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

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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

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
MSL954003

Relate anatomical and physiological features to laboratory samples

UNIT CODE :
MSL954003

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to recognise and interpret different types of biological test samples to direct the specimen to the correct laboratory for appropriate testing. It covers knowledge of anatomy to interpret histology samples and knowledge of physiology to interpret pathology samples.
UNIT NAME
Relate anatomical and physiological features to laboratory samples

UNIT CODE
MSL973020

Perform histological procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL973020

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to perform straightforward histological procedures involving processing and sectioning (by hand or rotary microtome) of plant and/or animal tissues in paraffin wax.
UNIT NAME
Perform histological procedures

UNIT CODE
MSL974017

Prepare, standardise and use solutions

UNIT CODE :
MSL974017

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to prepare, standardise and monitor the quality of solutions.
UNIT NAME
Prepare, standardise and use solutions

UNIT CODE
MSL974019

Perform chemical tests and procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL974019

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to interpret chemical test requirements, prepare samples, conduct pre-use and calibration checks on equipment and perform routine chemical tests. These tests will involve several measurement steps. The unit includes basic data processing and interpretation of results.
UNIT NAME
Perform chemical tests and procedures

UNIT CODE
MSL974021

Perform biological procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL974021

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to interpret work requirements, prepare samples, and perform routine biological procedures. These procedures may involve several steps and are used to classify organisms and biologically active compounds by analysing their biological and/or chemical characteristics. This unit includes interpretation of results and troubleshooting obvious departures from standard procedures.
UNIT NAME
Perform biological procedures

UNIT CODE
MSL975033

Perform tissue and cell culture techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL975033

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to prepare, maintain and preserve cells and cell lines for a variety of applications, such as large scale culture, production of monoclonal antibodies, production of viral vaccines and amniocentesis studies. Personnel are required to optimise equipment set-up, media and growth techniques. They are required to detect and investigate contamination and take preventative and/or corrective actions under supervision.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL973016
UNIT NAME
Perform tissue and cell culture techniques

UNIT CODE
MSL975034

Perform molecular biology tests and procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL975034

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to isolate, purify, verify and manipulate biomolecules and their products. This work requires close attention to working with small volumes, multiple-step procedures and prevention of contamination. Personnel are required to apply a wide range of molecular biology tests and procedures.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL973016 , MSL974021
UNIT NAME
Perform molecular biology tests and procedures

UNIT CODE
MSL975035

Perform microbiological tests

UNIT CODE :
MSL975035

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to contribute to the culture, isolation and identification of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoans, algae and parasites, in order to investigate the physiology and pathology of plants and animals, monitor the natural environment, and to assist in the production of foods, pharmaceutical goods and other manufactured materials.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL973016 , MSL973019
UNIT NAME
Perform microbiological tests

UNIT CODE
MSL975039

Apply electrophoretic techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL975039

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to analyse samples using electrophoretic techniques. The unit also includes establishing client needs for routine and non-routine samples, optimising workplace procedures and instruments for specific samples, obtaining valid and reliable data and reporting test results. Personnel are required to recognise atypical test data/results and troubleshoot common analytical procedure and equipment problems.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL974019
UNIT NAME
Apply electrophoretic techniques

UNIT CODE
MSL975040

Apply routine chromatographic techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL975040

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to analyse samples using routine chromatographic techniques. The unit also includes establishing client needs for routine and non-routine samples, optimising workplace procedures and instruments for specific samples, obtaining valid and reliable data and reporting test results. Personnel are required to recognise atypical test data/results and troubleshoot common analytical procedure and equipment problems.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL974019
UNIT NAME
Apply routine chromatographic techniques

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

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On Campus

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
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 More Apply
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. Less Ask a question Apply
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 More Apply
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. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

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Diploma of Laboratory Technology (MSL50118)

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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.

Learn more

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

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

Related Courses

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

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Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement

Kick start your career in science with this entry-level course that will qualify you to gather samples required for a variety of industry testing situations.

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Tester/Sampler
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Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Upgrade to Diploma

Job-ready training

Core units

Elective Units

South Bank

South Bank

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

VET Student Loan - $16,788 cap

Important Information

Read this before applying

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Resources required

Need to know

Transition statement

Assessment Methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to Apply

Direct application

Apply through QTAC

Course Disclaimer

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related Courses

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Careers

Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Careers

Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement

Careers