your intermediate skills enable you to:
- Use multiple applications and platforms
- Create and edit documents, speadsheets and presentations
- Undertake basis problem-solving skills for common technical issues
- Combine content
- Explain search strategies
- Manage and organise data and files securely
- Apply safe online practices including analysing credibility
Other requirements
This course requires the use of software from Microsoft 365 and Adobe. Swinburne allows students to access this software through the Swinburne system at no cost.
English language requirements
Satisfactory completion of one of the following:
- IELTS overall band of 6.0 (Academic Module) with no individual band below 6.0
- Swinburne’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP 5 Advanced level) with overall 65%, all skills 65% or above
- or equivalent measures available at English language requirements.
Need to undertake an English assessment for entry?
A prerequisite for many courses, the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) can now be done at our Hawthorn campus.
Credit transfer
Credit transfer is a formal recognition process that allows students to receive credit for units of competency achieved through previous accredited study at another registered training organisation (RTO).
The number of credits granted will vary and is based on the:
- unit/s that have been successfully completed
- unit currency and status
- qualification requirements
- relevance to the qualification
- Swinburne policy
Recognition of prior learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the process of transferring the skills and knowledge that you have acquired over your lifetime (irrespective of how they were obtained) against the requirements of the unit.
RPL is an assessment process that requires you to provide evidence that demonstrates how you meet the requirements of the unit/s. The amount and types of evidence you will need to provide will depend on the unit requirements.
Finding your fit
At Swinburne, we recognise that not one size fits all. If this course doesn’t meet all your study criteria, check out these alternatives.
-
Diploma of Information Technology
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Diploma of Business
-
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Diploma of Information Technology (Game Art and Design, Game Programming)
Course structure
Your units
| Units of study | Unit code |
|---|---|
| Core units | |
|
Identify opportunities to apply artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning
Core unit |
ICTAII401 |
|
Apply prompt engineering for generative Artificial Intelligence
Core unit |
NAT11287001 |
|
Use Artificial Intelligence technologies to produce engaging content
Core unit |
NAT11287002 |
|
Analyse data and make forecasts using Artificial Intelligence
Core unit |
NAT11287003 |
|
Optimise a brand's digital presence using Artificial Intelligence
Core unit |
NAT11287004 |
|
Use Artificial Intelligence technologies to enhance business operations
Core unit |
NAT11287005 |
|
Apply Artificial Intelligence technology to improve an organisation's customer experience
Core unit |
NAT11287006 |
|
Apply critical thinking and Artificial Intelligence ethics
Core unit |
NAT11287007 |
Study requirements
On Campus
The Diploma of Artificial Intelligence is delivered on-campus over 8 months of full-time study.
- Blended delivery on campus combined with online learning components, delivered over a longer study period of two full semesters.
Timetable
- Classes run Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 4:30pm with up to 6 hours on-campus and 3 hours online learning per week.
- Student must attend on-campus classes to consolidate learning, supported by online resources via Canvas.
- Scheduled days depend on group allocation
- The course runs over two semesters consisting of 16 weeks delivery per semester. Semester and term breaks are included in the timetable.
Online
The Diploma of Artificial Intelligence is delivered fully online over 5 months of full-time study.
- Fully online delivery completed in a single semester.
Timetable
- Classes consist of one live online session per week (3.5 hours), with the remainder of study completed asynchronously. Faster-paced, covering the same content in one semester rather than two.
- Students work through self-paced modules and guided activities, with the weekly live session used for consolidation and interaction with trainers and peers.
- The course runs over one semester. Semester and term breaks are included in the timetable.
Assessment
- Written questions, projects, practical activities and workplace-style documents, conducted in simulated work environments using workplace-relevant case studies and resources, with AI-based software and platforms used where relevant to reflect current industry practice.
- Students must satisfactorily complete all assessment tasks at set points to demonstrate required skills and knowledge.
2026 fees
Full fee* ($AUD)
$6,590
2026 fees
Yearly fee* ($AUD)
$0.00
Fees are estimates only
Fees published on this page are estimates only and are subject to change depending on individual circumstances at the time of enrolment. The above fees apply for units studied in 2026 only and may change for units studied in future years. There may be additional costs related to learning material and equipment.
Fees are estimates only
The indicative course fees shown apply to international students for the relevant year, based on a standard study load per year. Fees are assessed according to actual study load each semester, with variations to study load resulting in tuition fee adjustments. These fees generally include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and are subject to annual review. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
How do I pay my fees?
You can pay your Swinburne fees in person, via credit card, BPAY, or at Australia Post. Check to see if loans and employer sponsored training are also available.
International students need to pay tuition fees up-front by the relevant due date. You can find the due dates on your Statement of Account.
To pay your fees:
- log in to My Finances
- check your Australian bank account details are correct
- check your Statement of Account to see how much you owe
- pay using your preferred payment method.
Eligibility for VET student loans (VSL)
If you apply for a VET Student Loan, Swinburne must first verify your identity. If you are eligible, we will provide your enrolment information to the government so you can complete the application within their eCAF system.
The VET Student Loan amount for this course is capped. You must start repaying this loan once you earn above the compulsory repayment threshold.
Concessions rates for vocational students
If you’re enrolling in a Certificate IV-level program or below, are eligible for a government-subsidised training place and hold a valid concession card, you may be eligible for a concession of 80 per cent off the published fee of your unit(s) tuition – which means you’ll only be charged 20 per cent of the published fee.
Student services and amenities fee
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
From 1 January 2024, all courses at the Diploma level and higher will contribute to the Student Services and Amenities fee.
Please refer to the Student Services Amenities Fee page for more information.
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
This amenities fee is included within your annual tuition fee listed above. The fee shown is the capped amount for 2026.
Please refer to the Student Services Amenities Fee page for more information.
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$373.00
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$373.00
Scholarships
Scholarship applications for 2026 are open. Scholarships at Swinburne are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. We want you to reach your potential and achieve your life and career goals.
Our handy guide will assist you to gather documents for your application.
When you apply for a Swinburne course, we automatically consider you for an international scholarship of up to 30 per cent off your course fees – no separate application required! Just apply for your Swinburne course of choice and when we review your course application, we will also assess you for an international scholarship.
Apply through an agent
Most international students use an education agent to help them through the application process. Swinburne has agents all over the world that can help you with your application to study. Search for a Swinburne representative in your country. If your country is not listed, please contact us.
Apply directly
Ready to take on a new challenge and reach your academic goals? If you already know which course you want to study and understand the entry requirements, what are you waiting for? Apply online! Remember, you cannot apply direct if you have an active VTAC application.