Develop your career in residential or commercial construction with this hands-on signage and graphics course.
CPC30216 Certificate III in Signs and Graphics
Learn practical skills to design, manufacture, paint and install signs for displays, buildings, billboards, boats and structures. Whether you are a new employee, apprentice or existing worker, this course will enhance your employability as a sign writer or sign manufacturer.
With commercial building forecast to maintain moderate growth over the next five years, and population growth supporting underlying demand for new housing construction, the job outlook remains positive in building and construction. Computer-based technology and innovations are also driving particular demand for specialist skills.
This course covers core units common across the construction industry, as well as signage specific skills. You’ll be taught to carry out measurements and calculations, prepare surfaces and produce vinyl, fabric, screen-print, digital and LED signage.
You will be taught by trade-qualified teachers with years of experience. Our teachers maintain close industry ties, ensuring training reflects current industry practice. Our large-scale training spaces replicate commercial and residential settings, delivering a hands-on training experience.
Upon completion of this course, you will have the practical skills and confidence to manufacture and install signs in metal or plastic using a variety of techniques. If completed as part of an apprenticeship, this course will allow you to apply for a trade qualification.
If you can demonstrate substantial competency in this qualification, you may be able to access funding for recognition of prior learning and gap training through the Trade Skills and Assessment Gap Training (TSAGT) program. TAFE Queensland is a proud recipient of funding from the Queensland Government, Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) for this program. Only eligible participants may receive funding for eligible courses. Learn more about eligibility criteria.
At TAFE Queensland we maintain strong and relevant industry connections. Our teachers have their finger on the pulse and are equipped to guide you through your education to give you the ability to meet and exceed expectations set within the business world.
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 9 elective units from the list below.
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
---|---|---|
CPCCSG3001Design and lay out digital signs for productionUnit code: CPCCSG3001 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to design and lay out signs using industry-recognised design software and to prepare files to be print ready. The unit supports sign manufacturers who design and modify signs according to client requirements and prepare artwork for a range of diverse outputs, which can include vehicles, posters, billboards and panels. |
Design and lay out digital signs for production | |
CPCCSG3002Produce and apply vinyl signsUnit code: CPCCSG3002 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to produce simple and complex vinyl signs using relevant software, vinyl plotters and weeding tools. The unit supports sign manufacturers who produce vinyl signs according to client requirements, for attachment to a range of surfaces, including vehicles, metals and glass. |
Produce and apply vinyl signs | |
CPCCSG3003Colour manage signsUnit code: CPCCSG3003 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to assess and apply colour consistently across a range of visual media used to produce signs. It requires the application of colour theory and an ability to use industry-recognised software, hardware and colour matching systems for a range of output devices. The unit supports sign manufacturers working with different media where the accuracy and consistency of colour are critical to the quality of the final product. |
Colour manage signs | |
CPCCSG3004Print digital signsUnit code: CPCCSG3004 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to produce finished signs from print ready digital files, using printers and their associated software. Signs can be printed on to a range of substrates, including paper, vinyl, glass, fabric and aluminium composite, using a range of printing technology and equipment. They may also be laminated for protection. The unit supports sign manufacturers using industry-recognised software and printing equipment to produce signs that are displayed for commercial, advertising, informative and promotional purposes. |
Print digital signs | |
CPCCSG3011Install LED technology into signsUnit code: CPCCSG3011 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to select and install light emitting diode (LED) systems into signs. It covers identifying the appropriate LED system to achieve job requirements, laying out and installing the system into position, and connecting and circuit testing the system to ensure consistent distribution of light. The unit supports sign manufacturers producing illuminated signs. It applies to signs illuminated using LED technology, including light boxes and fabricated letters which, depending on how the modules are positioned inside the letter, will produce either face-illuminated or halo-lit signs. |
Install LED technology into signs | |
CPCCSG3012Fabricate signsUnit code: CPCCSG3012 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to fabricate signs using acrylic sheets and metal framing. Fabricated signs are used for a range of purposes, including light boxes, point of sale product trays, monoliths, pylons and individual letters. The unit supports sign manufacturers who fabricate custom-made signs in response to client design requirements. |
Fabricate signs | |
CPCCWHS3001Identify construction work hazards and select risk control strategiesUnit code: CPCCWHS3001 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to participate in preparing a job safety analysis (JSA) for general hazards, or a safe work method statement (SWMS) for high risk work hazards, on construction sites according to the level of responsibility of the work role as specified in work health and safety (WHS) legislation. The unit supports construction workers undertaking work on a construction site alone or as part of a team to identify hazards and select risk control strategies. It applies to construction work on residential and commercial work sites in new construction, renovation or refurbishment, and maintenance projects. No licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit of competency at the time of endorsement. |
Identify construction work hazards and select risk control strategies |
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
---|---|---|
AURVTP2009Apply vehicle body film wrappingUnit code: AURVTP2009 Unit description: This unit describes the performance outcomes required to prepare various vehicle body surfaces and apply vinyl film wrapping materials. |
Apply vehicle body film wrapping | |
CPCCCM2006Apply basic levelling proceduresUnit code: CPCCCM2006 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to carry out levelling in a single plane for the purpose of establishing correct and accurate set-out of building components. It includes the set-up, testing and use of levelling devices, and establishing and transferring heights using a range of levelling equipment. The unit supports workers in the construction industry who use a variety of common methods and equipment when working with others and as a member of a team. It applies to levelling work on residential and commercial work sites. |
Apply basic levelling procedures | |
CPCCCM2010Work safely on scaffolding higher than two metresUnit code: CPCCCM2010 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to work safely on construction sites where the work activity involves working above two metres from ground level and where fall protection measures are required. It covers safe methods for accessing the work site; and safe methods of moving or passing tools, equipment and materials to heights above two metres, including handling methods that avoid excessive bending or twisting. The unit supports construction workers operating from scaffolding over two metres in height that has already been constructed with signage and exclusion barriers in place, in order to reach upper storeys or roofs of buildings. It applies to workers who need to control the risk of falling and of falling objects when working on site or removing scaffold components. It applies to construction work on residential and commercial work sites in new construction, renovation or refurbishment, and maintenance projects. No licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit of competency at the time of endorsement. |
Work safely on scaffolding higher than two metres | |
CPCCCM3004Identify and apply information in construction plans, drawings and specificationsUnit code: CPCCCM3004 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to identify work site details and scope of work requirements from construction plans, drawings and specifications, and to apply that information to the initial scheduling and preparation for the work. Work tasks may relate to different areas of work and can include shopfitting, carpentry, construction and painting. The unit supports construction workers at the early stages of work when the first site visits are made and work requirements are clarified with the client or project manager. It applies to residential and commercial construction projects. No licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit of competency at the time of endorsement. |
Identify and apply information in construction plans, drawings and specifications | |
CPCCSG3005Engrave signsUnit code: CPCCSG3005 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to engrave signs using specialist rotary engravers. It covers setting up and initialising computer software to interact with the engraving system, preparing tools and materials for engraving, and operating high speed equipment to produce detailed sign artwork that meets client requirements. |
Engrave signs | |
CPCCSG3010Hand render pictorialsUnit code: CPCCSG3010 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to produce and lay out hand-rendered pictorial images that form signs on a range of surfaces. The unit supports sign manufacturers who work on site, painting the required sign directly on to a surface, using a range of paints, brushes and application techniques. |
Hand render pictorials | |
CPCCSG3016Prepare surfaces for signsUnit code: CPCCSG3016 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to ensure surfaces are prepared and ready for fixing signs. The unit covers assessing surfaces, which can include metals, plastics, brick and plasterboard walls; identifying the extent of preparation required; selecting and preparing equipment; and applying materials to the surface safely and effectively, minimising damage to surrounding areas. |
Prepare surfaces for signs | |
CPCCSG3017Erect and install signsUnit code: CPCCSG3017 Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to erect and install signs to surfaces and structures, safely and according to client requirements. The unit supports installers of signs working in a range of settings who must ensure appropriate permits are in place prior to erecting a sign, that the surface is suitable for installing the sign, and that appropriate fasteners and fixings have been selected for the task. |
Erect and install signs | |
MSFFM3022Set up, operate and maintain computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining and processing centresUnit code: MSFFM3022 Unit description: This unit of competency covers setting up, operating and maintaining CNC machining and processing centres to produce furniture or components. |
Set up, operate and maintain computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining and processing centres |
Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.
At TAFE Queensland, we understand that employers need options and flexibility in employee training. We are committed to delivering the flexible training plans you need to get the job done. Choose from workplace training, block training, drop in days, mobile training, day release, or a mix of all these options. Learn more
Campus | Apprenticeship / Traineeship | Delivery Mode
![]() The way your training is delivered. |
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Workplace
![]() Train and be assessed in your current workplace. |
DROP IN DAYS
![]() Train with a teacher at a TAFE Queensland facility without an appointment. |
BLOCK TRAINING
![]() Flexible training offered in blocks ranging from three days to six weeks. |
DAY RELEASE
![]() Weekly scheduled training at a TAFE Queensland facility, planned in advance. |
MOBILE VAN
![]() Training undertaken at your workplace with TAFE Queensland tools and equipment. |
Mixed mode
![]() A combination of two or more delivery modes. |
||
South Bank | Apprenticeship |
You must already be employed to enrol as an apprentice or trainee with TAFE Queensland. Speak to your employer about choosing TAFE Queensland as your Supervising Registered Training Organisation (SRTO).
Eligible apprentices and trainees that meet the Queensland state funding requirements will be charged a set fee per nominal hour. These fees are calculated at a regulated rate of $1.60 per nominal hour. Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
Non-funded apprentices and trainees will be charged a fee for service cost. These will be confirmed prior to the commencement of training.
Information regarding costs will be outlined on the agreed training plan, which will be provided to the employer and apprentice or trainee at time of induction.
Find out how we can tailor a training package specifically for you.
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 pathwaysNo 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.
This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.
If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
To study an apprenticeship or traineeship program you must be indentured as an apprentice or trainee with your employer.
Employers need to be able to provide the necessary human and physical resources to qualify for an apprentice.
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.
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.
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.
Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. Getting recognition for the skills you've gained from the workplace or previous learning means less study time for you, and getting the paper to prove you're qualified a whole lot sooner. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.
If you have read and understood the student rules, refund policy, understand your fees and payment options, have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) and checked you meet the entry requirements and selection criteria for this course, you're ready to get started.
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