Back to Laboratory Science

    National code: MSL40122

    Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

    Ask a question

    OverviewAbout this course

    Launch your laboratory operations career with the skills you need to become a technical assistant or laboratory technician. Learn to perform basic pathology, chemistry and food tests and procedures as you work safely in a laboratory environment.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learning outcomes

    Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:

    • Work in a laboratory

    • Prepare and analyse a range of chemical and biological samples

    • Perform chemical and biological experiments

    • Use a microscope to examine a range of samples

    • Perform manual, semi-automated and fully automated laboratory procedures

    • Understand work, health and safety procedures including infection control

    Course outcomes

    Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.

    • A nationally accredited qualification at a Certificate IV level

    • Strong pathways to continue your studies in laboratory operations and enhance your career opportunities

    • The skills and experience to work safely in a laboratory environment as a technical assistant

    • The confidence to perform basic pathology tests and procedures

    • The ability to work both individually and as part of a team

    SuitabilityIs this course right for you?

    Entry requirements

    Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol

    • There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.

    • This course is offered as a traineeship. Enquire today to check the eligibility requirements.

    Entry recommendations

    To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:

    • Good written and verbal communication skills

    • Teamwork skills and the ability to work individually

    • An interest in science and engineering

    • Comfort with basic maths calculations

    • Foundational computer skills

    • Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) at a Year 10 high school level

    Note:

    • TAFE NSW may ask you to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test. This helps us to understand your individual study needs, to design an individualised plan that supports your study success and ensures your LLN skills match the demands of the course.

    TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.

    PathwaysFuture career and study options

    Career pathways

    Our graduates go onto roles like: technical assistant and laboratory technician.

    Study pathways

    Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:

    Previous study2 Courses

    Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.

    Further study3 Courses

    Advance your skills to take your career to the next level

    Related study0 Courses

    Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.

    The Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques does not have any related courses.

    Your experience counts

    At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.

    UnitsUnits taught in this course

    Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 16 units of competency, including 4 core and 12 speciality units.

    Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.

    Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.

    • Process and interpret dataMSL924005

    • Maintain instruments and equipmentMSL934008

    • Apply quality system and continuous improvement processesMSL934009

    • Maintain laboratory or field workplace safetyMSL944002

    TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service

    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support

    • TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)

    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service

    • TAFE NSW Libraries

    • Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential

    • Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home

    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    • Student associations – get social with our student community

    Study optionsFind a location to enrol