MSL40118 - Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

DurationThere are multiple durations. Please refer to Course Structure below.
Location
Mackay and Mixed Mode
Study modeMixed Mode
Total units15
Low-Fee course for eligible applicants.

Overview

Are you looking to extend your laboratory skills? Equip yourself with the skills and knowledge required to perform a range of laboratory techniques, and conduct tests and sampling applicable to a variety of industries by completing the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques.

This qualification reflects the role of workers who perform a range of laboratory techniques, including manual, semi-automated and fully automated, to collect and prepare samples in a laboratory. They conduct a wide range of basic, and limited range of specialist tests across a variety of industry sectors. Workers may be required to assist other personnel to solve technical problems and to adjust formulations and product mixes. They may also train them to collect samples and conduct basic tests reliably.

Workers have responsibility for their own outputs according to established procedures. Work is carried out according to established procedures often under the direction and supervision of laboratory or quality managers, or scientific/medical professionals. Work is normally subject to frequent progress and quality checks.

This course includes two one-week compulsory on-campus attendance (the CQU Mackay Ooralea Campus). Please see the More Details tab for further information.



This is a nationally recognised accredited course.

QUALITY EDUCATION, WHEREVER YOU ARE
Between our reputation for learning, teaching and research, our renowned online education offering, and our status as Australia’s largest regional university, rest assured you will get a world-class education when you choose CQUniversity.

A UNI THAT KNOWS CREDIBILITY IS KEY
In just 25 years, CQUniversity has achieved some amazing feats and emerged as one of Australia’s truly great universities. We have been ranked among the best in the world for our teaching and learning, and are internationally recognised for our focus on Social Innovation. Our graduates are some of the most sought-after in Australia, due to our reputation for work integrated learning and industry-aligned courses, and experience some of the nation’s best graduate outcomes in terms of full-time employment and starting salary. CQUni is also regarded as the nation’s most inclusive and engaged university, with our award-winning academic and research staff making a real impact on the communities and industries we serve.

A UNI THAT LEADS IN ONLINE EDUCATION
A pioneer in online study, CQUniversity has more than two decades of experience providing high quality online learning experiences across the country and even internationally. We work hard to deliver the latest techniques in online study, and have even planned our physical sites to provide more services to our widespread online study cohort.

A UNI THAT KNOWS CONVENIENCE COUNTS
CQUniversity is truly focused on our students’ needs, and that means responding to what, how and where they want to study. It is why we are now Australia’s largest regional university, with more than 20 metropolitan and regional locations across five states, delivering TAFE and university qualifications in on-campus, online and supported online modes to more than 30 000 students.

A UNI THAT KNOWS YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS
CQUniversity’s strong focus on student experience ensures that you are prepared and supported on your student journey. Support services include on-campus or online orientation to assist your transition into university life, course and career advice, financial support options, study support, ongoing assistance through the Student Mentor program, counselling services, support for students with disability or medical conditions, Indigenous student support and more.

Career Opportunities

This qualification offers entry-level technical training across a range of employment outcomes including laboratory technician, instrument operator. Depending on unit selections, industry sector specialisations include environmental monitoring, food testing, mineral assaying.

Structure & Availability

Standard Course Structure

Duration:

up to 18 months full-time

24 months part-time.


Core

Unit CodeUnit Name
MSL953003Receive and prepare samples for testing
MSL934006Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes
MSL934004Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment
MSL944002Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety
MSL924003Process and interpret data

Elective

Unit CodeUnit Name
MSL924004Use laboratory application software
MSL904002Perform standard calibrations
MSL934007Maintain and control stocks
MSL954004Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan
MSL974017Prepare, standardise and use solutions
MSL973016Perform aseptic techniques
MSL974019Perform chemical tests and procedures
MSL973019Perform microscopic examination
MSL973013Perform basic tests
MSMENV472Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices

Trainee Course Structure

Duration:

18 months full time

24 months part-time


Core

Unit CodeUnit Name
MSL924003Process and interpret data
MSL934004Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment
MSL934006Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes
MSL944002Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety
MSL953003Receive and prepare samples for testing

Elective

Unit CodeUnit Name
MSL943004Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety
MSL974022Undertake environmental field-based monitoring
MSL924004Use laboratory application software
MSL973019Perform microscopic examination
MSL954004Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan
MSL974017Prepare, standardise and use solutions
MSL973016Perform aseptic techniques
MSL974019Perform chemical tests and procedures
MSL904002Perform standard calibrations
MSL934007Maintain and control stocks
MSL973013Perform basic tests
MSMENV472Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices
MSMENV272Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices

Standard Course Structure

IntakeLocations
February, 2023Mixed Mode, Mackay
July, 2023Mixed Mode, Mackay
Standard Course Structure
Mackay Cohort 2 July 2022 commencements only
LocationMackay Ooralea
RoomMKY 03/G.03-2
Start Date12/04/2023
End Date20/04/2023
Start Time9:00 AM
End Time5:00 PM
CompulsoryYes

The practical week is designed for you to complete the practical components of all the units in the course. 

Requirements for your attendance at the practical week:

  1. You MUST enrol into all of the course units prior to attendance at the residential school
  2. You MUST read your unit's learning guide, practical manual, practical book before your practical day

What do you need to bring with you?

  1. Your PPE such as lab coat, safety glasses. You can purchase those items at CQU Bookshop online
  2. You must wear fully enclosed shoes in the laboratory at all times. Please see examples in the 'More details' page of this handbook. 
  3. Your own PC/Laptop or a digital device (e.g. Ipad)
  4. A calculator 
  5. Ensure you have access to the relevant learning materials e.g. Laboratory manual, practical assessments, observation check sheets) with you. Further details as to what learning materials you will need will be available in the Assessment section of Moodle for each unit.
  6. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure you bring a fine tip permanent marker to write on glassware during your practical class

Mackay Cohort 1 February 2023 commencements only
LocationMackay Ooralea
Room MKY 03/G.03-2
Start Date31/10/2023
End Date08/11/2023
Start Time9:00 AM
End Time5:00 PM
CompulsoryYes

The practical week is designed for you to complete the practical components of all the units in the course. 

Requirements for your attendance at the practical week:

  1. You MUST enrol into all of the course units prior to attendance at the residential school
  2. You MUST read your unit's learning guide, practical manual, practical book before your practical day

What do you need to bring with you?

  1. Your PPE such as lab coat, safety glasses. You can purchase those items at CQU Bookshop online
  2. You must wear fully enclosed shoes in the laboratory at all times. Please see examples in the 'More details' page of this handbook. 
  3. Your own PC/Laptop or a digital device (e.g. Ipad)
  4. A calculator 
  5. Ensure you have access to the relevant learning materials e.g. Laboratory manual, practical assessments, observation check sheets) with you. Further details as to what learning materials you will need will be available in the Assessment section of Moodle for each unit.
  6. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure you bring a fine tip permanent marker to write on glassware during your practical class

Requirements

There are no entry requirements for MSL40118 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques. It is strongly advised that students not currently working in industry complete MSL30118 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills prior to enrolling into MSL40118.

Students are required to have completed the literacy and numeracy assessment pre-enrolment in the form of the Basic Key Skills Builder online literacy and numeracy assessment or to have completed an equal or higher level course.

Fees & Scholarships

2023 Indicative Fees

Fee TypeFees
Fee for service$6,460
Fee for service per unit$380
TAFE Priority Skills Fund/Training Program fee per unit$23.80
Co-Contribution Fee$1,870
Co-Contribution Concessional Fee$510
Co-Contribution Fee per unit$110
Co-Contribution Concessional Fee per unit$30

Queensland Government subsidies are available for eligible applicants to greatly reduce the cost of apprentice and trainee training.

User Choice funding provides a contribution that reduces the cost of training. Eligible apprentices and trainees will be charged $1.60 per nominal hour. Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Free apprenticeships for under 25s will cover the cost of training for employers who commence an eligible new apprentice or trainee, or already have an existing apprentice or trainee aged under 25. Find out more.

For further information please refer to the VET student fees price lists, eligibility criteria applies for subsidised funding. If you are unsure, please call us on 13 27 86.

At CQUniversity, we believe higher education should be for everyone. No matter your situation, we know that everyone needs a helping hand from time to time, and we are proud to offer a wide range of scholarships, bursaries and stipends.
Our scholarships could help you pay for things like relocation, living on campus, laptops and technology, childcare, study and living expenses, travel and more. 

How to apply

Step 1: Get a Unique Student Identifier (USI)

Visit usi.gov.au to create a USI or find an existing one.

Step 2: Prepare your eligibility documentation

So that we can assess your application and eligibility for Government funding options, you’ll need to upload documentation as part of your application. You will need to provide confirmation of identity with the following documentation: 

  • Queensland Residency and Date of Birth. (e.g. Queensland Driver’s License photo must be of the back and front of the license)
  • Australian or New Zealand citizenship or Australian permanent residency (e.g. Medicare Card or Birth Certificate)

For further information on eligible documentation, visit Apply for TAFE Certificates and Diplomas.

To fast-track your application, make sure you provide a clear photo showing all the information and upload it with your application.

Step 3: Apply Online

Our easy-to-use online application system will guide you through the process of applying for a TAFE course. If you need help along the way, call us on 13 27 86.

Click on the Apply button below to start your application.