Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This graduate diploma combines applied leadership theory with health-sector management practice. Core study areas typically include organisational leadership and ethics, health service operations and finance, quality and safety in healthcare, human resource and workforce planning, strategic planning and change management, evidence-informed decision making and health policy and governance.

• Leadership in healthcare – leadership styles, ethical frameworks, self-awareness and team leadership.
• Health service management – models of health service delivery, operations and resource allocation.
• Quality, safety and risk – clinical governance, improvement methodologies and regulatory compliance.
• Financial and project management – budgeting, financial reporting and managing projects in health settings.
• Human resources and workforce planning – recruitment, performance management and workforce sustainability.
• Strategy and change – developing and implementing strategic plans, leading organisational change.
• Research and evidence in practice – applying evidence to service improvement and evaluating outcomes.

The online format typically comprises a set number of postgraduate units delivered over consecutive study periods. Learning methods include lectures and readings delivered online, case studies drawn from health settings, interactive discussion, assessments that apply learning to workplace projects, and access to academic support and practitioner guest speakers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a bachelor degree (or recognised equivalent) in a relevant discipline, or a related postgraduate qualification. Applicants with substantial professional experience in health or health administration but without a degree may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Current registration or proven professional standing may be required for some clinical applicants.

All applicants whose prior studies were not in English will need to demonstrate English language proficiency to the university's standard. Applicants should check the university website or contact admissions for documentation requirements, recognition of prior learning and credit arrangements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for leadership and management roles across public and private health systems, non‑government organisations and community health services. Typical positions taken by alumni include:

• Clinical manager, ward or unit manager
• Health service manager or administrator
• Program coordinator or project manager
• Quality, safety and clinical governance officer
• Workforce and operations manager
• Policy advisor or service development lead

The course emphasises transferable management skills, enabling clinicians to move into non‑clinical leadership roles and supporting career progression into senior operational or executive positions when combined with further experience or further postgraduate study.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU is known for its focus on values-driven education with an emphasis on ethical leadership, social justice and service in health contexts. The online Graduate Diploma is built to be flexible for working professionals, offering subject delivery that balances academic rigour with practical application in contemporary health settings.

Students benefit from ACU's experienced academic staff who have clinical, managerial and research backgrounds, practical assessments designed for workplace implementation, and student support services including academic skills, careers advice and learning technology support. The university also maintains links with health services and professional networks that inform course content and provide opportunities for industry engagement.