Why choose this course?
Turn your love of science into a career in laboratory technology with this qualification. Learn the essential laboratory skills required to carry out recording and measurement of results and assist in the collection and preparation of samples.
During your studies you will learn skills to maintain a laboratory, conduct routine sampling and testing, prepare cultures, perform sterile techniques, record data, and use laboratory computing programs. You will learn about occupational health and safety (OHS) and assist with field work.
After completing this course, you will have the foundation skills to continue into the MSL40122 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques.
Career opportunities
- Field Assistant
- Instrument Operator
- Laboratory Assistant
- Laboratory Technician
- Sampler and Tester
-
An IELTS score (academic) of 6.0 with no band score less than 5.0 or equivalent.
-
Completion of the equivalent of Australian Year 10.
Your study options
Semester 1, 2025
- Tuition fee: $6,402
- Resources fee: $500
- Materials fee: $225
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.
Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.
Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment.
There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is mostly delivered in a simulated laboratory setting but field trips to sampling sites & workplaces, analytical equipment, guest speakers and work experience link learning to industry
1 semester
To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 13 units. These 13 are comprised of 5 core units and 8 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.
Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.
- BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
- MSL913004 Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
- MSL922002 Record and present data
- MSL933009 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
- MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
- MSL914002 Prepare practical science classes and demonstrations
- MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
- MSL954005 Prepare mineral samples for analysis
- MSL973022 Conduct laboratory-based acceptance tests for construction materials
- MSL973025 Perform basic tests
- MSL973026 Prepare working solutions
- MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
- MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
The methods of assessment used in this course include:
• Observation – where an assessor will directly observe your performance of activities in a real or simulated workplace, role play or exercise, or a demonstration of practical skills. An observation checklist will be completed by your assessor.
• Written assessment – which can take several forms including case studies, projects, workbooks, presentations, reports, reflective tasks, self-evaluation, and research projects.
• Questioning – in the form of written question and answers, such as tests or online quizzes. It could also be spoken questions and answers.
• Portfolio – which is a collection of evidence of your skills. This could include collections of samples of your work, observation checklists, third-party reports, products with supporting documentation, historical evidence, training records, and journals, logbooks, or work diaries.
• Work samples – which are products or items that you produce during your practical activities.
• Third party feedback – which is information we gather from the people training or supervising you.
These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is provided in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use the matrix to ensure assessments are spread across the duration of the course rather than clustered together at times.
The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.
Learning resources may include access to training manuals and/or learners’ guides, Blackboard resources, quizzes and PowerPoints, hand-outs, simulations, and additional notes.
Facilities and equipment may include access to computer labs, fully equipped laboratories, specialised equipment such as analytical balances, autoclaves, auto-pipettes, biohazard cabinets, Bunsen Burners, microscopes, digital cameras, test kits, sampling equipment, thermometers, and disposable equipment.
Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.
Semester 1, 2025
- Tuition fee: $6,402
- Resources fee: $625
- Materials fee: $0
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.
Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.
Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment.
There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this course is mostly delivered in a simulated laboratory setting with organised field trips to sampling sites and workplaces.
1 semester
To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 13 units. These 13 are comprised of 5 core units and 8 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.
Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.
- BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
- MSL913004 Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
- MSL922002 Record and present data
- MSL933009 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
- MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
- ICTICT214 Operate application software packages
- MSL952003 Collect routine site samples
- MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
- MSL973015 Prepare culture media
- MSL973025 Perform basic tests
- MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
- MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
- TAEDEL311 Provide work skill instruction
The methods of assessment used in this course include written questioning assessments to demonstrate the student’s knowledge, practical demonstration and observation of skills including performing basic tests, recording and presenting data and structured assessment activities, such as portfolios and projects.
These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is provided in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use the matrix to ensure assessments are spread across the duration of the course rather than clustered together at particular times.
The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.
Learning resources may include access to Blackboard LMS, workbooks and handouts and PowerPoint presentations.
Facilities and equipment may include access to simulated laboratories, tool, equipment, and instrumentation suitable for industry practices, computer labs with relevant software, PPE and other safety equipment, cleaning agents and all instruments and equipment required for performing basic tests, microscopic and aseptic techniques.
Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.
Semester 2, 2025
- Tuition fee: $6,402
- Resources fee: $500
- Materials fee: $225
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.
Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.
Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment.
There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is mostly delivered in a simulated laboratory setting but field trips to sampling sites & workplaces, analytical equipment, guest speakers and work experience link learning to industry
1 semester
To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 13 units. These 13 are comprised of 5 core units and 8 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.
Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.
- BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
- MSL913004 Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
- MSL922002 Record and present data
- MSL933009 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
- MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
- MSL914002 Prepare practical science classes and demonstrations
- MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
- MSL954005 Prepare mineral samples for analysis
- MSL973022 Conduct laboratory-based acceptance tests for construction materials
- MSL973025 Perform basic tests
- MSL973026 Prepare working solutions
- MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
- MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
The methods of assessment used in this course include:
• Observation – where an assessor will directly observe your performance of activities in a real or simulated workplace, role play or exercise, or a demonstration of practical skills. An observation checklist will be completed by your assessor.
• Written assessment – which can take several forms including case studies, projects, workbooks, presentations, reports, reflective tasks, self-evaluation, and research projects.
• Questioning – in the form of written question and answers, such as tests or online quizzes. It could also be spoken questions and answers.
• Portfolio – which is a collection of evidence of your skills. This could include collections of samples of your work, observation checklists, third-party reports, products with supporting documentation, historical evidence, training records, and journals, logbooks, or work diaries.
• Work samples – which are products or items that you produce during your practical activities.
• Third party feedback – which is information we gather from the people training or supervising you.
These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is provided in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use the matrix to ensure assessments are spread across the duration of the course rather than clustered together at times.
The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.
Learning resources may include access to training manuals and/or learners’ guides, Blackboard resources, quizzes and PowerPoints, hand-outs, simulations, and additional notes.
Facilities and equipment may include access to computer labs, fully equipped laboratories, specialised equipment such as analytical balances, autoclaves, auto-pipettes, biohazard cabinets, Bunsen Burners, microscopes, digital cameras, test kits, sampling equipment, thermometers, and disposable equipment.
Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.
Semester 2, 2025
- Tuition fee: $6,402
- Resources fee: $625
- Materials fee: $0
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.
Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.
Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment.
There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this course is mostly delivered in a simulated laboratory setting with organised field trips to sampling sites and workplaces.
1 semester
To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 13 units. These 13 are comprised of 5 core units and 8 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.
Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.
- BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
- MSL913004 Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
- MSL922002 Record and present data
- MSL933009 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
- MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
- ICTICT214 Operate application software packages
- MSL952003 Collect routine site samples
- MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
- MSL973015 Prepare culture media
- MSL973025 Perform basic tests
- MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
- MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
- TAEDEL311 Provide work skill instruction
The methods of assessment used in this course include written questioning assessments to demonstrate the student’s knowledge, practical demonstration and observation of skills including performing basic tests, recording and presenting data and structured assessment activities, such as portfolios and projects.
These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is provided in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use the matrix to ensure assessments are spread across the duration of the course rather than clustered together at particular times.
The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.
Learning resources may include access to Blackboard LMS, workbooks and handouts and PowerPoint presentations.
Facilities and equipment may include access to simulated laboratories, tool, equipment, and instrumentation suitable for industry practices, computer labs with relevant software, PPE and other safety equipment, cleaning agents and all instruments and equipment required for performing basic tests, microscopic and aseptic techniques.
Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.
Semester 1, 2026
- Tuition fee: $6,402
- Resources fee: $500
- Materials fee: $225
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.
Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.
Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment.
There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is mostly delivered in a simulated laboratory setting but field trips to sampling sites & workplaces, analytical equipment, guest speakers and work experience link learning to industry
1 semester
To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 13 units. These 13 are comprised of 5 core units and 8 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.
Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.
- BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
- MSL913004 Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
- MSL922002 Record and present data
- MSL933009 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
- MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
- MSL914002 Prepare practical science classes and demonstrations
- MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
- MSL954005 Prepare mineral samples for analysis
- MSL973022 Conduct laboratory-based acceptance tests for construction materials
- MSL973025 Perform basic tests
- MSL973026 Prepare working solutions
- MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
- MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
The methods of assessment used in this course include:
• Observation – where an assessor will directly observe your performance of activities in a real or simulated workplace, role play or exercise, or a demonstration of practical skills. An observation checklist will be completed by your assessor.
• Written assessment – which can take several forms including case studies, projects, workbooks, presentations, reports, reflective tasks, self-evaluation, and research projects.
• Questioning – in the form of written question and answers, such as tests or online quizzes. It could also be spoken questions and answers.
• Portfolio – which is a collection of evidence of your skills. This could include collections of samples of your work, observation checklists, third-party reports, products with supporting documentation, historical evidence, training records, and journals, logbooks, or work diaries.
• Work samples – which are products or items that you produce during your practical activities.
• Third party feedback – which is information we gather from the people training or supervising you.
These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is provided in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use the matrix to ensure assessments are spread across the duration of the course rather than clustered together at times.
The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.
Learning resources may include access to training manuals and/or learners’ guides, Blackboard resources, quizzes and PowerPoints, hand-outs, simulations, and additional notes.
Facilities and equipment may include access to computer labs, fully equipped laboratories, specialised equipment such as analytical balances, autoclaves, auto-pipettes, biohazard cabinets, Bunsen Burners, microscopes, digital cameras, test kits, sampling equipment, thermometers, and disposable equipment.
Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.
Semester 1, 2026
- Tuition fee: $6,402
- Resources fee: $625
- Materials fee: $0
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.
Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.
Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment.
There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this course is mostly delivered in a simulated laboratory setting with organised field trips to sampling sites and workplaces.
1 semester
To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 13 units. These 13 are comprised of 5 core units and 8 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.
Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.
- BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
- MSL913004 Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
- MSL922002 Record and present data
- MSL933009 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
- MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
- ICTICT214 Operate application software packages
- MSL952003 Collect routine site samples
- MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
- MSL973015 Prepare culture media
- MSL973025 Perform basic tests
- MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
- MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
- TAEDEL311 Provide work skill instruction
The methods of assessment used in this course include written questioning assessments to demonstrate the student’s knowledge, practical demonstration and observation of skills including performing basic tests, recording and presenting data and structured assessment activities, such as portfolios and projects.
These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is provided in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use the matrix to ensure assessments are spread across the duration of the course rather than clustered together at particular times.
The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.
Learning resources may include access to Blackboard LMS, workbooks and handouts and PowerPoint presentations.
Facilities and equipment may include access to simulated laboratories, tool, equipment, and instrumentation suitable for industry practices, computer labs with relevant software, PPE and other safety equipment, cleaning agents and all instruments and equipment required for performing basic tests, microscopic and aseptic techniques.
Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.
There may be further semester intakes available for enrolment. You can view any further intakes when you submit your online application(opens in a new tab).
For information about pathways from TAFE to university, view our Pathways to university page.
How to apply
Apply to study at TAFE in six steps:
- find a course;
- check entry requirements;
- submit an application;
- accept your offer and pay;
- apply for your student visa; and
- receive your visa and come to Australia for your studies.
Build your own course guide
Select the study areas, courses and topics you like. Get your custom guide by email!
Download study area guide(opens in a new tab)
Contact us(opens in a new tab)
TAFE International Western Australia (TIWA) is the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) provider, for the delivery of training to international students, enrolled in a TAFE course in Western Australia. This nationally recognised course is delivered by a Western Australian TAFE college on TIWA's behalf. TIWA retains responsibility for the quality of the training and assessment delivered by the TAFE colleges and for the issue of certification documentation to students.