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MSL50118

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Take your career in the lab further with this advanced-level course which is perfect for people looking to upgrade their qualification while working in the industry.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 22 Jan 2024 Duration: 1 year View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Concession
$12,660 - $13,500
Subsidised
$12,675 - $14,865
Full Fee
$18,525 - $19,440
Eligibility Calculator

Course overview

Gain practical skills to increase your employability or increase your skills if you are already working in a laboratory.  This high level tertiary qualification focuses on a range of cutting edge science techniques for you to stand out in a crowd of science graduates.  Your skills will be transferable across a diverse number of industries including but not limited to:  clinical science, pathology pharmaceutical and forensic science. 

You will learn how to interpret information using current scientific data analysis approaches and record data in accordance with industry standard protocols. Gain experience in a range of practical areas and learn from industry current and highly qualified teachers on scientific equipment found in a real working laboratory. 

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as a technical officer or laboratory technician in a range of industries including biotechnology, chemical and environmental analysis and food and beverage testing.

What can I do?

  • Analyst
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Technical Officers

Course outcome:

MSL50118 Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Upgrade to Diploma

The upgrade option is available for students who have completed the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques and wish to upgrade to the Diploma of Laboratory Technology. Please refer to Need to know for further information.

Job-ready training

We put theory into practice, which is why you will spend more time training in our laboratories than in a classroom. Our strong industry partnerships mean you'll graduate with confidence, knowing you have employee sought after skills and be industry ready to hit the ground running.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 10 elective units from the list below.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL924003
    Process and interpret data
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL924003
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to retrieve data, evaluate formulae and perform scientific calculations, present and interpret information in tables and graphs and keep accurate records. The unit requires personnel to solve problems of limited complexity where the information may be less obvious, but not contradictory, and can be determined by direct reasoning.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Process and interpret data

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL924004
    Use laboratory application software
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL924004
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to use and apply computer software for analysing and reporting in the laboratory, field and/or production plants.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Use laboratory application software

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL925004
    Analyse data and report results
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL925004
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to perform scientific calculations, analyse trends and uncertainty in data and report results within the required timeframe.

    Pre-requisite unit :
    MSL924003
  • UNIT NAME
  • Analyse data and report results

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL934004
    Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL934004
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to check the serviceability and calibration of laboratory/field instruments and equipment and perform routine maintenance, such as cleaning and replacement of consumables and minor components. Personnel are also required to perform basic troubleshooting and repairs consistent with warranty and service agreements.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL935007
    Monitor the quality of test results and data
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL935007
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to analyse a series of test results and data to detect potential or actual non-conformances, assess their significance and recommend preventative or corrective actions. The unit assumes personnel will have access to workplace quality assurance procedures based on Australian and/or international standards. This unit of competency does not cover the adaptation or development of test methods or procedures.

    Pre-requisite unit :
    MSL924003
  • UNIT NAME
  • Monitor the quality of test results and data

Ways to study
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATES DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
22 Jan 2024
1 year
Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 5 days per week
  • Concession: $12,660
  • Subsidised: $12,675
  • Full fee: $18,525
demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

22 Jan 2024

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 5 days per week

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $12,660
  • Subsidised: $12,675
  • Full fee: $18,525
Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

    The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

South Bank
On Campus
22 Jan 2024
6 months
Upgrade from Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 2 days per week
  • Concession: $13,500
  • Subsidised: $14,865
  • Full fee: $19,440
demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

22 Jan 2024

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Upgrade from Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 2 days per week

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $13,500
  • Subsidised: $14,865
  • Full fee: $19,440
Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

    The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

Download Brochure

Diploma of Laboratory Technology (MSL50118)

Ask a question

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

COURSE CODE: MSL50118
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more
VET Student Loan - $16,788 cap

This is an interest-free personal loan from the Australian Government that provides eligible students access to capped funding to help pay for their studies.

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Important Information

Read this before applying

Entry requirements

You must have completed one of the following to enter into this course:

  • hold a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques; or
  • hold a relevant Certificate IV or higher level qualification in a relevant science discipline; or
  • can demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge in a relevant science discipline to any of the above qualifications.
Selection criteria

If you do not have a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques:

  • and are approved for direct entry, you must still complete all 15 units in the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (plus any pre-requisite units), either by course work. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), or credit transfer. Additional units completed by course work or RPL will increase the cost and duration of your course by up to 12 months.
  • and are not approved for direct entry, you must successfully complete the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques before enrolling in the Diploma of Laboratory Technology.


Full-time delivery: Due to the high-level content of this course, competency in mathematics, science and English (equivalent to Year 10 or above) are highly desirable but not a requirement. If you’re under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions may apply.

Resources required

No specific resources are required to successfully complete this course.

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Need to know

Upgrade to Diploma Program

This option is available to students who have successfully completed the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques and wish to upgrade to the Diploma of Laboratory Technology.

Please note:  at a minimum your Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques must contain the following units, plus at least two diploma level electives (units coded at 5000 or above) or you may need additional semesters of study to complete the full diploma:

  • MSL924003 Process and interpret data
  • MSL934004 Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment
  • MSL973016 Perform aseptic techniques
  • MSL974019 Perform chemical tests and procedures
  • MSL974021 Perform biological procedures 

To achieve this upgrade program, the following units will need to be successfully completed:

  • MSL924004 Use laboratory application software
  • MSL925004 Analyse date and report results
  • MSL935007 Monitor the quality of test results and data
  • MSL975034 Perform molecular biology tests and procedures
  • MSL975039 Apply electrophoretic techniques
  • MSL975040 Apply routine chromatographic techniques

Transition statement

Replacement qualification
This qualification has been replaced by MSL50122 - Diploma of Laboratory Technology, as of 19 December 2022. A transition period applies to enable current students to complete their study. The transition period finishes on 18 December 2023. Students who have not fully completed this qualification prior to this date will be transitioned into the replacement qualification. 

Assessment Methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to Apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland.

Course Disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more