Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Program Overview

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Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Course Overview

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.

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, you can upgrade your qualification by successfully completing this course, making you 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.

Core Units

• BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
• MSL Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
• MSL Record and present data
• MSL Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
• MSL Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety

Elective Units

• MSL Perform standard calibrations
• MSL Collect routine site samples
• MSL Receive and prepare samples for testing
• MSL Prepare culture media
• MSL Perform basic tests
• MSL Prepare working solutions
• MSL Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
• MSL Perform microscopic examination
• MSL Perform histological procedures
• MSMENV272 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices

Ways to Study

• On campus
• TAFE at School
• Apprenticeships or traineeships
• International

Study Locations

• Greater Brisbane

Campus Information

South Bank

• On campus with some online
• Start date: 27 Jan 2026
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time up to 3 days per week
• What you'll pay:
  • Concession: $705
  • Subsidised: $1,250
  • Full fee: $5,580

South Bank

• On Campus
• Start date: 14 Jul 2025
• Duration: 2 terms
• Workload: Part time 1 day per week
• What you'll pay:
  • TAFE at School Full Fee: $2,605

South Bank

• On campus with some online
• Start date: 14 Jul 2025
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time up to 3 days per week
• What you'll pay:
  • International: $6,760

South Bank

• On campus with some online
• Start date: 27 Jan 2026
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time up to 3 days per week
• What you'll pay:
  • International: $6,760

Studying on Campus

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.

TAFE at School

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.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

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.

International Students

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.

Payment Options

• Payment plan
• Upfront payment
• International student payment

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

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: Although there are no formal entry requirements for this course, TAFE Queensland requires successful completion of MSL20122 Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement prior to enrolment.
• 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.
• 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
  • 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.

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.

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.

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.

How to Apply

• Direct application
• For International students: International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents.

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.