Diploma in Building Design and Construction

This Diploma opens doors to diverse career paths, including entry-level roles in the construction industry. It also provides a direct pathway to the second year of a range of Bachelor programs at Western, without losing any time.

Diploma in Building Design and Construction

Duration

Full Time: 1 Year

Next Start Date

02 March 2026

20 July 2026

Closing Date

Campuses^
Penrith UAC 729242
Indicative Annual Fee
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Indicative annual fee from $11,885

Additional Information

Program Code: 7192

Diploma in Building Design and Construction

Modular learning
Our modular learning will help you reach your potential, no matter your starting point or ATAR. You’ll study one course-specific subject a time without slowing down.

Introduction
The Diploma in Building Design and Construction will provide you with foundational skills and knowledge in building design and construction, opening doors to further study and diverse career paths, including entry-level roles in the construction industry and a direct pathway to the second year of a range of Bachelor programs at Western, without losing any time.

Through the program, you will understand the tasks performed by various roles in the building industry and investigate a wide scope of construction materials, processes, and technologies. Delivered through practical learning, focusing on one course-specific subject at a time - you will develop your ability to communicate effectively with construction stakeholders while working in a way that is ethical and socially responsible.

The Diploma offers various avenues by which you can personalise learning to enhance your future employability or go on to specialise in construction technology, building design or construction management through our Bachelor pathways.

What pathways to further study does this Diploma provide?
Upon successful completion of this Diploma course, you can transition to the second year of one of the following Bachelor programs:

What are the entry requirements for this course? 
To be admitted to this course, you don’t need an ATAR. This program is open to Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents who are aged 17 years or over.

Register your interest now.

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How it works

Our Modular Learning Model offers an immersive study experience with workshop-style classes focused on one course-specific subject at a time, in 4-week blocks. Classes are held on campus - the average timetable includes 3 hours of classes, 3 days a week, meaning you can fit study around your other commitments.

Additional preparatory subjects run across 17 weeks, predominantly online, with one in-person class every 4 weeks. These subjects help you develop confidence in your studies, and transition into further study or the workforce.

You will complete 10 subjects in total for this Diploma. This requires a total of 110 credit points to be completed over the course of one year of full-time study. The course design of the Diploma represents an annual full-time study load that is slightly higher than the standard study load as calculated by the University, which is 80 credit points or 8 subjects, equating to an equivalent full-time study load (EFTSL) of 1. With 110 credit points (achieved through study of 10 subjects) taken over the course of one year, the Diploma represents 1.375 EFTSL with each course-specific subject representing 0.125 EFTSL and each preparatory subject representing 0.1875 EFTSL.

What you can expect to study

This subject introduces students to university culture and life, and explores a range of skills, attributes and behaviours that will gear students for success in their first year of tertiary study. A range of topics will be covered to facilitate increased confidence in students as they embark upon their university journey, as well as enhance students’ capacities to engage critically and actively in their chosen field of study. This subject will equip students with a range of academic study skills, research techniques and multi-literacies, and support students to develop their own individualised learning model, personal learning objectives and academic capacities. Academic integrity is further positioned as a critical component of university life and this subject will prepare students to engage effectively in their future professional fields and as active citizens.

This subject deals with the local, national, and global sustainability issues concerning human interactions with the natural and built environment. With a focus on UN Sustainable Development Goals, this subject uses case studies in innovation and scientific methodology to provide the practical and theoretical knowledge needed for students to think critically about ethical responsibilities contributing to the sustainable management of natural and built environments. Students will also learn how science and society interact in the management of resources. Using the concept of ecologically sustainable development as a foundation, students will research contemporary industrial problems relating to resource extraction, manufacturing and recycling. Students will communicate their research and make recommendations for improving sustainability.

This subject delves into the roles and challenges confronting professionals in construction site management and administration. Through the lens of real-world case studies and project scenarios, students gain an introductory understanding of the diverse responsibilities involved in construction management and site administration. The subject features a specialised task focused on research and problem-solving, targeting sustainability challenges in the construction industry. Alongside developing fundamental research and communication skills, the subject places a strong emphasis on academic and business literacy. Skills in project management and teamwork are also cultivated, preparing students for future academic pursuits and professional engagements in construction site administration and beyond.

This subject provides students with an overview of domestic construction regulations and techniques with an emphasis on low-rise residential buildings in the Australian context. It covers general processes, building regulations, environmental issues, surveying techniques, structural elements (footings, framing and bracing), envelopes, services, fit-outs, and finishes

This subject provides students with an introduction to the design, classification, applicable Australian Standards, structural systems, construction techniques, materials handling systems, building services, fit-out and finishes for larger scale buildings. The subject focusses on commercial construction projects such as shopping centres, factories, warehouses, office buildings and associated facilities.

This subject describes the context of safety management within the Australian construction industry. Covering a range of topics, the subject addresses the sector's historically subpar performance in Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) while exploring avenues for improvement. The subject extends beyond basic hazard identification and risk management to encompass an in-depth look at workplace safety responsibilities, causes of accidents, WHS legal frameworks, and individual accountability. It also covers the specific hazards and controls related to WHS, techniques for thorough accident investigation, and the economic and ethical considerations affecting construction safety. Finally, the subject outlines effective principles and strategies for promoting a culture of safety within the industry

This subject is designed to complement the first six months of study in a College Diploma program by developing the skills required to be successful at University and beyond. The subject is delivered online with students accessing learning modules and connecting with their learner community in their own time and at their own pace to allow maximum flexibility. At the beginning of the subject students use diagnostic tools to identify their specific strengths and areas for improvement, and develop an individualised learning journey through the content. This learning journey will help to address individual study skill needs, while also developing employability skills, facilitating connection with peers and with the University community, as well as the student’s future career.

This subject is designed to assist students to take the next step in their academic development by helping them build higher level reflective skills that will allow them to critically consider their own learning and professional journey and make the adjustments required to achieve their goals. Students will begin to take ownership of their learning by developing proactive strategies that will allow them to study on their own terms. Students will begin engaging with their intended profession and reflect on the skills, attributes and qualifications that will be required to reach their goals. Students will also develop a transition plan to help them navigate the next steps in their academic journey so that they can identify the challenges they might encounter as they move forward, and develop the skills to overcome them.

You can see the course credit points for each subject outlined in our handbook.

Career Opportunities

This program opens doors to diverse career paths, including entry-level roles in the construction industry.

Looking for jobs that are in demand?

Check out these helpful tools that you can use to find out more:

Jobs and Skills Atlas

Jobs and Skills Atlas

You can use this tool to research different jobs and industries, including 5-years trends of how many people are employed and the demand in different regions and LGAs.

Provided by Jobs and Skills Australia, part of the Australian Government.

Skills Priority List

Skills Priority List

You can use this tool to research the likely future need for different jobs and skills, as well as filter by your State or Territory.

Provided by Jobs and Skills Australia, part of the Australian Government.

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Alumni

"Being a student isn’t just about learning, I’ve made some really close friends. And when I’m on campus I feel a part of the community."

— Layal, Diploma in Culture, Society and Justice

B Psychological and Social Sciences

Entry requirements for domestic students

Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.

You can read more about special requirements here.

B Psychological and Social Sciences

Entry requirements for international students

**Please note, if this course lists a part-time option, this is not available to International Students on a Student Visa.

Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.

You can read more about international academic entry requirements here.

Indicative annual fee

UG Direct

The indicative annual fee is based on full-time study over one year requiring the completion of 10 subjects (110 credit points). This study load is slightly higher than the standard study load as calculated by the University, which is 80 credit points or 8 subjects, equating to an equivalent full-time study load (EFTSL) of 1. With 110 credit points (achieved through study of 10 subjects) taken over the course of one year, the Diploma represents 1.375 EFTSL with each course-specific subject representing 0.125 EFTSL and each preparatory subject representing 0.1875 EFTSL. The indicative annual fee has been calculated on the basis of 1.375 EFTSL and is partially subsidised by the Commonwealth – this is known as Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP). The above fee is what the student owes, known as the Student Contribution.

The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.

As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.

Your student contribution amount will be calculated based on the general discipline area of the subjects you study (this may be different to the discipline area of your course). To work out your fees in advance, visit the Student contribution calculations page.

FEE-HELP

Students that are eligible for HELP (Higher Education Loan Program) loan can use this to avoid paying upfront and instead pay your Student Contribution over time.

HECS-HELP is a Government loan system designed to help eligible domestic students afford higher education. You will only be required to start repaying the loan once your annual income exceeds the compulsory threshold for the relevant income year.

In order to receive HECS-HELP you must be enrolled in a commonwealth supported place (CSP) and be:

  • an Australian citizen studying at least some of your course in Australia; or
  • a New Zealand Special Category Visa (SCV) holder, or eligible former New Zealand SCV holder; who meets the long-term residency requirements and who studies the entire course while living in Australia; or
  • a permanent humanitarian visa holder, or an eligible former permanent humanitarian visa holder; who will be resident in Australia for the duration of your unit(s); or
  • a pacific engagement visa (PEV) holder who will be resident in Australia for the duration of your unit(s) (a PEV holder becomes eligible from 1 February 2024)

Find out more about HECS-HELP

Find out more about OS-HELP

Apply as a Domestic Student

If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.

Domestic students are:

  • Australian Citizens
  • New Zealand Citizens
  • Australian permanent residents
  • Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders

Scholarships

Western Sydney University recognises and rewards students who demonstrate community engagement, outstanding academic ability and superior leadership skills. Donor-funded scholarships are also available, providing support for students based on both academic achievements and equity considerations. There are also scholarships available for specific degrees. 

No application
B Education (Early Childhood)

FAQs

12 months (full time).

There are no exams in our Diplomas. Instead, our programs employ a variety of assessment types which may include portfolios, applied project work, fieldwork, and practical tasks. Assessments are authentic, maintain high standards and aim to be reflective of real-world tasks. In addition, teachers work closely with students in small, interactive workshop-style classes, and provide students with individual support. This approach ensures a robust evaluation of students’ skills and knowledge. Non-exam assessments develop essential skills, such as critical thinking and time management, preparing students for traditional exams in later years of their programs.

All of our Diplomas commence with the same subject, providing students with an introduction to University life and allowing them to further explore their chosen professional fields. Should you discover a different diploma better suits your personal goals, you can transfer at this stage with no time lost. Transfers to other diplomas are available at any time throughout the duration of your course, and you will receive credit for any common subjects you have already completed.

Diplomas are recognised in the workforce, and can be used to help you stand out from other job candidates. You can take a look at the potential career opportunities in the careers tab.

In this Diploma, there are two electives which students generally complete as the last two subjects in their course. With a wide range of elective options, you can explore a number of topics and align your studies with your specific interests and career goals.

You can view elective options for this course here.

*Please note, not all elective subject options are available at all campuses. 

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What's the difference between a Bachelor degree and a Diploma?

Ever wondered about the difference?

A Diploma offers specialised learning, focused on gaining job-ready skills or preparing you for further study in a particular field. It is:

  • Generally more accessible than a Bachelor with flexible entry requirements.
  • Faster to complete - on average 12 months of full time study.
  • Ideal for anyone who wants to upskill, earn credit towards a Bachelor degree, or start a career.

With a Western Diploma, you study for 12 months through our Modular Learning model at The College.

Upon completion, you graduate job-ready or can transition into the second year of a Bachelor at Western - gaining two qualifications in the time of one. This makes it the ideal choice for those who:

  • are looking to do their first year of uni differently, and/or
  • need more time to uncover their passion - most of our Diplomas provide pathways (and 12 months credit) into more than one Bachelor course, and/or
  • are aspiring for a career in a high-growth industry that doesn't require a Bachelor.
Kingswood campus

PATHWAY OPTIONS

Upon successful completion of this Diploma course, you can skip ahead to the second year of one of the following Bachelor programs:

Bachelor of Building Design Management (Honours)

Full Time: 4 Years (Available Part Time)*

Bachelor of Construction Technology

Full Time: 3 Years

Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)

Full Time: 4 Years (Available Part Time)*

The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.

As a multi-campus institution, The College reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.