Holmesglen is a large government institution situated across three campuses in the southeastern suburbs of Melbourne close to shops, parks and public transport, and only 20-30 minutes from the city centre. Melbourne is considered one of the world’s most liveable cities. It is clean and safe, with a modern public transport system and a host of places to explore, visit, shop, eat and relax.

Established in 1982, Holmesglen now has an annual enrolment of over 50,000 students including almost 4,000 internationals.

Acknowledged as a leader in the field of vocational and higher education in Australia, Holmesglen offers degrees in:

Accounting

Built environment

Building Surveying

Business administration

Construction management and economics

Early childhood education

Executive administration

Facilities management

Information technology

Marketing management

Nursing

Screen production

Holmesglen also offers two Charles Sturt University degrees in business studies and hotel management. The Institute also provides specialised training to an increasing number of international students in a wide range of trade and technician programmes, including:

Air-conditioning & refrigeration

Bakery

Bricklaying

Cabinet-making

Carpentry

Cookery

Dental technology

Electronics/mechatronics

Glass and glazing

Graphic prepress

Hairdressing

Horticulture

Joinery and shopfitting

Manufacturing engineering

Metal fabrication

Pâtisserie

Plastering (Solid and Fibrous)

Stonemasonry

Wall and ceiling lining

Wall and floor tiling

Welfare work

Services

Holmesglen is open seven days every week. This allows students to complete additional studies at the weekend or to use the excellent resources and up-to-date facilities including computing laboratories, engineering workshops, graphic design studios, and the Learning Commons, which houses a library, classrooms and computers. A range of accommodation is available, including the Institute’s own houses, privately managed houses, student villages and apartments, homestay and hostel accommodation. Students who book accommodation through the Institute receive airport reception free of charge. Holmesglen provides a wide range of support services to help international students, including recreation activities that enable them to meet local students in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Other courses offered include:

Administration

Advertising

Beauty

Biotechnology

Building

Ceramics

Children’s services

Commerce

Conservation & Land Management

Events

Furniture Design

Justice

Interactive digital media

Graphic design

Hospitality

Human resources

Information technology

Interior design

International business

Laboratory technology

Management

Marketing

Multimedia

Naturopathy

Professional writing

Recreation

Remedial massage

Screen and Media

Spa management

Sports management

TESOL

Tourism

Visual arts

Youth work

Jack Avison, 22, is studying cabinet making at Holmesglen 

“In 2007 I visited Australia on a working holiday visa to broaden my horizons and to obtain new life experiences. I travelled the country but fell in love with Melbourne, and after staying here for nine months, decided I wanted to learn a new trade and live here. The decision was a tough one because I was leaving my family and friends, although after having so much fun in Melbourne the first time I can honestly say it is the best decision I have ever made.

“Melbourne is simply a fantastic place to live with a huge array of sport, nightlife and outdoor activities to be involved in. Also, coming from England, I appreciate the regular bouts of sunshine and having the chance to actually maintain a tan! The diverse range of cultures means that there is always a chance to experience something new and to meet interesting people.

“I have been studying cabinet making for just over six months and have already acquired the range of basic skills needed for a promising career in this line of work.

I came into this course with basically no experience however the friendly staff ensure that everyone is supported to their own individual needs and abilities. Holmesglen uses the best equipment and every student is equipped with the right tools, so we only have to concentrate on our skills. Already I have completed over five projects and friends are impressed with the speed at which I am progressing.

"Our current teacher is fantastic, especially with the less fluent English speakers, because he explains procedures in a patient manner, as well as being very approachable if we have any questions. He also gives advice on work experience and provides us with the contacts necessary to expand into the industry.

“If I was to give advice to anyone moving to Australia to study, I would say, just go for it and you will never look back. Not only will you acquire new skills and abilities but you will also gain experiences and great memories that will stay with you forever.”