For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: MSL50122 | CRICOS Code: 112045M
Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology) - (Part of Package)
OverviewAbout this course
Gain technical skills and practical experience with the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology) at TAFE NSW.
During this course, you'll gain an understanding of disease states in the body and how they are diagnosed and treated. You'll learn to identify different types of bacteria and how to choose the appropriate antibiotics for treatment. You'll also build experience using laboratory application software and maintaining and calibrating instruments and equipment.
At TAFE NSW, you’ll study modern laboratory techniques in a simulated workplace environment. Our labs are built in accordance with industry guidelines to simulate real working laboratories. During the course, you'll have the opportunity to use advanced chemical instrumentation.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:
- Work independently and as part of a team to perform a variety of pathology tests and procedures
- Understand disease states in the body and detecting cancers
- Follow pathology procedures including collecting tissue and blood samples, preparing and analysing samples, reporting results and determining appropriate treatments
- Analyse tissue samples and detect cancers
- Use a range of manual, automated and semi-automated laboratory procedures and tests
- Use the latest molecular techniques to conduct genetic testing and viral testing
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in:
- Understanding how disease states are diagnosed and treated
- Identifying different types of bacteria and choosing the appropriate antibiotics treatment
- Using up-to-date laboratory machinery and equipment including microscopes
- Collecting and preparing tissue samples for analysis
- Analysing blood samples for disease states and genetic abnormalities
- Following work, health and safety (WHS) procedures including disposing of infectious waste and contaminated samples
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:
- An honest nature and ability to maintain confidentiality
- The ability to perform time-sensitive tasks
- Self-motivation and initiative
- Strong attention to detail
- Great teamwork
- Complex problem solving skills
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Laboratory Technical Officer
- Laboratory Technical Assistant
SuitabilityInternational entry requirements
At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent
TAFE NSW makes every effort to ensure your Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs are met. The level of support you need may be assessed via a review of your LLN skills with written tasks and a one-on-one interview. If you need to strengthen your LLN skills, an individual training plan will be created with you.
To be prepared for this course, it is recommended that you have:
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Self-motivation
- Collaboration skills and the ability to work individually
- An interest in science and engineering
- An understanding of arithmetic calculations
- Computer skills
- A strong background in topics such as chemistry, biology or simple statistics
If you need help preparing for study, contact us about your options.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication.
Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations
As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Granville | Jul | $14,340 AUD |
| Ultimo | Jul | $14,340 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Granville | Feb, Jul | $14,915 AUD |
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $14,915 AUD |
Additional costs
Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.
Structure and unitsWhat you will study
At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.
5 core units & 13 elective units, consisting of at least 7 units from any of the elective lists below, including at least 5 units coded at 5000 or above 6 additional units from any of the elective lists below, any endorsed Training Package or accredited course these units must be relevant to the work outcome. Any combination of electives that meets the rules above can be selected for the award of the MSL50122 Diploma of Laboratory Technology.
Core units are the required units that you must complete.
Process and interpret dataMSL924005
Use laboratory application softwareMSL924006
Maintain instruments and equipmentMSL934008
Apply quality system and continuous improvement processesMSL934009
Monitor the quality of test results and dataMSL935008
PathwaysContinue your studies
At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:
Vocational study pathway
Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW degree pathway
From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways
TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
Other university pathways
You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.
Keep learning with TAFE NSW
Whatever your career ambitions, we will help you get there with a range of courses to develop your skills, build your knowledge and prepare you for work.
TAFE NSW is here to create exceptional learner experiences and to support you on your study journey to make sure you achieve your goals.
Explore your study options across a range of disciplines and talk to your TAFE NSW Education Agent or contact us.
You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
ServicesCampus facilities and support services
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.
We offer a range of support services including:
- TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
- TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support
- TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service
- Smarthinking – online access to a tutor
- LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
We're here to help
If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.
Contact TAFE NSW International