Diploma of Dementia Care [M1D]

Dementia is a neurological condition that affects tens of millions of people across the globe, posing significant challenges to people living with dementia, their families, communities and the health care sector. The Diploma of Dementia Care provides students with a deep knowledge of dementia, the changes that occur in the brain, the behaviours and needs associated with changes, and practical strategies necessary to help care for people living with dementia.

A condition as serious as dementia requires a special type of care – and a special type of person to provide it. Our course will develop your specialised understanding of dementia so that you can make a positive difference to the lives of people living with dementia. Learn from our global experts, with all our education programs informed by the latest research evidence.

Students will gain advanced problem-solving skills, along with an understanding of the importance of evidence-based practice. Upon completion of the Diploma you will be prepared for a range of career paths in the aged care and health sectors.

Key information:

• You will learn how to effectively study online as well as academic skills such as referencing and basic biological terminology
• There are no exams, assessments may include discussion boards, quizzes, essays and presentations
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options are available
• Each unit will require 8-10 hours each week of study
• A full-time study load is 3-4 units; part-time study is 1-2 units per semester
• Students who are new to online learning, are returning to study or are currently in the workforce are advised to consider part-time enrolment in their first semester
• We have dedicated Student Advisors to guide your learning

All international students will need to meet the minimum English Language Requirements, University General Entry Requirements and any course specific requirements such as pre-requisite subjects, if applicable.

English Language Requirements

This degree requires an IELTS (Academic) of 6.5, with no individual band less than 6.5, or a PTE Academic score of 58, with no score lower than 58 or equivalent.

For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship, evidence of an approved English language test completed within the last 2 years must be provided. See the English Language Requirements page for more information.

General Entry Requirements

This is an open access course.

Course Specific Requirements

Students must have access to a computer, reliable internet connection, webcam, headset and microphone.

• All methods of meeting University of Tasmania English language requirements have a validity period of 2 years unless involving a country specific qualification as listed below.
• Each course offered by the University of Tasmania has a minimum English language requirement for entry as listed below. Applicants must also meet the academic entry requirements for each course.
• Applicants who qualify from a University of Tasmania program, and intend to gain professional registration to become a practitioner in Australia, may need to meet the relevant Professional Accrediting Agency's English language registration standard.
• In exceptional circumstances or cases not covered by the categories outlined below, multiple forms of evidence may be considered on a case by case basis by the Executive Director, Student Operations in consultation with the Director, Academic Quality and Standards.
• The University reserves the right to require that any applicant be required to undergo a test of English language.

Over 400,000 Australians are currently living with dementia; this number increases every year. The impact on communities, families, governments and health professionals will be significant as these numbers increase. Our workforce is currently ill equipped to help care for such large numbers of people living with dementia – by 2050, it is estimated that there will be over 900,000 people in Australia living with dementia.

Individuals with backgrounds in healthcare, community service, and allied health, may find study in this course advantageous. The Diploma of Dementia Care is particularly relevant to aged care workers and health professionals wishing to develop their knowledge of dementia, to increase their confidence when working with people living with dementia and to enhance their practice. Hear from our current students and graduates.

International students should refer to the International Students course fees page to get an indicative course cost.

STEP 1: Choose and research your course

STEP 2: Prepare your documents

STEP 3: Lodge your application

STEP 4: Accept your offer