MSL30122 | CRICOS: 113987A

Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

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.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane

WAYS TO STUDY On campus TAFE at School Apprenticeships and traineeships International

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 14 Jul 2025 Duration: 2 terms View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$705

Subsidised

$1,250

Full Fee

$5,580

TAFE at School Full Fee

$2,605

International

$6,760 - $7,000

Eligibility calculator

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.

What can I do?

Laboratory Technician
Testing Technical Assistant
Laboratory Assistant
Field Assistant

Course outcome:

MSL30122 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Easy upgrade options

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).

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 8 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
BSBCMM211

Apply communication skills

UNIT CODE :
BSBCMM211

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply basic communication skills in the workplace, including identifying, gathering and conveying information along with completing assigned written information.
UNIT NAME
Apply communication skills

UNIT CODE
MSL913004

Plan and conduct laboratory/field work

UNIT CODE :
MSL913004

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to plan and complete tasks individually or in a team context. The tasks involve established routines and procedures using allocated resources with access to readily available guidelines and advice. Work plans may need to be modified with supervisor agreement to suit changing conditions and priorities.
UNIT NAME
Plan and conduct laboratory/field work

UNIT CODE
MSL922002

Record and present data

UNIT CODE :
MSL922002

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to record and store data, perform simple calculations of scientific quantities and present information in tables and graphs. The unit requires personnel to solve predictable problems using clear information or known solutions. Where alternatives exist, they are limited or apparent.
UNIT NAME
Record and present data

UNIT CODE
MSL933009

Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives

UNIT CODE :
MSL933009

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to apply quality principles to laboratory or field work to achieve quality outcomes.
UNIT NAME
Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives

UNIT CODE
MSL943004

Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety

UNIT CODE :
MSL943004

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to follow work health and safety (WHS) policies and procedures, deal with the identification and control of hazards, work safely at all times, follow emergency response procedures and contribute to the maintenance of workplace safety.
UNIT NAME
Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
MSL904003

Perform standard calibrations

UNIT CODE :
MSL904003

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to calibrate test and measurement equipment in accordance with standard calibration procedures and documented test methods. These procedures/methods specify all associated reference standards, materials, equipment and methods to be used and the required parameters or quantities and ranges to be tested, including the criteria for rejection or approval.
UNIT NAME
Perform standard calibrations

UNIT CODE
MSL952003

Collect routine site samples

UNIT CODE :
MSL952003

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to collect samples at field or production sites using specified equipment and workplace procedures.
UNIT NAME
Collect routine site samples

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
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
MSL973025

Perform basic tests

UNIT CODE :
MSL973025

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to prepare samples and perform tests and measurements using standard methods with access to readily available advice from supervisors.
UNIT NAME
Perform basic tests

UNIT CODE
MSL973026

Prepare working solutions

UNIT CODE :
MSL973026

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to prepare working solutions and to check that existing stocks of solutions are suitable for use. Working solutions include those required to perform laboratory tests. Personnel are required to calculate quantities and make dilutions.
UNIT NAME
Prepare working solutions

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
MSMENV272

Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices

UNIT CODE :
MSMENV272

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to comply with environmental regulations, identify environment issues and minimise the risks of negative impact on work and carry out improvements in own work area.
UNIT NAME
Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices

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	6 months	Full time up to 3 days per week	Concession: $705 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,580 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. 6 months 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 up to 3 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $705 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,580 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

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	14 Jul 2025	2 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Full Fee: $2,605 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 2 terms 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. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $2,605 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. 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. 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

Choose your study location

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
South Bank	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

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	14 Jul 2025	6 months	Full time up to 3 days per week	International: $6,760 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more 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. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months 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 up to 3 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY International: $6,760 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more 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
South Bank	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2026	6 months	Full time up to 3 days per week	International: $7,000 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more 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. 6 months 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 up to 3 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY International: $7,000 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more 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.

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

You must be a Year 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school, in some instances Year 10 students may be considered. 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.

QCE points: up to 8

Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor, or 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, online or a mix of all these options. Learn more

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).

Costs:

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.

As an international student at TAFE Queensland you will gain practical, hands-on experience in our purpose-built classrooms, laboratories and workshops with the same tools and equipment used in industry.

Studying with TAFE Queensland, an internationally recognised education provider, will give you the skills and knowledge to launch your career.

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 across Queensland, while enjoying the unique Australian landscape, culture, and lifestyle

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 III in Laboratory Skills (MSL30122)

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Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

COURSE CODE: MSL30122

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 3 in English, 3 in Maths and 3 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

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.

TAFE at School delivery: You are required to have successfully completed MSL20122 Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement prior to enrolment into this course.

Traineeship pathway: To study a traineeship program you must be indentured as a trainee with your employer. Employers need to be able to provide necessary human and physical resources to qualify for a trainee.
Find out more on how to become an apprentice or trainee

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 10 (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.

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.

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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Diploma of Laboratory Technology

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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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Biological Technical Assistant
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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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Tester/Sampler
Food Manufacturing Tester
Air Sampler
Sample Courier
Field Assistant
Laboratory Attendant

Part Time : 2 terms

Next Start : 14 Jul 2025

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Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Easy upgrade options

Core units

Elective units

South Bank

South Bank

South Bank

South Bank

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

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

For International students

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

Careers

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Careers

Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement

Careers