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Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

CRICOS 112036A Course Code MSL40122

Entry IELTS 6.0 or equivalent
Duration
  • Full time
  • 1 Year(s)
Delivery
  • On Campus
Intakes
Fees
  • $18,440 Per Year
Campus
  • Moorabbin

This course is not available for International Students

Overview

The Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques offers comprehensive training in laboratory operations, including WHS, analytical instrumentation, aseptic techniques, chemistry, microscopy, and biological procedures. Delivered at Holmesglen’s Moorabbin campus in a state-of-the-art pathology and biotechnology facility, this course emphasises hands-on practical training with industry-standard equipment. Gain essential lab skills to confidently begin your career as a laboratory technician, prepared for roles in various scientific industries.

Career Opportunities

  • Laboratory Assistant – support testing, experiments, and data collection in various laboratory environments
  • Medical or Pathology Lab Assistant – prepare and process patient samples, assist with basic diagnostic testing
  • Environmental Lab Assistant – analyse soil, water, and air samples to support environmental monitoring and research
  • Food or Pharmaceutical Testing Technician – conduct quality control testing in food production or pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Research Assistant – assist with academic or private sector research projects, including sample preparation and documentation
  • Educational Lab Assistant – support science teaching staff in schools or tertiary institutions with lab setup and demonstrations
  • Industrial Process Assistant – monitor production processes and support laboratory testing in manufacturing industries
  • Biotechnology Lab Assistant – contribute to genetic research, bioprocessing, and laboratory-based innovation
  • Water Quality Analyst – test and assess water samples for safety, compliance, and environmental standards
  • Commercial Lab Technician – perform routine and specialised testing services for private laboratories and service providers

Pathway to further studies

  • MSL50122 Diploma of Laboratory Technology
  • Higher education programs in laboratory science, biotechnology, or applied science

Studying the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques at Holmesglen

At Holmesglen, you'll learn from experienced and supportive teaching staff, all with postgraduate qualifications across various science disciplines. Our teachers are dedicated to helping you succeed.<p>The course is delivered in Holmesglen’s state-of-the-art pathology and biotechnology education facility, where practical training is emphasised to ensure you gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment.<p>Our well-equipped labs and advanced instrumentation mirror what you’ll use in the industry, preparing you for a confident start in your laboratory career.<p>Holmesglen graduates are highly regarded in industries such as pathology, food, environmental science, education, and research.<p>Upon successful completion of the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques, you’ll have the option to enhance your skills through a non-compulsory work placement, supervised by industry professionals. Holmesglen supports students throughout this process, Students must fulfil immunisation requirements, including flu vaccines, covid-19 vaccines, and other immunisations. Additionally, they require a current police check and a Volunteer Working with Children's Check if they want to be placed.

Entry Requirements

1. Good passes at Year 12 or the overseas equivalent. <p>2. English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or equivalent. For equivalent English language tests see <a href="https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500#Eligibility">https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500#Eligibility</a>.<br> <br>3. Students must be at least 18 at the commencement of the course.<p><strong>Recommended skills: </strong><br>• Ability to follow instructions accurately<br>• Strong English communication for reporting and collaboration<br>• Attention to detail for laboratory testing<br>• Familiarity with digital technologies for online learning<br><strong>Digital readiness: </strong><br>• Access to a computer, laptop, or tablet with a headset is highly recommended for online activities via Holmesglen’s Brightspace LMS.<br><strong>Laboratory participation:<br>• No special physical requirements beyond standard lab activities<br>• Must handle equipment and samples safely and follow protocols

Recognition of prior learning

You may be able to reduce the number of units to be studied in your chosen course by measuring skills acquired through work, life experiences or qualifications obtained from formal studies or training. AQF qualifications and statements of attainment issued by another registered training organisation will be recognised by Holmesglen. Read more about Recognition of Prior Learning, Credits and Advanced Standing.

Course Structure

Timetable

This course is delivered full time over a 12-month period. Learners are required to attend campus four days per week—Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday—with a minimum of 22 hours of face-to-face learning each week. Training and assessment are scheduled across 34 weeks, with breaks aligned to the Victorian school term holidays.<p>The program is structured to support progressive skill development, beginning with foundational laboratory practices and advancing to specialised techniques and elective units. Practical learning is delivered in simulated laboratory environments, supported by online activities and access to Holmesglen’s learning management system (Brightspace).
Unit code Unit name
MSL944002 Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety
MSL934008 Maintain instruments and equipment
MSL924005 Process and interpret data
MSL934009 Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes
Unit code Unit name
MSL924006 Use laboratory application software
MSL974034 Perform biological procedures
MSL973028 Perform microscopic examination
MSL973027 Perform techniques that prevent cross-contamination
MSL974031 Prepare, standardise and use solutions
MSL904003 Perform standard calibrations
CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in health or community services
MSL914002 Prepare practical science classes and demonstrations
MSL954006 Relate anatomical and physiological features to laboratory samples
MSL974033 Perform food tests
MSL953005 Receive and prepare samples for testing
MSL974032 Perform chemical tests and procedures

Assessment

Assessments are designed to provide learners with opportunities to demonstrate they have attained the required skills and knowledge using a range of practically based activities and tasks, as required by recognised standards.

How to apply

Apply Via Agent

Holmesglen recommends international students apply through one of our accredited student recruitment agents. This will assist you in the preparation of all application documents and ensure that you are well counselled on the Australian Government's Genuine Student (GS) requirements for International students. Further information of the GS requirement is available at: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au.

To find out more, visit How to Apply for International Students.

If you have further questions about your application, please contact our International Centre:

T: 03 9564 1703

E: international.admissions@holmesglen.edu.au

Visit How to Apply for more information on the application process.

Recruitment

Holmesglen may engage third parties to recruit students on behalf of the institute. Third party recruiters receive a commission and this will not impact on your fees.

Find out more about your rights and obligations as a student and the services we provide at Holmesglen.

Outcomes

Qualification and Recognition

On completion, you will receive the MSL40122 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques).

Industry Connections

Fees

Tuition fees GST exempt Cost
International Fee $18,440 Per Year
Mandatory Non-Tuition Fees Cost
General Services Fee $80 Per Semester

The General Services Fee (GSF) at Holmesglen is a mandatory annual fee applicable to all students enrolled in Certificate I through Advanced Diploma courses. This fee supports various student services such as counselling, welfare support, and learning assistance provided by our dedicated student support and wellbeing teams. For more details on the GSF and its specific allocations, please visit the <a title=" General Services Fee page" href="/current-students/course-resources/fees-and-payments/General-Services-Fee.html">General Services Fee (GSF) page</a>.

Additional Course Cost

The indicative additional course costs for this course are $700. <br>This is for items including, but not limited to: <br>Unisex Lab Coat with Holmesglen logo, approx. $45.00* <br>Safety glasses, approximately . $6.75* <br>Pipette filler HHH Brand, approx. $27.00* <br>Slip-resistant shoes, approx. $138.60* <br>Immunisations $0-$500* (price will vary according to individual) <br>*Please note prices are an estimate only and subject to change

An additional administration fee may apply where the application is submitted directly to Holmesglen and not through a Holmesglen-approved education agent.

Tuition Fee Protection Service

The Tuition Protection Service (TPS) is an initiative of the Australian Government to assist international students whose education providers are unable to fully deliver their course of study for which tuition fees are paid. <a title="Tuition Protection Service" href="https://www.education.gov.au/tps" target="_blank">Read more about the TPS</a>

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