At a glance
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.
JOB PROSPECTS
- Biological Technical Assistant
- Food Testing Technical Assistant
- Technical Assistant (Mineral Assay)
- Environmental Technician
- Laboratory Technician
COURSE OUTCOME
MSL40118 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
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. Choose from a number of specialisations including 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, mining, and food technology.
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.
Our teaching staff are at the top of their game and are still heavily involved in the industry. This means you're being taught by people who know what employers are looking for and where the sector is headed.
Units
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 10 elective units from the list below.
| UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
|---|---|---|
| MSL924003 |
Process and interpret data | |
| MSL934004 |
Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment | |
| MSL934006 |
Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes | |
| MSL944002 |
Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety | |
| MSL953003 |
Receive and prepare samples for testing | |
Note: Not all electives are available at all campuses.
| UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
|---|---|---|
| MSL973019 |
Perform microscopic examination | |
| MSL973020 |
Perform histological procedures | |
| MSL954003 |
Relate anatomical and physiological features to laboratory samples | |
| MSL973015 |
Prepare culture media | |
| MSL973016 |
Perform aseptic techniques | |
| MSL974021 |
Perform biological procedures | |
| MSL974019 |
Perform chemical tests and procedures | |
| MSL974017 |
Prepare, standardise and use solutions | |
| MSL975033 |
Perform tissue and cell culture techniques | |
| MSL975035 |
Perform microbiological tests | |
Note: Not all electives are available at all campuses.
Ways to study
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
What you need to know about studying on campus
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.
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
What you need to know about apprenticeships and traineeships
Eligibility
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).
COST
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.
Get In touch
Find out how we can tailor a training package specifically for you.
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.
What you need to know about studying as an International student
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.
In addition to your scheduled class hours you will be expected to complete additional study in your own time.
The course cost indicated is for students on an international student visa. If you’re visiting Australia on a non-student visa (e.g. partner visa, working holiday, employer sponsor etc.) please contact us directly for the price applicable to you.
Do you need help?
- email us your questions
- call us on +61 7 3244 5100
- find an agent to help with your application
- check out our frequently asked questions (FAQs).
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
Payment options
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.
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.
Payment plan
If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.
Important Information
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
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.
Workplace/TAFE delivery: Applicants for this workplace based qualification are required to be currently employed in a laboratory or testing environment with support from a suitably qualified workplace supervisor. The scope of work based tasks available to the applicant must be sufficient to fulfil the practical requirements of this program.
International students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to International students:
- English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 5.5 (no individual band less than 5.0) or ISLPR 2+ on all skills or other - For a list of all English Language test 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.
Students should be a minimum of 18 years of age. Student visa applicants under the age of 18 will be accepted where they demonstrate that they will be accompanied by a parent, legal custodian or a suitable relative who is aged 21 or over. This arrangement requires the approval of the Department of Home Affairs. For more information visit Department of Home Affairs - Welfare Requirements for Student Visa Applicants under 18.
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.
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.
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.
How to apply
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. 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.
Get started with TAFE Queensland
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.
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 