Go to Courses and units

Diploma of Applied Technologies (Specialisation) (Z1Q)

Overview Career outcomes Course structure Entry requirements Fees & scholarships
Apply now

2027 Course information is now available. View 2027 course information

Overview (2026)

Key Information

Duration

Minimum 1 Year, up to a maximum of 3 years.

This course is available to study as both part-time or full-time
Duration
Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Online
Semester 1, Semester 2

Doesn't matter what you're doing, nearly every industry is becoming more technological. In order to continue to drive, there's certain people that are going to need these skillsets. The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) lab is just another fantastic example of the next step in that evolution.

Mark Shelton Coordinator, University Connections Program

Build future‑ready technology skills for today’s workforce

The Diploma of Applied Technologies is a fully online qualification that prepares you with practical, job‑ready technology skills that can be applied across a wide range of industries.

Technology is now embedded in almost every role, from digital systems and automation to cyber awareness and data‑driven processes. By 2030, nearly half of all industries are anticipated to be transformed by automation, requiring the current workforce to upskill as Industry 5.0 evolves. Employers are looking for people who understand how technology works, can adapt to change, and can confidently apply technical skills in real‑world settings.
This course is designed to help you:

  • Develop foundational technology skills that are relevant across industries
  • Gain hands‑on experience with digital systems, programming, networks and emerging technologies
  • Build the adaptability and confidence needed to work in technology‑enabled environments
  • Create pathways to career progression or further study in applied technologies, ICT, cyber security or advanced manufacturing

A key feature of this course is the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), which allows you to remotely access physical hardware including robots, sensors and control systems. Through live streaming and interactive lab activities, you will program real equipment, observe outputs in real time, and apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts. You can choose between hardware‑based labs or simulation‑based labs, giving you flexibility while still gaining authentic hands‑on experience.

You will complete a shared foundation before specialising in an area aligned to your career interests. Specialisation options include advanced maufacturing, cyber security, and ICT.

Advanced Manufacturing
The Advanced Manufacturing and Automation specialisation focuses on the technologies driving modern production and industrial systems. You will explore digital and electrical control systems, sensors, robotics, automation technologies and computer‑aided design used to improve efficiency, precision and product quality. This specialisation is ideal for those working in, or seeking to enter, manufacturing, automation, production or design‑focused roles where technology plays a central role.

Cybersecurity
The Cyber Security specialisation builds cyber awareness, risk management capability and protective practices that are increasingly essential across all organisations. You will develop an understanding of common cyber threats and vulnerabilities, how to support cyber resilience and compliance with privacy and security requirements, and how cyber security principles are applied in both technical and non‑technical workplaces. This specialisation is ideal if you want to work in cyber‑aware roles, support ICT or administrative functions, or create a pathway into further cyber security study.

ICT (Information and Communication Technology)
The ICT specialisation develops foundational skills in programming, computer networks and digital systems used across business and industry. You will gain practical experience with core programming concepts, system and network fundamentals, and applied ICT skills that support technology operations in a wide range of organisational settings. This specialisation suits those seeking entry‑level ICT roles, progression within technology support functions, or a strong foundation for further ICT study.

As an online student, you are still able to access all UTAS student resources including the library resources, counselling and wellbeing services, study support, and club/society membership.

  • 1 Identify and use technologies, tools, and techniques to manage and maintain data, systems and processes
  • 2 Apply problem-solving and design approaches to identify technological solutions or innovations
  • 3 Interpret, analyse and present technical information using professional communication skills
  • 4 Critically reflect on knowledge, skills, behaviours and attributes required to develop and enhance career opportunities

The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) provides you with an interactive platform to remotely access hardware resources, including robots, sensors, actuators, and other related equipment. Through the VLE, you’ll be able to program these hardware components and observe real-time outputs via live streaming supported by webcams. These lab activities offer a comprehensive learning experience by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. You can choose between hardware-based labs for hands-on engagement or simulation-based labs to experiment and explore within a virtual environment. This flexible approach caters to diverse learning styles and enhances your understanding of the subject matter.

With course content delivered by experts in the field within a highly supportive environment, you’ll benefit from their expertise and graduate with a solid understanding of your chosen field.

Business Placements

Designed to equip you with valuable industry connections, alongside job-ready skills and experience, the University of Tasmania’s Business Placement Program expands your career horizons while forming valuable relationships with organisations and industry leaders. Our placement team will organise your placement where you will work on a business related project throughout the semester in an area of your choosing, whether in government, non-profit, private or a specific business environment.

Career outcomes

This course opens the door to a wide variety of opportunities in the ever-growing technology industry. Nearly every job today involves some aspect of technology, so mastering this field will give you access to a range of exciting roles. If you’re already working in the industry, this diploma can help you advance your career or specialise in your area of interest. Some key sectors with high demand for the skills and knowledge you’ll gain from this course include:

  • Green and Renewable Technologies
  • Robotics and Intelligence System
  • Finance Industry
  • Cyber Security Consulting
  • Startups
  • Logistics and Supply Chains
  • Defence
  • Local, State and Federal Government and Departments
  • Health Care
  • Telecommunication and Sensor Networks

Importantly, the skills developed in this diploma are not limited to one industry, giving you flexibility to move between sectors as opportunities arise.

Course structure

To graduate from the Diploma of Applied Technologies (Specialisation) you must satisfactorily complete 100 credit points of study comprising:

  • 50 credit points of Core units; and
  • 50 credit points of specialisation units in one of the following specialisations:
    • Advanced Manufacturing
    • Cyber Security
    • ICT

Entry requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the UTAS admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option. 

Enquire online for advice on the application process and the available pathways to study at UTAS.

Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary education (in the past two years)

This course does not use ATAR as part of the admission process. To be an eligible for an offer, applicants must have completed the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) or an equivalent qualification.

Domestic applicants with higher education study

To be eligible for an offer, you must have:

  • Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). You must have completed at least one unit of study (equivalent to 12.5 UTAS credit points), at 100 level or higher and which may include 100 level units completed in the UTAS Diploma of University Studies. If you have failed any units, your application may be subject to further review before an offer is made; OR
  • Completed the UTAS University Preparation Program (or an equivalent qualification offered by an Australian University).

Domestic applicants with VET / TAFE study

To be eligible for an offer, you must have completed a Certificate III or higher (or equivalent) in any discipline.

Applications on the basis of work or life experience

Applicants without senior secondary, tertiary or VET / TAFE study can complete a personal competency statement.

Applicants may be eligible for an offer if they have relevant work and / or life experiences which demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.

You may be eligible for advanced standing (ie. credit) of up to 50 credit points if you have completed Z0Q Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Technologies or a similar course at this university or other approved tertiary institution.

Students who complete Z1Q Diploma of Applied Technologies (Specialisation) may articulate into B3A Bachelor of Business, P3T Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology, P3O Bachelor of Science or other cognate Bachelor degrees with up to 100 credit points of advanced standing.

Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

Fees & scholarships

Domestic students

Commonwealth supported places (CSP) are available for this course. For eligible domestic students, this means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.

Commonwealth Supported Place indicative annual fee: $9,417

How is this calculated?

This is an estimate. The calculation is based on the average full-time enrolment for this course in 2025. All figures are indicative only for 2026. Actual tuition fees will depend on specific unit enrolment, and are subject to annual increases each year. You can find the complete fee details for each unit of study on the individual unit pages. The units for this course are found in the course structure section of this page.

These figures do not include other costs such as the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). For further information, please visit Scholarships, fees and costs.

HECS-HELP loans

You may be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.

Further information on student loans and a CSP eligibility checker can be found at Australian Government Study Assist.

Domestic scholarships

For information on general scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please visit the scholarships website.

Course year 2026

View previous years course information

Useful links

Share this page

How can we help?

Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.

Domestic

13 8827 (13 UTAS)

International

+61 3 6226 6200

Email

Course.Info@utas.edu.au

Online

Online enquiries

Next steps

Enquire How to apply Scholarships