Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy

Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy

POSTGRADUATE

Upskill for leadership in the digital economy, for commerce, government and social enterprise.

Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 6 months
Part-time 1 year
Fees:

AU$17,280 (2025 total)

Next intake:
February
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 6 months
Fees:

AU$23,040 (2025 total)

Next intake:
February
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

The pace of adoption of digital interaction and business models has massively increased since early 2020.

The transition to the digital economy is now a worldwide economic imperative and people who can lead in the transition will have secure career opportunities. The Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy is designed to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills to lead at the frontier of the emerging new digital global economy.

Blockchain is a transformative technology at the centre of the new digital economy, with wide-ranging applications across all aspects of commerce, government and social enterprises. It is fundamentally reshaping the industrial, employment and social landscape that future graduates will live and work in. 

Why study the Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy at RMIT?

Industry links

Hear from expert guest lecturers, and participate in business competitions and hackathons.

Expert educators

Learn from professionals and academics who share their knowledge, research and experience.

Leading the pack

Our world-leading Blockchain Innovation Hub is helping to set the international agenda for enterprise transformation.

Global and Australian labour market reports show that there has been more than 200% year-on-year job growth in this field since 2015. Approximately half of that growth is for people with the knowledge and skills to identify, understand and communicate the value proposition and the economic, financial, accounting, legal, ethical, business IT and strategic management dimensions of blockchain for all types of industries. 

RMIT is a global frontrunner in this space, with its world-leading Blockchain Innovation Hub helping to set the national and global agenda for enterprise transformation. This graduate certificate is ideal for professionals seeking to upskill, or people seeking to transition into the blockchain field. It will prepare you to work in a globalised, international context in a range of in-demand roles and sectors.

RMIT Bursary

If you’re an RMIT University alumnus commencing this degree from Semester 1 2025, you may be eligible to receive a 10% reduction on your tuition fees.

Details

Studies in this graduate certificate will equip you with the knowledge and skills you will need apply and manage blockchain in public and private enterprises.

Through a multi-disciplinary curriculum that brings together theoretical and practical learning and industry perspectives, you will learn about cryptofinance, smart contracts, the legal, ethical and regulatory aspects of new technologies, and how bockchain fits into the economy.

You will experience a variety of approaches to learning and teaching in this graduate certificate.

You will be exposed to the dimensions of blockchain in business to build a broad base of knowledge and capabilities that will prepare you for the international workforce.

You'll learn from experienced professionals and academics who will share their knowledge, research and experience, and assist you in developing skills as an independent and lifelong learner.

The major styles of teaching and learning you can expect to experience will include:

Classroom teaching

Classroom teaching utilises a range of techniques, including lectures, presentations, simulations and group discussion, all designed to maximise your understanding of the curriculum. It provides an environment where you can ask questions, seek feedback and contribute to class discussion.

Problem-based learning

Working independently or as a group, you will apply knowledge to solve problems and examine case studies that relate to the business challenges you will encounter working in industry

Assignments and projects

These may be either research-based or problem-based. They will provide you with experience with research, and effective writing and presentation for a range of audiences. Assignments are designed to provide a way to receive feedback on your skills development to further enhance your capabilities.

Flexible delivery

The curriculum may incorporate extensive use of online teaching resources to support your learning, and for accessing relevant research sites. The University’s learning management system will be used for learning resources such as lecture notes and presentation slides, a range of assessment and feedback tools, discussion boards, quizzes and self-tests.

Assessment

Assessment is designed to provide you with opportunities to demonstrate your capabilities and specified learning outcomes. Methods of assessment will vary between subjects. 

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

As part of your studies, you will have the opportunity to learn from guest lecturers and advisers from industry. Subjects in your course may include industry-focused case studies. There are also opportunities to take part in a variety of business competitions, hackathons, and industry-connected student groups and forums at RMIT, including the RMIT Blockchain Association.

Full-time students can expect 12 contact hours per week (either face to face or online), plus a recommended minimum 24 hours of independent study commitment per week.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy comprises four core subjects.

Your studies in this course will span cryptofinance and the cryptoeconomy, blockchain strategy, and law and policy around emerging technologies

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy
Program code: GC180

Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Graduate Certificate in Blockchain Enabled Business
City Campus
0.5 years full-time or part time equivalent
GC180
103208E
Location
City Campus
Duration
0.5 years full-time or part time equivalent
Plan code
GC180
CRICOS
103208E
Graduate Certificate in Blockchain Enabled Business
City Campus
0.5 years full-time
GC180
103208E
Location
City Campus
Duration
0.5 years full-time
Plan code
GC180
CRICOS
103208E
Graduate Certificate in Blockchain Enabled Business
City Campus
0.5 years full-time or part time equivalent
GC180O
Location
City Campus
Duration
0.5 years full-time or part time equivalent
Plan code
GC180O
CRICOS
Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy
City Campus
5 months full-time or part-time equivalent
GC180P25
Location
City Campus
Duration
5 months full-time or part-time equivalent
Plan code
GC180P25
CRICOS

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

 

Please note: This program is not currently available for commencing students.

Career

The Graduate Certificate in Digital Economy will equip you for a career at the forefront of the new global digital economy.

It will prepare you to work in a globalised, international environment as a business analyst, consultant, policy advisor or manager in the many and varied business sectors that adopt blockchain technology. These may include finance, banking, health, trade, supply chain and logistics, and a range of government and social service agencies requiring expertise in the field.

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have:

  • An Australian bachelor degree or equivalent, or higher level qualification, in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.

If you do not meet the above entry requirement for the Graduate Certificate you may be considered if you have a minimum of 5 years full-time equivalent work experience. Applicants will be required to submit a curriculum vitae (CV).

*If your qualification was completed more than 10 years ago you will need to provide evidence of ongoing professional work and/or professional development in the same discipline as the program for which you are seeking entry to be granted credit.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have successfully completed:

An Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) or higher level of qualification in any discipline.

You may also be considered if you have a minimum of 5 years of full-time equivalent work experience. Applicants will be required to submit a curriculum vitae (CV).

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Pathways

You can gain entry to this graduate certificate from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs, if you meet the entry requirements.

Credit and recognition of prior learning

Applicants who have successfully completed postgraduate studies in a business or related discipline at another institution can have these assessed for credit or exemptions from this course consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this graduate certificate, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including postgraduate programs, subject to the program's entrance requirements.

You can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

Upon successful completion of this graduate certificate, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including postgraduate programs, subject to the program's entrance requirements.

Fees

2025 indicative fees

  • Full-fee places: AU$17,280* (2025 total).

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

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 and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

This program is offered on a full-fee paying basis only. If you are offered a place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

This program is approved for income support.

You may be eligible for student income support payments from the Commonwealth Government if you are undertaking a graduate certificate, graduate diploma or an approved professionally oriented masters by coursework program. For more information see Income support for Masters students.

If you are enrolled in an eligible program you will also need to satisfy all other student payment eligibility requirements. You can contact Centrelink or Services Australia for further information about student income support entitlements, your eligibility and how to apply.

You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.

See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

About the bursary

If you’re an RMIT University alumnus commencing this degree from Semester 1 2025, you may be eligible to receive a 10% reduction on your tuition fees.

Eligibility criteria

Eligibility

To be eligible you must be:

  • an RMIT alumnus, having completed an award program at RMIT (including RMIT Vietnam and RMIT Online), and
  • a domestic student commencing* an eligible face-to-face/On Campus (Melbourne campus) RMIT Business or Law postgraduate degree in Semester 1 2025, and
  • enrolled in a full-fee paying place.

*a student is considered commencing if they are enrolled in the first semester of their degree and have not previously been enrolled. 

Note:

  • If you become eligible for the discount during 2025 (i.e., an international student who receives Permanent Residency) you must contact Business Connect to have your eligibility assessed and the discount applied. The College of Business and Law will not monitor eligibility or apply the discount outside the normal admissions process).
  • You are eligible for the discount on course enrolments in all degrees that meet the criteria (i.e., both the Graduate Certificate and a Masters degree). 

Exclusions

RMIT Bursary:

  • Cannot be held concurrently with any other scholarship, bursary or any other monetary discounts offered by RMIT (excluding awards).
  • Will not apply to postgraduate studies undertaken in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) or online delivered programs.

Payment of bursary:

  • If eligibility is maintained, the discount will apply to all eligible course enrolments in the eligible degree in the year the discount has been awarded (i.e., 2025).
  • The discount will be applied directly to your student account and will be reflected on your invoice.
  • The discount is reviewed annually and may be removed in future years.

Application process

If you are an RMIT alumni there is no application process. Your eligibility to receive the bursary will be assessed at the time of application and enrolment. If eligible, the bursary will be applied directly to your tuition fees.

Eligible programs

All College of Business and Law postgraduate coursework programs delivered face-to-face/on campus (Melbourne campus). 

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.