Curtin University

What you'll study

The programme focuses on the academic language and study skills required for successful tertiary study. Teaching balances core language development with discipline-related academic tasks and assessment formats commonly used at university.

• Academic Reading and Critical Thinking: strategies for reading academic texts, note-taking, summarising, synthesising sources and developing critical evaluation skills.
• Academic Writing and Referencing: paragraph and essay structure, thesis development, coherent argumentation, paraphrasing, summarising and use of referencing conventions (e.g. Harvard/APA style).
• Listening and Note-taking: understanding lectures, seminars and tutorials, listening for gist and detail, and producing usable notes for study and assessment.
• Academic Speaking and Presentations: seminar participation, formal presentations, group discussion skills and academic pronunciation and intonation.
• Grammar for Academic Purposes: targeted grammar revision to support accuracy and complexity in written and spoken academic English.
• Research and Independent Learning Skills: introduction to library resources, academic integrity, basic research methods and preparing for assessments such as literature reviews and research reports.
• Assessment Preparation: practice and feedback on common assessment types including essays, reports, presentations and timed exams; exam and test-taking strategies and, when relevant, preparation for external proficiency tests.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically available to applicants who have completed secondary education or equivalent and who demonstrate the required level of English for the diploma. Applicants may provide an approved English proficiency test score (for example IELTS, TOEFL or PTE) at the level specified by Curtin or sit Curtin’s internal placement test.

Other standard requirements include evidence of prior study or qualifications appropriate for tertiary pathways and meeting minimum age and enrolment conditions. Successful completion of the Diploma of English for Academic Purposes can be used as a pathway into many Curtin undergraduate programs; specific entry conditions for degree programmes remain subject to the requirements of the receiving faculty.

Career prospects

While the diploma is primarily a pathway and skills-building qualification rather than a vocational credential, graduates gain capabilities that enhance performance across a wide range of study and work contexts. Typical outcomes include:

• Direct progression to Curtin undergraduate degrees, reducing the need for further foundation programs.
• Improved employability in roles that require clear written and oral communication, such as administrative and support roles, customer-facing positions and entry-level roles in business and community organisations.
• Better preparation for further study (honours, postgraduate coursework) and research roles that demand strong academic literacy and communication skills.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin offers English language instruction through experienced teachers in a university context, with close links to degree faculties to ensure the programme prepares students for the expectations of Curtin study. Small class sizes, personalised feedback and a focus on authentic academic tasks help students make rapid, measurable progress.

Students benefit from Curtin’s academic support services, access to library and digital resources, and clear progression pathways into a wide range of undergraduate programs. The university’s multicultural campus environment and student support infrastructure help international students settle and succeed both academically and socially.