The Western Bulldogs Football Club and Victoria University (VU) are proud to announce the launch of a Diploma of Sport, a new industry-connected qualification designed to give aspiring sports professionals an unrivalled pathway into the sport and recreation sector.
Beginning in 2027, the one-year, full-time TAFE qualification will combine classroom learning with immersive industry experiences, providing students with direct exposure to one of Australia's leading professional sporting organisations.
Delivered across VU’s Footscray Park Campus and the Bulldogs' Mission Whitten Oval, students will gain practical insights into the operations of elite sport while developing skills and networks to build successful careers in the industry.
The Diploma of Sport (Sport Development) has been designed for students who are passionate about sport and eager to turn that passion into a profession, whether they are finishing secondary school, considering a pathway to university, or seeking a practical and accessible avenue into the sports industry.
Through more than 100 hours of practical experience, students will have the opportunity to learn through real-world industry placements and experiences across the Western Bulldogs organisation, including exposure to sporting events, football operations, high-performance environments and sports business functions.
Students will explore a broad range of industry areas including:
- Sport Development
- Sport Business, Management and Leadership
- Event Management
- High-Performance Sport
- Marketing and Commercial Partnerships
- Membership and Fan Engagement
The course includes industry-aligned event management units, enabling students to develop practical skills in planning, administering and delivering sporting and corporate events of all sizes.
Classes will be taught by industry-connected experts and complemented by immersive learning opportunities within the Western Bulldogs, giving students first-hand experience of the inner workings of an elite sporting organisation.
Western Bulldogs Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer Kon Karavias said the partnership reflects the Club's commitment to creating meaningful pathways into sport.
“Victoria University continues to be such a vital and long-standing partner for our Club, with this new program a natural evolution, and extending on our leadership position within combining education and sport,” he said.
"This program offers students a unique opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals while gaining practical experience in a high-performance sporting environment.
“We're excited to help develop the next generation of talent and provide real pathways into careers across the sports industry.”
Ranked 6th in the world for Sports Science according to the Shanghai Ranking’s Global Raking of Sport Science Schools and Departments, VU is well placed to deliver this new Diploma.
"We are proud to partner with the Western Bulldogs to deliver hands-on learning, strong industry connections and career-ready skills,”VU TAFE CEO Wayne Butson said.
“Students will graduate with real-world experience or the opportunity to pathway into further related areas of study at VU including sports management, exercise science, business or events management.”
Applications will open soon, with students able to apply through both VTAC and direct-entry pathways.
Prospective students are encouraged to express interest via the Western Bulldogs Institute website to receive key updates, application information, important dates and exclusive opportunities, including access to complimentary Western Bulldogs match tickets.
Find out more in person at the Melbourne Career Expo at MCEC on 17-19 July 2026.
Register for the dedicated Information Session at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday 1 August 2026.
For the most up to date course information, fees and Skills First subsidy eligibility, visit Victoria University website.
