To gain entrance into this Diploma qualification you need to have: 

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques or equivalent
OR
a Certificate IV or higher-level qualification in a relevant science discipline*
OR
demonstrated equivalent skills and knowledge in a relevant science discipline*. 

Please note the following units in this course have specific mandatory pre-requisites which all students must have successfully completed before commencing study:

MSL975062 - Perform microbiological tests , pre-requisite units:

• MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
• MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination

MSL975063 - Perform haematological tests, pre-requisite unit:

• MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination

MSL925006 Analyse data and report results, pre-requisite unit:

• MSL924005 Process and Interpret data

MSL975069 Apply routine spectrometric techniques,
MSL975066 – Apply routine chromatographic techniques pre-requisite unit:

• MSL974019 Perform chemical tests and procedures

MSL975071 Perform food analysis, pre-requisite unit:

• MSL974033 Perform food tests

*If you do not have a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques, this Diploma qualification may take 3 semesters to complete.

Attendance in class

This course is equivalent to 4-5 days per week when studied across two semesters.

At-home study

As well as the in-class component, you will need to complete approximately 2 hours of additional study each week per unit outside of class hours, including private study, assignment preparation, and research.

You will need to have the basic technical requirements for at-home study. If you don’t have access to a computer and WiFi at home, we recommend using our library computers during library hours. Office 365 is provided to enrolled students.

Work placement

Not a requirement of this course. 

ICT requirements 

Students must bring a laptop or tablet with keyboard (not a phone) capable of accessing Wi-Fi and using browser-based office applications (Office 365 is supplied to all students).

What you need for your first day of class

On your first day you should bring your SM TAFE confirmation enrolment receipt, your student ID, stationery (pen, pencil, exercise book, eraser, ruler, calculator, highlighter, 2 ring binder/lever-arch file, USB storage device and a clipboard for field work).

Uniform requirements

• Lab coat
• Australian eye protection
• Enclosed footwear (mandatory within all classrooms/Laboratory rooms)

Detailed specifics will be advised by your course lecturer at orientation.