On-Campus

A standalone course focuses on a single qualification (e.g., Diploma of Hospitality) with the full course duration and a single certificate issued upon completion. A packaged course combines multiple qualifications (e.g., Certificate III, IV, and Diploma) into one streamlined pathway, reducing overall study time by using credit transfers as compared to combined standalone durations. Each qualification is awarded an individual certificate.

Packaged courses use credit transfers to avoid repeating similar units across the qualifications. This reduces the overall duration without compromising the quality of training. For example, a Certificate III, IV, and Diploma packaged program may take 96 weeks instead of the combined standalone durations.

Yes, in a packaged course, you will receive a certificate for each qualification level (e.g., Certificate III, Certificate IV, and Diploma).

Yes, the qualification level (e.g., Diploma) remains the same. The difference lies in the number of certificates issued and the time it takes to complete. A standalone Diploma results in one certificate, while a packaged course awards multiple certificates for each completed level.

It depends on your goals:

• Choose a packaged course if you aim to gain progressive qualifications to work while you study. For example, Certificate III - Cook and Certificate IV - Chef.
• Choose a standalone course if you only need a specific qualification (e.g., Diploma of Hospitality) and prefer the flexibility of focusing on one level.

Yes, both standalone and packaged courses allow you to gain practical experience and meet any work placement requirements. Always check your visa conditions if you are an international student.

Yes, the fees vary depending on the course type. Packaged courses may have bundled pricing for the entire program, while standalone courses are priced individually.

Switching between course types is subject to approval and may depend on your progress, the duration remaining, and the availability of credit transfers.

No, a packaged course allows you to progress sequentially through each qualification (e.g., starting with Certificate III, then moving to Certificate IV, and finally completing the Diploma).

Yes, both course types provide industry-recognized qualifications and prepare you for roles such as chef, restaurant manager, or other related positions. However, packaged courses may offer additional flexibility to progress through multiple qualification levels.

If you complete only part of the packaged course, you will still receive certificates for the qualifications you successfully finish (e.g., Certificate III or IV).

The assessments are aligned with each qualification's requirements. Packaged courses may have overlapping units, which could reduce the total number of assessments.

Credit transfers apply to overlapping units between Certificate III, IV, and Diploma qualifications. This allows you to skip certain units in higher levels that you’ve already completed in a lower qualification.

If you later decide to pursue a higher qualification, the units you completed in a standalone course may be credited, subject to approval.

The main difference is time and flexibility. A standalone course focuses solely on one qualification, which takes longer than a packaged course if you plan to complete multiple levels. However, standalone courses offer the flexibility to focus on a specific qualification.

• Your career goals and timeline.
• Whether you need progressive qualifications.
• The total duration and fees.
• Your personal preference for flexibility or streamlined progression.

Entry requirements depend on the level of the course (e.g., Certificate III vs. Diploma). However, these requirements are the same whether the course is standalone or part of a package.

No, packaged courses are designed for students to progress from foundational to advanced qualifications. For example, you don’t need a prior Certificate III to enrol in a Certificate III, IV, and Diploma packaged program.

Yes, packaged courses are available for international students and offer the advantage of completing multiple qualifications under one enrolment.

You can visit the Swanston Institute website or contact our admissions team to learn more about course options, durations, and fees.