MSL40122 | CRICOS: 112033D

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Take the next step in your career with this mid-level course designed to enhance laboratory skills and broaden scientific knowledge in your chosen technical field.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane

WAYS TO STUDY On campus

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 27 Jan 2026 Duration: 1 year View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$6,355

Subsidised

$7,840

Full Fee

$12,800

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Take the next step in your career with this mid-level course designed to enhance laboratory skills and broaden scientific knowledge in your chosen technical field. This qualification is perfect for people looking to enhance their laboratory skills and increase their employment opportunities in industries experiencing steady growth.

This course will teach you how to work effectively, meet quality standards, and perform a range of tests for use across a variety of industry sectors. Learn how to log samples, check sample documentation, prepare samples for testing, perform scientific calculations, interpret results, and maintain laboratory equipment. Specialist subjects include chemistry, biology, histology, microbiology and tissue culture. 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 technician or technical assistant in a range of fields including biotechnology, environmental science and food technology.

What can I do?

Biological Technical Assistant
Food Testing Technical Assistant
Environmental Technician
Laboratory Technician

Course outcome:

MSL40122 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Free apprenticeships for under 25s

The Queensland government is supporting young Queenslanders up to the age of 25 by providing access to fully subsidised training across a range of priority apprenticeship or traineeship qualifications. Learn more>

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 12 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
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
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
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
MSL953005

Receive and prepare samples for testing

UNIT CODE :
MSL953005

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

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
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
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
MSL973029

Perform histological procedures

UNIT CODE :
MSL973029

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

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
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

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

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2026	1 year	Full time 5 days per week	Concession: $6,355 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $7,840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $12,800 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% 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. 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. 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: $6,355 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $7,840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $12,800 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. Online, 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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Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques (MSL40122)

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Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

COURSE CODE: MSL40122

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

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.

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.

Selection criteria

Domestic students
Full-time delivery: Applicants for full-time delivery can study without being employed. If you’re under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions may apply.

Due to the high-level content of this qualification competency in Mathematics and Science are highly desirable but not a requirement.

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.
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.

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.

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. Visit the QTAC website for campus locations.

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

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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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Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Free apprenticeships for under 25s

Job-ready training

Core units

Elective units

South Bank

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

International student payment

Entry requirements

Skills check

Selection criteria

Resources required

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Apply through QTAC

For International students

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Careers

Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Careers

Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement

Careers