Postgraduate Qualifying Programs (PQPA and PQP)

Postgraduate Qualifying Program (PQPA) – For International Students

The Postgraduate Qualifying Program (PQPA) is specifically designed for international students who want to pursue postgraduate study in Information Technology and Innovation but need additional support to meet the Central Institute’s English language or academic entry requirements.

Through this program, you will gain essential skills in IT, including areas such as cybersecurity, data analytics, software development, and emerging technologies, so you can confidently progress into advanced study.

Once you successfully complete the program, you will be eligible to enter the Master of Information Technology and Innovation.

Program Duration

The PQPA is a full-time program that takes two semesters to complete. You will study three units per semester.

What Will You Study?

Semester 1 – Foundational IT Skills

  • ITTF101 Foundations of IT
  • ITSD101 Introduction to Computer Programming
  • ITNW101 Introduction to Computer Communications and Networks

Semester 2 – Advanced IT and Professional Skills

  • ITPR102 Information Systems Foundations
  • ITPR202 Software Project Management
  • ITPR302 Organisational Change and Implementation

Exit Requirements

To successfully complete the program, you must achieve a satisfactory grade in all six units.

Course Fees

  • AUD $18,000 for 2026 (fees are subject to annual review).

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

  • Completion of a 3-year post-secondary qualification (or Year 12 equivalent).

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 with no individual band below 5.5
  • ELICOS: Advanced level (65% overall, with all skills 60% or above)
  • Cambridge Advanced (CAE): Equivalent to IELTS

Postgraduate Qualifying Program (PQP) – For Domestic Students

The Master of Information Technology and Innovation Postgraduate Qualifying Program (PQP) is designed for domestic students who may not have a background in Information Technology but are eager to pursue postgraduate study.

This program introduces you to the basics of IT and helps you build the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in postgraduate studies, including key areas such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and software development.

After completing the PQP, you will be ready to advance into the Master of Information Technology and Innovation.

Program Duration

The PQP is a one-semester, full-time program, where you will complete three on-campus units.

What Will You Study?

You will take three core units that will lay the groundwork for your postgraduate IT studies:

  • CODE 004 IT Unit 1
  • CODE 005 IT Unit 2
  • CODE 006 IT Unit 3

Exit Requirements

To complete the program, you must achieve a satisfactory grade in all three units.

Course Fees

  • AUD $9,000 for 2026 (fees are subject to annual review).

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

  • An associate degree, or higher, in IT or a related field; OR
  • At least three years of full-time managerial/professional work experience in the IT sector; OR
  • Other qualifications that demonstrate your potential to succeed in IT graduate studies.
Skip to content