RMIT University
Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months part-time*
Build necessary skills in risk identification and management to build a safer workplace and community.
Course overview
The Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to identify, prevent and manage a variety of health risks, hazards and exposures.
You will gain a thorough understanding of best practices for implementing and evaluating risk management interventions across a wide range of workplace and community settings.
Given the rapid growth in this field, the skills and knowledge acquired through this certificate can lead to numerous career opportunities, including roles in occupational hygiene, compliance, construction safety, human factors and ergonomics.
Why study the Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety at RMIT?
- Gain a competitive edge
Connect with industry throughout your studies, opening up employment opportunities and developing industry contacts. - Industry-relevant education
Learn from academics with extensive industry experience and well-developed contact networks. - Graduate job-ready
Develop the skills to identify and prevent diverse occupational and environmental health risks and related health problems.
Key facts
What you will study
Students must complete the following four courses:
- Principles and Practice of Work Health and Safety
- Work Health and Safety Science
- Work Health and Safety Legal Systems
- Human Factors and Occupational Ergonomics
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
You must have one of the following:
- Successfully completed an Australian bachelor's degree (or equivalent overseas qualification).
- A minimum of eight years of professional work experience in a related industry. Applicants with professional experience at a senior level that is less than eight years may also be considered.
To have your professional experience considered, you must submit with your application a CV and a personal statement detailing your experience.
English language requirements
You must meet the university's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.
Credit and exemptions will be assessed in a manner consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.
Find out if you might be eligible by contacting the university.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you will have a specialised skillset and knowledge of complex occupational health and safety theory and practice, allowing you to not only analyse and address issues and developments within the discipline, but also challenge and extend accepted knowledge. You will be able to apply this knowledge to your professional practice, designing creative and innovative decisions and solutions that meet client and organisational needs.
Throughout your studies, you will also develop core skills in communication and strategy design and implementation, enabling you to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders and industries.
Career outcomes
Graduates may work in fields such as ergonomics, safety or occupational hygiene within a range of industries including construction, healthcare, science and office settings.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative total fee in 2026: $17,280 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Additional expenses:
- Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): $373 maximum fee for 2026.
- Other items related to your program include field trips, textbooks and equipment.
The amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load. Fees are adjusted on an annual basis. These fees should only be used as a guide.
A student’s fee may vary depending on:
- The number of courses studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of courses.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university program.