Diploma of Conservation and Land Management
This course has been discontinued - this course is closed for new enrolments, the information on this page is provided for continuing students.
The Diploma of Conservation and Land Management is a hands-on course that provides students with a broad knowledge of environmental science. Students learn how to develop management strategies for the sustainable use of our natural resources. They gain skills in surveying fauna and flora, waterway testing and restoration, erosion and sediment control, project management and community engagement. Students also participate in a range of field studies.
This course is currently in transition. The course code, title, units and content may change. Further information will become available on our website, upon enrolment or during your studies. To discuss your study options, please get in touch with us today.
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Duration
1.5 years full-time and 2 years part-time - VET Mar Intake (01/03/2021) and VET Aug Intake (26/07/2021).
Study modes
- Full-time,
- Part-time (day & evening)
VTAC course code
- 3401070754 (fee type determined by provider)

This is a nationally approved vocational course that is recognised throughout Australia.
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
This practical hands-on course provides students with a solid grounding in conservation and land management in line with current industry standards. Field studies are an integral part of the course. Full-time students have the opportunity to attend two major camps during their course at no extra cost. Day excursions are also included in the fees.
Course structure
Students undertake a range of competencies. A total of 10 elective units of competency must be successfully completed. With a substantial practical component in the course, participants may be required to work and liaise with a range of community, government and professional organisations and individuals to achieve competence.
Units of study
Students may choose a minimum of 10 electives from the following list:
Develop a water quality monitoring program (AHCNRM502)
Prepare reports (AHCWRK503)
Conduct biological surveys (AHCNAR502)
Collect and classify plants (AHCPCM502)
Conduct field research into natural and cultural resources (AHCILM501)
Manage fauna populations (AHCFAU501)
Develop environmentally sustainable tourism operations (SITTPPD002)
Develop interpretive activities (SITTPPD002)
Maintain work health and safety processes (AHCWRK401)
Plan river restoration works (AHCNAR505)
Design a natural area restoration project (AHCNAR503)
Monitor biodiversity (AHCLPW405)
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Students will have the opportunity to apply for Parks Victoria Summer Rangers positions and Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Project Fire Fighter positions.
Aims and objectives
Students have the opportunity to develop a broad knowledge in environmental science and to specialise in the development of management strategies for the sustainable use of our resources.

Graduate skills
The Diploma of Conservation and Land Management reflects the role of personnel working in management positions with technical level skill in land management roles.
Pathways and scholarships
- Pathways, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.

Award-winning year for Swinburne Conservation and Land Management students
Swinburne Conservation and Land Management students Bivek and Shanon were both recognised for their commitment to environmental stewardship in 2019.
Course fees and requirements
- Fees, entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
A VET Student Loan is available for this course – allowing you to defer part of your fees if you're eligible.
The maximum VET Student Loan amount for this course is $16,221. You must start repaying this loan once you earn above the compulsory repayment threshold.
Diploma of Conservation and Land ManagementEstimated course fees for 2022* |
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For students who are not granted a Skills First government-subsidised place | For students who are granted a Skills First government-subsidised place | Is this a Free TAFE course? | |
You will need to pay this amount if you do not receive a VET Student Loan | $19,800 | $11,540 | This course is not eligible for Free TAFE |
You will need to pay this amount if you do receive a VET Student Loan | $3,579 | Fully Covered | This course is not eligible for Free TAFE |
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
You could be granted a Skills First government-subsidised place when you apply for this course. Check your eligibility now.
Concession rates for Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs are also available if you self-identify as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and qualify for a government-subsidised training place under the Indigenous Completions Initiative.
The eligibility criteria are set by the Victorian Government and assessed by Swinburne in accordance with government directives, which are subject to change at any time.
Find out if you’re eligible for a fee concession here.
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
Indicative nominal course hours: 1,290.
Entry requirements
Applicants require a minimum of Year 12 completion or equivalent.
Applicants without formal qualifications but with significant relevant work or volunteer experience are welcome to apply.
How to apply
Find out more
Tel: 1300 SWINBURNE
Training Organisation Identifier (TOID): 3059