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MSL50122 | CRICOS: 112047J

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.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane
WAYS TO STUDY On campus International
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Jan 2025 Duration: 6 months View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Concession

Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

$3,945
Subsidised

There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

$4,345
Full Fee

This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

$5,670
International

This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

$7,600
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:

MSL50122 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 13 elective units from the list below.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL924005
    Process and interpret data
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL924005
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to retrieve data, evaluate formulae, 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
  • MSL924006
    Use laboratory application software
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL924006
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to use enterprise laboratory-specific software such as laboratory information management systems, quality information management systems, laboratory instrument software, middleware and quality control data management systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Use laboratory application software

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL934008
    Maintain instruments and equipment
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL934008
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to check the serviceability and calibration of laboratory or 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 instruments and equipment

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL934009
    Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL934009
    Unit description :
    This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to use quality laboratory practice and effectively participate in quality improvement teams. Personnel are required to ensure the quality and integrity of their own work, detect non-conformances and work with others to suggest improvements in productivity and quality.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes

  • UNIT CODE
  • MSL935008
    Monitor the quality of test results and data
    UNIT CODE :
    MSL935008
    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.

    Pre-requisite unit :
    MSL924005 , MSL934009
  • UNIT NAME
  • Monitor the quality of test results and data

  • 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 DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
6 months
Upgrade from Certificate in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 2 days per week
  • Concession: $3,945

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $4,345

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,670

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

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. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

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

6 months
Workload

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

Upgrade from Certificate in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 2 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $3,945

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $4,345

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,670

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

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

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

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

No
ASSESSMENT

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

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

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

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
  • 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 DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
6 months
Upgrade from Certificate in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 2 days per week
  • International: $7,600

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

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. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

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

6 months
Workload

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

Upgrade from Certificate in Laboratory Techniques: Full time 2 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $7,600

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

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

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

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

No
ASSESSMENT

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

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

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

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Diploma of Laboratory Technology (MSL50122)

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Diploma of Laboratory Technology

COURSE CODE: MSL50122
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 - $18,097 cap

The VET Student Loans program assists eligible students enrolled in approved courses to pay their tuition fees.  The Australian Government charges full fee-paying (non-subsidised) students a 20 per cent loan fee in addition to their tuition fees.  A VET Student Loan is a debt that must be repaid.

Learn more
International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more

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.

International students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International students:

  • English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
  • Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Selection criteria

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

  • and are approved for direct entry, you must still complete all 18 units in the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (plus any prerequisite 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

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 and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Important information

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:

  • MSL924005 Process and interpret data
  • MSL934008 Maintain instruments and equipment
  • MSL934009 Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes
  • MSL974032 Perform chemical tests and procedures
  • MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
  • MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
  • MSL974034 Perform biological procedures

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

  • MSL975066 Apply routine chromatographic techniques
  • MSL975065 Apply electrophoretic techniques
  • MSL975061 Perform molecular biology tests and procedures
  • MSL924006 Use laboratory application software
  • MSL935008 Monitor the quality of test results and data

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.

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more

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