#1 Victorian university for business course satisfaction
#2 business school in Victoria for career impact
Top 3 business school in Victoria
Why choose leadership at Deakin
Start building your leadership capability with Deakin’s Graduate Certificate of Leadership. Designed for working professionals, this flexible course introduces core leadership concepts across communication, ethics, change and leading in complex environments.
Draw on your professional experience while learning from industry and academic experts, applying new ideas to real workplace challenges through projects and reflective practice. From the outset, you will develop practical leadership capability you can apply immediately in your role. This course also provides a clear pathway into the Master of Leadership, where you can deepen your expertise and advance your leadership practice. You will graduate with the confidence and foundational capability to lead teams, contribute to organisational outcomes and take the next step in your career.
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Top-ranked business school
Study at a top 3 business school in Victoria, recognised for strong career outcomes and industry relevance.
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Industry-shaped leadership skills
Your postgraduate course is designed with industry experts, building practical leadership capability for real workplaces.
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Pathway to further study
This graduate certificate provides a clear pathway into advanced postgraduate leadership and business qualifications.
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Career-focused outcomes
Build confidence in decision-making, communication and strategy to lead teams and drive organisational impact.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Build a confident leadership practice grounded in current theory and prepare for senior roles across business, government and industry, leading people and organisations through change and growth.
Manager
Coordinate and lead a team or department to achieve business goals. Plan work, allocate resources, support staff, monitor performance and make decisions that improve results and productivity.
- $130k
Typical Australian annual salary
- 7.7%
Projected job growth in 5 years
- 3.8/5
Job satisfaction
Director
Lead teams and shape strategy across business functions to achieve organisational goals. Make high-level decisions, influence stakeholders, develop people and drive performance, innovation and sustainable growth.
- $170k
Typical Australian annual salary
- 4.2/5
Job satisfaction
Other jobs
- Chief operating officer
- Chief financial officer
- Managing director
- Entrepreneur
- Board director
- Business owner
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 3 2026 applications close 18 October 2026
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
FAQs
A Deakin postgraduate degree can help you advance your career, deepen your expertise in a specialist field, pivot into a new industry and stand out in a competitive job market. Every course is built with industry input and taught by academics who are active practitioners, so the skills you gain are immediately applicable. Postgraduate study at Deakin is also your chance to connect with leaders in your field and build a network of industry contacts who become valuable professional connections, giving you an advantage that goes well beyond the qualification itself.
Most Deakin postgraduate courses are fee-paying, but there are practical ways to manage the cost of study. You can defer fees with a FEE-HELP loan, repaid through the ATO once you earn above the income threshold. A number of courses have Commonwealth Supported Places where the government covers part of your tuition. Deakin scholarships recognise academic achievement, professional experience and financial need. If you've studied at Deakin before, you may be eligible for a 10% alumni discount. Recognition of prior learning can also reduce costs by crediting past study so you finish sooner.
Yes to all three. Most Deakin postgraduate degrees can be studied online, on campus or a blend of both, and you may be able to switch between full and part time at the start of each trimester to suit your life. If you want to move faster, select courses offer a one-year masters degree designed for working professionals. With three start dates each year for most courses – March, July and November – you don't have to wait long to begin.
The main differences are depth, duration and career outcomes. A graduate certificate is a short, focused qualification, typically six months full time, ideal for upskilling quickly in a specific area. A graduate diploma offers broader knowledge or supports a career change, usually one-year full time. A masters degree delivers advanced expertise and professional recognition, typically one to two years full time. You can also stack qualifications – complete a graduate certificate and use the credit towards a masters.
Each Deakin postgraduate course has a unique structure, check the course stucture section of the course page to see compulsory units, electives and any specialisation streams available. All courses are shaped by industry, so content reflects real challenges in your field. Many courses let you tailor your studies through elective units or specialisations, and some include a capstone project where you apply your learning to a genuine workplace problem.
Entry requirements vary by course, so check this tab on the course page for specific criteria. Most Deakin postgraduate courses require a relevant bachelor degree, though some may accept significant demonstrable work experience as an alternative. You may also be able to build eligibility through a graduate certificate or graduate diploma, which in many cases could count towards a masters degree.
Deakin postgraduate courses are built with industry input, so you're learning skills employers are actively looking for. Depending on your course, you may access work-integrated learning through placements, internships or industry projects with partners including Microsoft, KPMG, National Australia Bank and the Geelong Cats Football Club. DeakinTALENT, Deakin's career service, supports you throughout your studies and for life, helping you grow your network and connect with opportunities in your field.
Yes. Recognition of prior learning (RPL) may turn your previous study or work experience into course credit, reducing both your study time and tuition costs. For some masters degrees, you may be able to receive credit for up to two-thirds of the course, if eligible. Use the RPL calculator to get an indication of what you might receive, and note that prior learning must generally be within the last 10 years, although some courses have a shorter time limit. You can apply for RPL as part of your course application.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
What will I study in the Graduate Certificate of Leadership?
Over the course of your study, you will develop contemporary leadership capability, progressing from personal leadership awareness to influencing outcomes in organisational contexts. You’ll build a strong foundation that prepares you for further study or expanded leadership responsibility.
Build leadership foundations
Develop personal leadership awareness
Build self-awareness and understand how your leadership style shapes team performance and workplace culture.
Support teams and deliver outcomes
Learn how to motivate others, contribute to performance and support the achievement of organisational goals.
Navigate change and complexity
Develop the capability to respond to uncertainty and contribute to sustainable outcomes.
Course structure
To complete the Graduate Certificate of Leadership you must pass 3 credit points.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
To be completed in the first trimester of study:-
Students must successfully complete the two Professional Practice credentials listed below.^*
CRADC-G1 Adaptive Mindsets (Advanced)
CRDSR-A1 Driving Strategic Results (Advanced)
Successful attainment of Professional Practice credentials is based on evidence provided from professional practice, hence recognition through authentic learning experiences. All professional practice credentials are linked to the Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes and will be assessed within the context of the leadership discipline. The credentials may be attempted separately or simultaneously and are assessed by an assessment panel that includes both academic and industry representatives. Please refer to the table below for the list of credentials.
*Applicants may be permitted to seek re-credentialling if they:
a) have not satisfied the advanced level requirement; or
b) have successfully achieved the credential but not within the required timeframe of five years.
^There are three levels and these are aligned with recognised "exit points" from the education sector, the AQF, work levels and industry frameworks. Level 5 is aligned to the AQF Masters Level.
Students must successfully complete two stackable short courses (0.5cp microcredentials) from the list below.
DMC710-AW Crisis Leadership
MMC705-AW Innovation and Leadership
MMC704-AW Innovation and Organisational Change
MMC715-AW Sustainable Leadership to 2030 (Masterclass not offered in 2027)
As a Graduate Certificate of Leadership student, when you are ready to enrol in your stackable short courses, please contact a Course Adviser or students@leadership.deakin.edu.au
Please refer to Deakin Current Students information for the handbook and important information on key dates, as well as Microcredential learner support.
What to expect while studying
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Students have the opportunity of fast-tracking the course in eight months by completing all units in two consecutive trimesters and all credentials within the first two trimesters of study.
Units which contain work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, working with children check or other check. These requirements will be detailed in unit guides upon enrolment.
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, online interactions, or professional experiences for Work Integrated Learning (WIL) units. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Units in this course may have participation requirements that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
This course does not require students to complete compulsory work integrated learning units.
To complete the Professional Practice Credentials, students will be required to draw on their current and past leadership experience.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
*Students have the opportunity of fast-tracking the course in eight months by completing all units in two consecutive trimesters and all credentials within the first two trimesters of study.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS – Please note that due to Australian Government regulations, student visas to enter Australia cannot be issued to students who enrol in Deakin online courses.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Possess an integrated understanding and superior ability to apply contemporary leadership theory and practices. |
| Use advanced communication tools, techniques and media to engage and inspire others. |
| Discover, analyse, synthesise and disseminate complex information, data and ideas to stakeholders, strategic partners and professional colleagues using a range of digital technologies and channel. |
| Systematically and critically analyse and test leadership styles, models and theories to optimise leadership impact within a specific cultural and operational context to drive strategy. |
| Apply problem-solving skills to analyse contemporary leadership related issues within organisations and provide solutions to these challenges. |
| Demonstrate an understanding of your own approach to leadership and the nature of your impact on others. |
| Work across a range of professions, functions, contexts or teams to optimise collaborative outcomes, to improve strategic outcomes. |
- Award granted
- Graduate Certificate of Leadership
- Year
2027 course information
- Deakin code
- M597
- Level
- Postgraduate (Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
The estimated tuition fees range for 2027 is not currently available.
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical full-time enrolment for this course and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course, unit enrolment and Credentials you choose. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.. You may also be eligible for a FEE-HELP loan to defer payment of all or part of your tuition fees.
Scholarships
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you'll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Applications for 2027 are open
Ready to take the next step? Apply now to start your journey at Deakin and get ready for what’s next.
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 3 2026 applications close 18 October 2026
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Your time is important, so we provide one-on-one support to make your application and enrolment process as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Give us a call
Chat to one of our enrolment advisers before you begin the application process. They'll provide advice on whether the course is suitable for you. If you decide to apply, they'll guide you through the process.
Call an enrolment adviser on 1300 043 524 or request a call back
We're available (AEST):
Monday-Thursday: 9am-6pm
Friday: 9am-5pm
Step 2: Gather your documents
Your enrolment adviser will tell you which documents you’ll need to complete your application. This usually includes transcripts and certificates verifying previous studies, as well as evidence of five years' managerial experience.
Step 3: Apply online
After speaking with your enrolment adviser and gathering your documents, you're ready to start your application.
Recognition of prior learning
We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for recognition of prior learning.
Pathways
Completion of a Graduate Certificate of Leadership is an alternative entry option for students wishing to attain a Master of Leadership but who have not completed a Bachelor Degree.