Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) at TAFE NSW

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy that ensures education and training standards are the same across the country. This means that when you get a certificate or degree from TAFE NSW, it is recognised anywhere in Australia.

The AQF has 10 levels, from certificates at level 1, to doctoral degrees at level 10.

At TAFE NSW, our courses go from AQF level 1 to level 7 and are Nationally Recognised Training (NRT).

TAFE NSW has a course for everyone. Whether you want a short course or a degree, we have something to suit your goals.

Explore the different types of courses we offer to find what’s right for you:

• Courses at school and for school leavers

• Online courses

• Apprenticeships and traineeships

• Subsidised courses

• Fee-free courses

• Undergraduate certificates (short courses, with 4 subjects)

• Degrees

• Microcredentials (short degree-level courses)

• Microskills (continuing professional development online).

You can start learning for your job training while still in school by doing a TAFE Vocational Education and Training (TVET) course. These courses are part of your Higher School Certificate (HSC) and help you get qualified, ready for work.

Our courses range from Certificate I to Certificate IV (AQF levels 1–4) and are nationally recognised. The course level depends on the subject area and how advanced the knowledge is that you need in order to graduate.

All courses are designed to develop skills that will help you find a job in your chosen field.

They are offered:

• full-time

• part-time

• online

• in person

• in a delivery combination.

You don’t always need to start with a certificate I or certificate II, entry-level course. You may be able to commence your study at a higher level if you meet the entry requirements.

A Statement of Attainment (SOA) is a short course consisting of one or more study units that count towards a full qualification if you decide to continue your study at a certificate level. They are nationally recognised courses that can help you upskill your current qualification, or prepare you for further study.

Undergraduate certificates are higher education courses at AQF levels 5, 6 or 7. They are short courses that are made up of only four specific subjects.

These courses are often designed to provide you with professional skills and knowledge to move into new employment.

If you continue your studies, you’ll get recognition for the certificate subjects you have successfully completed.

Our diplomas and advanced diplomas help prepare you for careers that require a range of complex technical skills. Our degree courses help you prepare for professional careers.

These courses sit at different AQF levels:

• AQF level 5 for diplomas

• AQF level 6 for advanced diplomas

• AQF level 7 for degrees

Diplomas usually take about a year to complete, while degrees take 2–4 years of full-time study. If you study these courses part-time, they will take longer to complete.

If you need more information or help, our customer service team is ready to answer your questions.