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.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane

WAYS TO STUDY On campus

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 27 Jan 2026 Duration: 6 months View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$4,110

Subsidised

$4,525

Full Fee

$5,900

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

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
FSKWTG011

Write highly complex workplace texts

UNIT CODE :
FSKWTG011

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to write highly complex workplace texts which may be in printed or digital formats, such as position papers or reports, organisational plans, complex instructions, case analysis reports, contracts, web content or promotional material.
UNIT NAME
Write highly complex workplace texts

UNIT CODE
MSL944002

Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety

UNIT CODE :
MSL944002

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to monitor and maintain work health and safety (WHS) within a work area where the person has supervisory responsibility for others.
UNIT NAME
Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety

UNIT CODE
MSL954006

Relate anatomical and physiological features to laboratory samples

UNIT CODE :
MSL954006

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 appropriate laboratory for 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
MSL973027

Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination

UNIT CODE :
MSL973027

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination to maintain the integrity of both the sample source, and the sample and protect people and the environment. It applies to sampling techniques in tissue culture, generic microbiological, molecular and chemical procedures.
UNIT NAME
Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination

UNIT CODE
MSL973028

Perform microscopic examination

UNIT CODE :
MSL973028

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to set up a light microscope for optimum resolution, to prepare routine samples and to observe, identify and report sample characteristics.
UNIT NAME
Perform microscopic examination

UNIT CODE
MSL974031

Prepare, standardise and use solutions

UNIT CODE :
MSL974031

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
MSL974032

Perform chemical tests and procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL974032

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
MSL974034

Perform biological procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL974034

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 or 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
MSL975060

Perform tissue or cell culture techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL975060

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 :
MSL973027
UNIT NAME
Perform tissue or cell culture techniques

UNIT CODE
MSL975061

Perform molecular biology tests and procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL975061

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to isolate, purify, verify and manipulate biomolecules and their products.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL973027 , MSL974034
UNIT NAME
Perform molecular biology tests and procedures

UNIT CODE
MSL975062

Perform microbiological tests

UNIT CODE :
MSL975062

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 animals, monitor the natural environment, and to assist in the production of foods, pharmaceutical goods and other manufactured materials.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL973027 , MSL973028
UNIT NAME
Perform microbiological tests

UNIT CODE
MSL975065

Apply electrophoretic techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL975065

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to analyse samples using electrophoretic techniques.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL974032
UNIT NAME
Apply electrophoretic techniques

UNIT CODE
MSL975066

Apply routine chromatographic techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL975066

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to analyse samples using routine chromatographic techniques.

Pre-requisite unit :
MSL974032
UNIT NAME
Apply routine chromatographic techniques

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

Ways to study

Choose your study location

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 DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	27 Jan 2026	6 months	Upgrade to diploma: Full time 2 days per week	Concession: $4,110 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $4,525 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,900 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. 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. 27 Jan 2026 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 to diploma: 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: $4,110 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $4,525 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,900 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 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 (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.

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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.

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VET Student Loan - $18,838 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

Skills check

Domestic students
You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 4 in English, 4 in Maths and 4 in Digital Technology.

If you are applying for a VET Student Loan the required levels to meet academic eligibility, as outlined by Commonwealth guidelines, is Level 4 English and Maths.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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, available subsidies, 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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Next Start : 27 Jan 2026

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Kick start your career in science with this entry-level course that qualifies you to work as a laboratory assistant in food technology, pathology, schools or trades.

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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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Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Upgrade to diploma

Job-ready training

Core units

Elective units

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 - $18,838 cap

International student payment

Entry requirements

Skills check

Selection criteria

Resources required

Important information

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

For International students

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