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National code: MSL40118

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

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Overview About this course

Gain the skills to become a laboratory assistant or laboratory technician in a wide range of fields from biological to polymer testing. Learn fundamental laboratory procedures in state-of-the-art facilities while you solve new problems and test different theories every day.

This course is superseded. You can still enrol in this course, and you will be contacted if you need to transition into the next version when it is available.

Outcomes What you'll gain

Learning outcomes

Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:

  • Collect and prepare samples

  • Work safely in a laboratory

  • Communicate efficiently in a laboratory

  • Process and interpret data

  • Maintain and prepare laboratory stock

Course outcomes

Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.

  • A nationally accredited qualification at a Certificate IV level

  • Experience working in an industry-standard laboratory

  • Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities

Suitability Is this course right for you?

Entry requirements

Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol

  • There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.

  • This course is offered as a traineeship. Enquire today to check the eligibility requirements.

Entry recommendations

To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:

  • Good spoken and written skills

  • Some computer knowledge

  • The ability to complete maths calculations

TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.

Pathways Future career and study options

Career pathways

Our graduates go onto roles like: biological/ environmental/ construction materials testing technical assistant, environmental field assistant (sample testing), laboratory assistant in water quality, food testing or polymer testing and school laboratory technician.

Study pathways

Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:

Previous study 1 Course

Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.

Further study 3 Courses

Advance your skills to take your career to the next level

Related study 1 Course

Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.

Your experience counts

At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.

Units Units taught in this course

Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 15 Units of competency, including 5 core and 10 speciality units.

Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.

  • Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment MSL934004

  • Receive and prepare samples for testing MSL953003

  • Process and interpret data MSL924003

  • Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes MSL934006

TAFE NSW services Facilities and support

TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.

  • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service

  • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support

  • TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)

  • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service

  • TAFE NSW Libraries

  • Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential

  • Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home

  • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

  • Student associations – get social with our student community

Delivery options Find a location to enrol

On campus, online and blended study environments; at TAFE NSW your learning works with your lifestyle. Heart your favourites, compare courses and discover what works for you.