Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This online graduate diploma builds knowledge across occupational health and safety, environmental management and regulatory compliance. Core topics typically include risk assessment and management, workplace safety systems and governance, occupational hygiene basics, incident investigation and reporting, human factors and safety culture, environmental management systems and pollution prevention, and auditing and compliance.

• Risk management and control: hazard identification, quantitative and qualitative risk assessment techniques, controls hierarchy and legal obligations.
• OHS systems and governance: safety management systems, policy development, leadership, and safety culture improvement.
• Incident investigation and emergency planning: root cause analysis, investigation methodologies and emergency preparedness.
• Environmental management: environmental impact assessment, pollution prevention, waste and resource management, and environmental legislation.
• Auditing and compliance: internal auditing techniques, compliance monitoring, reporting and corrective actions.
• Human factors and ergonomics: understanding human performance, workplace design considerations and fatigue management.
• Applied project or capstone: a practical project or workplace-based assessment that integrates OHS and environmental management learning.

Delivery is fully online with a mix of recorded lectures, interactive workshops, case studies and assessments that emphasise applied workplace skills and evidence-based practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants will typically need a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline or equivalent tertiary qualification. Candidates with substantial relevant workplace experience in occupational health, safety or environmental roles may also be considered; such applicants are usually required to provide a CV/resume and a statement of professional experience.

All applicants whose prior study was in a language other than English must meet ACU's English language requirements for postgraduate coursework. Specific admission conditions and any required documentation are confirmed at offer stage.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in workplace safety and environmental management across private, public and not‑for‑profit sectors. Typical job titles include:

• Occupational Health and Safety Advisor / Officer
• Safety or Risk Coordinator
• Environmental Compliance Officer / Environmental Advisor
• Workplace Wellness or Ergonomics Advisor
• Safety Auditor or Compliance Specialist
• OHS/EMS Consultant or Trainer

The programme also provides a pathway to senior roles such as Safety Manager or Environmental Manager with further experience, and can serve as preparation for higher study (for example a master’s degree) or for membership with professional bodies in the health, safety and environment sector.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers this graduate diploma online with a focus on practical, workplace-relevant skills delivered by staff with industry experience. The online format provides flexibility for working professionals, combined with interactive learning activities and applied assessments that mirror real-world OHS and environmental challenges.

Students benefit from ACU’s emphasis on ethical practice, professional development support and connections with industry partners that enhance employability. The course content is designed to align with contemporary regulatory and industry expectations, helping graduates step into OHS and environmental roles with confidence.