Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management

Postgraduate | 2026

Degree hero banner
Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load.
0.5 year(s) full-time
Program code icon
Program code
GCHSM
Study as icon
Study as
Full time or part time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Commonwealth Supported students are charged a portion of the cost of their higher education through a student contribution. Fee-Paying programs require the full tuition fees of your study, which can be deferred partly or in full to a FEE-HELP loan. Where the duration of the program is less than one year, the total cost of the program is displayed.
SATAC code icon
SATAC code
SATAC code
Please enter this SATAC code when applying for this degree via the SATAC website
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
N/A
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
N/A
  1. Brochure download icon
  2. Enquire enquire icon
  3. Apply arrow-right-white icon

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) degree or higher from a recognised higher education institution in one of the approved Fields of Education; OR

A minimum of five years relevant work experience.

Approved Fields of Education

Health

Human Welfare Studies and Services

Behavioural Science

Biomedical Engineering

Public and Health Care Management

Biochemistry and Cell Biology

Genetics

Microbiology

Human Biology

alt
Note:

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management?

Develop your leadership and management skills and be the face behind our healthcare systems. 

With our Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management, you’ll be ready to enhance your career – or even start a new one. You’ll tackle the unique challenges of managing health services. Optimise operations, improve patient care and lead diverse teams. Manage budgets and ensure efficient healthcare operations. 

Be equipped with the tools to succeed and make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Your skills will allow you to seamlessly move into healthcare administration and will position you well for management roles.  

program overview

Overview

Are you ready to pursue managerial and leadership roles in the health sector?  

Your studies will cover leadership, business, social responsibility and more. You’ll study a blend of health and business courses and be guided by curriculum informed by the Australasian College of Health Services Management.  

Throughout the program, you’ll build your expertise to pursue management opportunities in the health and ageing sector. You’ll explore core courses in leadership and financial management and have the chance to choose from a range of electives according to your interests.  

Benefit from flexible, blended learning options and supportive staff and discover a contemporary degree designed to prepare you for various career opportunities. 

What you'll learn

Our Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management will deepen your knowledge and prepare you for success across the healthcare sector. Over six months (or part-time equivalent), you’ll complete three core courses and one elective aligned to your area of interest. 

You’ll complete the following three core courses: 

  • People, Leadership and Performance 
  • Responsible Leadership in Health 
  • Financial and Economic Management for Health and Aged Care. 

Discover theoretical and practical knowledge of organisational behaviour. You’ll go deep into the psychology of individuals and groups, focusing on motivation and leadership. Learn how to plan budgets and identify cost efficiencies. Address social leadership challenges responsibly.  

Tailor your studies and choose from a range of electives. You can learn how to design and evaluate complex health interventions or enhance your analytical skills. 

You’ll be prepared for leadership roles in health within Australia and internationally.

This graduate certificate is designed as a nested program, with credit transfers and articulation pathways to the Graduate Diploma in Health Services Management and the Master of Health Services Management. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 24 units comprising:

  • 18 units for Core courses, and
  • 6 units for Electives

Complete 18 units comprising:

  • 18 units for all Program core

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
People, Leadership and Performance
Course code
BUSI5072
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Financial and Economic Management for Health and Aged Care
Course code
HLTH5002
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Responsible Leadership in Health
Course code
HLTH5005
Units
6

Notes

  • 1. The Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management is designed as a nested program, with credit transfers and articulation pathways to the Graduate Diploma in Health Services Management and the Master of Health Services Management.

  • Program core - Please note that some core courses may be offered in either semester 1 or semester 2

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
People, Leadership and Performance
Course code
BUSI5072
Units
6
Course name
Financial and Economic Management for Health and Aged Care
Course code
HLTH5002
Units
6
Course name
Responsible Leadership in Health
Course code
HLTH5005
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Complete 6 units comprising:

  • 6 units from Program electives

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Health and Aged Care Systems and Operations
Course code
HLTH5008
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Health Informatics
Course code
INFO4006
Units
6

Notes

  • 1. The Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management is designed as a nested program, with credit transfers and articulation pathways to the Graduate Diploma in Health Services Management and the Master of Health Services Management.

  • Program electives - Please note that some electives may be offered in either semester 1 or semester 2

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
People, Leadership and Performance
Course code
BUSI5072
Units
6
Course name
Financial and Economic Management for Health and Aged Care
Course code
HLTH5002
Units
6
Course name
Responsible Leadership in Health
Course code
HLTH5005
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Ready to apply?

search

Find your program

Discover the programs and explore the opportunities.

Checklist

Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Future student

Consider your preferences

To prepare for your future and to maximise your success consider adding additional preferences.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications are open for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. 

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more. 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more. 

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces. 

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
Graduates

Explore Adelaide University

Accommodation options

Considering calling Adelaide home? Explore accommodation options to find a place that's right for you.

Rundle Mall shopping

Life in Adelaide

Discover why Adelaide is one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Ebenezer Place shopping and cafes, bikes, bicycles

Scholarships

Our scholarships can provide the helping hand you need to transition into university life.

Taken during Orientation Week