Prepare for Diploma level and university study or entry into the Australian Defence Force. Recognised by educators and employers as an alternative pathway to Year 12, develop the academic and learning skills needed for your next level of study.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Write non-academic and academic texts
Plan, research, draft and edit assignments
Present your ideas
Manage your time in an academic environment
Apply learning strategies
Collaborate with peers and professionals
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally recognised qualification at a Certificate IV level
A Tertiary Entrance Score (TES)
A year 12 equivalent qualification
Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
Undertake literacy and numeracy screening and achieve ACSF Level 3 or above
Participate in an interview with a teacher to make sure this is the right course for you
Please check your preferred campus for any campus-specific entry requirements
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
The ability to learn independently
The resources to research topics
Sound technology skills
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.
Our graduates go onto roles like: admission to university by getting a Tertiary Entrance Score (TES) , entry to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) , pursuing further study at Diploma level or above in the Vocational Education and Training sector or in science, technology, engineering and maths vocational areas and pursuing careers requiring a year 12 or equivalent qualification
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation does not have any post-graduate courses.
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation does not have any related courses.
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.
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 10 units of competency, including 3 core and 7 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.
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
Smarthinking - online access to a tutor
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
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.