MSL40118 / MSL50118 | 0101065 / 098109K

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques / Diploma of Laboratory Technology

International students

Double your qualifications and career prospects with this dual award and get the skills you need to work as a laboratory technician in the clinical science, pathology pharmaceutical, or forensic science industries.

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NEXT INTAKE International: South Bank Start date: 23 Jan 2023 Duration: 18 months

STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane

WAYS TO STUDY International

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

International

$21,000

Course overview

Double your qualifications and career prospects with this dual qualification in laboratory techniques and technology. This high-level course will equip you with the cutting-edge science techniques you need to work in number of industries including clinical science, pathology pharmaceutical and forensic science.

You'll start by learning how to log samples, check sample documentation, prepare samples for testing, perform scientific calculations, and maintain laboratory equipment. You'll then discover how to interpret information using current scientific data analysis approaches, and record data in accordance with industry-standard protocols. Our highly-experienced staff are available every step of the way to provide the one-on-one guidance you need to succeed.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as a technical officer or laboratory technician in a range of industries including biotechnology, environmental science, mining, and food technology.

What can I do?

Food Laboratory Technical Officer
Laboratory Technical Officer
Pathology Technical Officer
Biotechnology Technical Officer
Construction Materials Testing Technical Officer

Course outcome:

MSL40118 / MSL50118 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques / Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Job-ready training

We put theory into practice, which is why we believe in on-the-job training. Our strong industry partnerships mean you'll graduate with confidence, knowing you have all the skills you need to get right to work.

Dual award

Take advantage of our dual award offerings and get two qualifications instead of one. In most cases you will only need to complete a few additional units to upgrade your qualification. Save time, enhance your job prospects, and add value to your skill set.

What you will study

The successful achievement of these qualifications requires you to complete all core and 13 elective units listed below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

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
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
MSL934006

Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes

UNIT CODE :
MSL934006

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to exercise good laboratory practice (GLP) and effective participation 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
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
MSL953003

Receive and prepare samples for testing

UNIT CODE :
MSL953003

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to log samples, check sample documentation, and schedule and prepare samples for testing in accordance with workplace procedures. This unit does not include testing, tissue processing or similar techniques.
UNIT NAME
Receive and prepare samples for testing

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

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
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

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

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
MSL973015

Prepare culture media

UNIT CODE :
MSL973015

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to prepare culture media which is free of contamination to facilitate optimal growth of organisms and cells. It includes the ability to organise the materials, equipment and work environment and follow standard methods. Media may be prepared from formulated powders obtained from microbiological companies or by first principles under supervision of a technical officer or scientist.
UNIT NAME
Prepare culture media

UNIT CODE
MSL973016

Perform aseptic techniques

UNIT CODE :
MSL973016

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to perform aseptic techniques to maintain the integrity of both the sample source and the sample. It applies to sampling techniques in tissue culture and to generic microbiological procedures.
UNIT NAME
Perform aseptic techniques

UNIT CODE
MSL973019

Perform microscopic examination

UNIT CODE :
MSL973019

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
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
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

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

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
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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CAMPUS	START DATES	DURATION	WORKLOAD	STUDY MODE	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	23 Jan 2023	18 months	Full time 5 days per week	Classroom	International: $21,000 Apply

As an international student at TAFE Queensland you'll gain hands-on experience in our modern classrooms, laboratories and workshops using state-of-the-art facilities and the same tools and equipment used in industry.

Get the internationally-recognised qualification you need to launch your career while enjoying the unique Australian landscape, culture, and lifestyle.

No matter where you are in your study journey, our team of international student support advisors can help you settle into life in Australia and provide support and assistance to help you throughout your studies.

As an international student you’ll study face-to-face in a classroom with other international and Australian students at one of our campus locations.

You will be expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements. The number of hours of personal study required is dependent on your existing knowledge, skills and language needs.

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Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques / Diploma of Laboratory Technology (MSL40118 / MSL50118)

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Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques / Diploma of Laboratory Technology

COURSE CODE: MSL40118 / 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.

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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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International student payment

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

Read this before applying

Entry requirements

MSL40118 - Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

MSL50118 - Diploma of Laboratory Technology
You must have successfully completed a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques (or equivalent), or can demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge in a relevant science discipline to any of the above qualifications to gain entry to this course.

Selection criteria

English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 5.5 (no individual band less than 5.0), or ISLPR 2+ on all skill or other. 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.
Due to the high-level content of this qualification, competency in Mathematics and Science are highly desirable but not a requirement.

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. TAFE Queensland has entered an agreement with Union Institute of Language (UIL) to facilitate the provision of the welfare services (fees 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

The advertised course cost and duration will be broken down as per the following:

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques - 1 year in duration, cost $14,000
Diploma of Laboratory Technology - 6 months in duration, cost $7,000

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.
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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.

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