Arts - 2618

Arts

Diploma

The Diploma of Arts is your direct pathway to an Arts degree at Monash. If you're inspired by new ideas, social and political issues, language and the way literature, history and communication shapes our world, then our Diploma of Arts enables you with an education journey with maximum flexibility, choice – and possibilities to transform our world.

Program Ownership: Monash College Diplomas are awarded and delivered by Monash College (CRICOS Course Code: 061625F).

At a glance

ATAR - Part 1

50

Note Lowest Selection Rank to which an offer was made in 2026
ATAR - Part 2: Sociology stream/Media communication stream

60

Note Lowest Selection Rank to which an offer was made in 2026
ATAR - Part 2: Psychology stream

65

Note Lowest Selection Rank to which an offer was made in 2026

Course Details

Location
  • On-campus at Docklands: Full time & part time
  • On-campus at Jakarta International College, Indonesia: Full time
Duration
PART 1: 9 months
PART 2: 9 months
Start date
First Trimester (February), Second Trimester (June), Third Trimester (October)
Qualification
Diploma of Arts

Why choose this Arts diploma pathway to degree?

The Diploma of Arts is a pathway to an Arts degree at Monash University, designed for students interested in exploring ideas, society, politics, language, history, literature and communication. You’ll develop critical thinking, research and communication skills while building knowledge in the Arts and Social Sciences. In Part 2, you’ll study units equivalent to the first year of a Monash University undergraduate degree, preparing you to progress into your chosen destination degree.

What streams can you study?

In Part 2, you’ll choose a stream based on your interests and intended Monash University destination degree:

  • Psychology: for students interested in completing a major in Psychology or Criminology.
  • Sociology: for students interested in areas such as Arts, Global Studies or Politics, Philosophy and Economics.
  • Media Communication: for students interested in Media Communication or Digital Media and Communication.
  • Arts – Education Studies: available to students in the Psychology or Sociology streams who are interested in a future in primary or secondary education. This includes two Education Studies units and 10 days of professional work placement.

What jobs can you get after graduation?

Completing the Diploma of Arts and progressing to your chosen Monash University degree can prepare you for careers across a broad range of industries. Depending on your degree, major and specialisation, career opportunities may include:

  • Media and Communications Professional
  • Policy or Research Officer
  • Digital Media Professional
  • Community or Social Services Professional
  • Criminology-related roles
  • Education-related roles

Course Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do I need to get into the Diploma of Arts?To apply for the Diploma of Arts, you must be at least 16 years old and meet the required academic and English language entry requirements. English is a prerequisite for the course. Check the academic entry requirements and English language requirements for more information.

What will I study in the Diploma of Arts?The diploma is delivered in two parts. In Part 1, you’ll study six core units and two elective focused on Arts and Social Sciences, building the foundational knowledge you’ll need for Part 2. In Part 2, you’ll choose Psychology, Sociology or Media Communication and complete eight units equivalent to the first year of a Monash University undergraduate degree, including six core units and two electives.

How will I be assessed in the Diploma of Arts?You’ll be assessed through a combination of essays, group projects, presentations, research papers and final exams. These assessments will help you develop your research, critical thinking, communication and collaborative skills in preparation for university study.

What can I do after completing the Diploma of Arts?International students who successfully complete Part 2 can enter directly into the second year of their chosen Monash University destination degree, subject to meeting the relevant progression requirements. Your chosen stream and destination degree will determine the areas you can continue studying at Monash University.

How much does the Diploma of Arts cost?For the latest tuition fee information, visit the Monash College dates and fees page.

Entry Requirements

You need to satisfy the following entrance requirements to be considered for entry to this course.

Minimum Entry Requirements (Domestic students)

Qualifications

Academic entry requirements

To be accepted into a Diploma of Arts, you must meet the academic and English language requirements.You will also need to check the age, subject and course prerequisites before you apply.

Check the Prerequisite subjects under Academic entry requirements

Minimum age requirements

To enrol in this course, you must meet the following minimum age requirements:

  • Part 1:  At least 16 years of age at the time of enrolment
  • Part 2: At least 16 years and 6 months of age at the time of enrolment

If you do not meet the minimum age requirement, you may be offered a deferred place until you become eligible.

Have a different qualification? 

Entry requirements for international and other qualifications can be found on our Academic Entry Requirements page. If your qualification is not listed, we will assess your application individually when you apply.

Destination degree entry requirements

Upon successful completion of Part 2 of a Monash University Diploma with the required academic score and any applicable prerequisites, you’ll have a guaranteed entry into the second year of a related Monash University undergraduate degree. Please refer to Destination Degrees for full details and additional conditions that may apply.

English requirements

The English language requirements for this course can be met through one of the following qualifications or pathways for International students.

The English language requirements for this course can be met through one of the following qualifications for Domestic students.

Additional information

  • If your English test scores do not meet the minimum requirements, you may wish to consider enrolling in a Monash English course to help you meet the entry standard.
  • English test results must be completed within three years prior to your Monash course start date (other conditions may apply).
  • If you have completed multiple English measures, the highest valid measure will be considered.
  • Monash University reserves the right to request an additional English test to confirm you meet the English entry requirements.
  • International students must also meet the English language requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, which may differ from Monash University requirements.

Alternative English language entry pathways and accepted test scores can be found on our English language test score requirements page.

Prerequisite subject requirements

To gain entry into this course, you must meet the following prerequisite subject requirements:
Prerequisite subjects under Academic entry requirements

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements for admission to Monash University Australia.

Part 1

Part 1 is completed over two trimesters across nine months. During Part 1, you’ll study six core units and two elective units focused on Arts and Social Sciences, designed to build your foundational knowledge and prepare you for Part 2 in your chosen Diploma of Arts stream.

Please note: Units offered in the First and Second Trimesters run on a rotational basis and are not available every trimester. Depending on your intake, you may complete Second Trimester units first, followed by First Trimester units in your next study period.

Part 2

Choose your stream: Psychology, Sociology or Media Communication

Part 2 is completed over two trimesters across nine months. You’ll study eight units equivalent to the first year of a Monash University undergraduate degree, allowing you to build knowledge in your chosen stream. Your study plan in Part 2 includes:

  • Six core units aligned with your chosen discipline
  • Two elective units tailored to your interests and your intended destination degree
Unit GuideDownload Diploma of Arts Unit Guide
Course MapDownload Diploma of Arts Course Map

Making the application

Future students

Trimester one (February)

Applications for on campus studies should be made online through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre

Apply through VTAC

Trimester two (June) and Trimester three (October)

Applications are submitted directly to Monash College

Apply

Self assess for credit eligibility

Check for study credit using the "Credit search" link on the Credit for prior study page.

Fees

Fees are subject to change annually.

Information on Monash College Diploma fees is available at the College website.

Other costs and fees

For information on other study costs and fees, see other study costs.