At a glance
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.
JOB PROSPECTS
- Laboratory Technician
- Testing Technical Assistant
- Laboratory Assistant
- Field Assistant
COURSE OUTCOME
MSL30118 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
Course overview
Begin your career in science with this entry-level course. This course is perfect for people already employed in the industry and are looking to gain a qualification while working, or those looking to make a start. Your skills will be highly transferable across a diverse range of industries such as mining, food technology, and in the health sector.
This course will give you the practical skills and knowledge to plan and conduct laboratory and field work, perform simple scientific calculations, present information, and record and store data. You'll also develop effective interpersonal skills, learn how to follow work health and safety (WHS) policies and procedures, and comply with environmental regulations. Our highly experienced staff are still strongly embedded in the industry and will give you the one-on-one guidance you need to succeed.
Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as a laboratory assistant in food technology, pathology, schools or trades. It will also give you the foundation knowledge you need to undertake further studies in the field.
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.
If you are passionate about a career in science have a chat to our friendly staff about upgrading your qualification. By successfully completing this course you'll be eligible for entry into our Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques (MSL40118).
Units
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 7 elective units from the list below.
| UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
|---|---|---|
| MSL913003 |
Communicate with other people | |
| MSL913004 |
Plan and conduct laboratory/field work | |
| MSL922001 |
Record and present data | |
| MSL933006 |
Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives | |
| MSL943004 |
Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety | |
| MSMENV272 |
Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices | |
Note: Not all electives are available at all campuses.
| UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
|---|---|---|
| Existing workers | ||
| MSL914002 |
Prepare practical science classes and demonstrations | |
| MSL924003 |
Process and interpret data | |
| MSL924004 |
Use laboratory application software | |
| MSL933005 |
Maintain the laboratory/field workplace fit for purpose | |
| MSL933008 |
Perform calibration checks on equipment and assist with its maintenance | |
| MSL934006 |
Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes | |
| MSL934007 |
Maintain and control stocks | |
| MSL952001 |
Collect routine site samples | |
| MSL953003 |
Receive and prepare samples for testing | |
| MSL954004 |
Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan | |
| MSL973013 |
Perform basic tests | |
| MSL973014 |
Prepare working solutions | |
| MSL973015 |
Prepare culture media | |
| MSL973016 |
Perform aseptic techniques | |
| MSL973019 |
Perform microscopic examination | |
| MSL973020 |
Perform histological procedures | |
| Non-existing workers | ||
| MSL904002 |
Perform standard calibrations | |
| MSL954004 |
Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan | |
| MSL973013 |
Perform basic tests | |
| MSL973014 |
Prepare working solutions | |
| MSL973015 |
Prepare culture media | |
| MSL973016 |
Perform aseptic techniques | |
| MSL973019 |
Perform microscopic examination | |
| TAFE at School | ||
| MSL933005 |
Maintain the laboratory/field workplace fit for purpose | |
| MSL973016 |
Perform aseptic techniques | |
| MSL973019 |
Perform microscopic examination | |
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.
Choosing to study a TAFE at School course is a great way to get a vocational qualification while you’re still in high school. You also gain valuable credits towards your QCE, an apprenticeship, a diploma or university.
TAFE at School gives you a taste of what higher education is all about, makes you work-ready, and helps you build practical skills in an adult-learning environment. Successful completion of a TAFE at School qualification gives you direct entry into any of our diploma courses. Learn more
What you need to know about TAFE at School
Eligibility
You must be a Year 10, 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school. In addition, the duration of your TAFE at School course cannot be longer than your remaining high school studies. Speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor for more information.
Course placements are subject to availability.
Outcome
MSL30118 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
QCE points: 8
Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please visit the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) website.
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.
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 is the total amount you need to pay when you enrol. 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
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.
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 