Torrens University Australia
Graduate Diploma of Economics of Sustainability
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
- Course Type: Graduate Diploma
This unique course offers a professional training in non-neoclassical economics and the ecological economics of sustainability, and is designed to meet the growing global demand for high-quality graduates in the field.

Course overview
A Graduate Diploma of Economics of Sustainability offers core knowledge of modern money theory and ecological economics. This course is co-delivered with the acclaimed research institute Modern Money Lab. Build advanced communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
You can enter this course from an undergraduate degree and graduation will provide job opportunities or a pathway to the Master's of Economics of Sustainability, and potentially to doctoral studies. This graduate diploma is ideal for those working or intending to work in business, government or not-for-profits, those seeking a background in the new economics and those considering a career as a professional economist.
Key facts
What you will study
To complete the Graduate Diploma of Economics of Sustainability (Partnership with Modern Money Lab), you must complete five core subjects and three electives.
Core subjects
- Foundations of Real-World Economics
- Foundations of Modern Money, Institutions and Markets
- Data Analysis for Economic and Ecological Issues
- Contending Perspectives in Economic Analysis
- Ecological Economics
Electives
Choose three of the following:
- Real-World Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics of the Real World
- International Finance and Modern Monetary Theory
- Sustainable Health Economics
- Inequality, Equity and Employment
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
Applicants must have one of the following:
- An Australian bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent in a business (or related) discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.
- Any Australian bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent AND at least two years of post-degree professional work experience.
- Applicants without formal qualifications are eligible to apply if they have five years of work experience, including three years of managerial experience.
English language requirements
International applicants must have an Academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent.
Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with Torrens University Australia. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
This graduate diploma is designed to equip you with knowledge and skills that will become increasingly important and in-demand in the years to come. You can find a career in a wide variety of institutions as an economist and in a variety of related roles, such as:
- Policy adviser
- Economist
- Sustainable finance lead
- Sustainability development adviser
Learning outcomes
To meet the learning outcomes of the Graduate Diploma of Economics of Sustainability, you are required to demonstrate:
- Oral and written communication skills applicable to present advanced concepts related to ecological economics and modern monetary theory, financial and monetary systems to businesses, policy makers and broader communities.
- Analytical and critical thinking skills in drawing economic insights based on varying schools of thoughts in economics and other disciplines.
- Problem solving, quantitative and qualitative reasoning skills in analysing economic and ecological issues.
- Listening, comprehension and cognitive skills in discussing economic reform proposals and evaluating consequences of economic policy changes.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative subject price in 2025: $3,465 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Estimated total price in 2025: $27,720 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Fees are calculated based on a full-time study load of eight subjects.
This course may contain subjects at double, triple or quadruple credit points. Subject prices are based on 10-credit-point blocks.
A student’s fee may vary depending on:
- The number of subjects studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of subjects.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
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.