For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: MSL40122 | CRICOS Code: 112040E
Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
OverviewAbout this course
The Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques will give you the skills and confidence to work safely in a laboratory environment. During this course, you'll prepare and analyse a range of chemical and biological samples and perform chemical and biological experiments. You'll also gain an understanding of work, health and safety (WHS) procedures including infection control.
Learn to process and interpret data, and maintain instruments and equipment. Gain experience receiving and preparing samples for testing and perform microscopic examinations and laboratory procedures.
TAFE NSW's laboratories are designed to reflect actual industry-standard workspaces, providing you with an authentic experience. Throughout the course, you'll have the opportunity to practise your new skills with cutting-edge lab technology.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
Through a mix of theory and practical coursework,learn to:
- Use a microscope to examine a range of samples
- Perform basic pathology tests and procedures
- Work safely in a laboratory environment
- Complete laboratory tasks both individually and as part of a team
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in:
- Preparing and analysing a range of chemical and biological samples
- Performing chemical and biological experiments
- Performing manual, semi-automated and fully automated laboratory procedures
- Understanding work, health and safety (WHS) procedures including infection control
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:
- Strong attention to detail
- An honest nature and ability to maintain confidentiality
- The ability to perform time-sensitive tasks
- Self-motivation and initiative
- Great teamwork
- Complex problem solving skills
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Technical Assistant
- LaboratoryAssistant
- School Laboratory Technician
- Biological Testing Technical Assistant
- Environmental Field Assistant (Sample Testing)
- Environmental Testing Technical Assistant
- Construction Materials Testing Technical Assistant
- Water Quality Laboratory Assistant
- Food Testing Laboratory Assistant
- Polymer Testing Laboratory 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.
Academic Requirements:
- Year 12 or equivalent
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
- Teamwork skills and the ability to work individually
- An interest in science and engineering
- Comfort with basic maths calculations
- Foundational computer skills
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 | Feb, Jul | $15,810 AUD |
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $15,810 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Granville | Feb, Jul | $16,500 AUD |
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $16,500 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.
4 core units 12 elective units, consisting of at least 1 unit from Group A at least 7 additional units from Group A or B 4 units from the electives listed below or any endorsed Training Package or accredited course – these units must be relevant to the work outcome
Core units are the required units that you must complete.
Process and interpret dataMSL924005
Maintain instruments and equipmentMSL934008
Apply quality system and continuous improvement processesMSL934009
Maintain laboratory or field workplace safetyMSL944002
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
Grow your expertise with a TAFE NSW laboratory study pathway:
- Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology)
- Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Food)
- Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Chemistry)
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 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