VET Studies
VET Studies

Laboratory Skills

Overview

VET in schools multiplies opportunities for students. They enable students to complete a nationally recognised vocational qualification as well as contribute towards their VCE or VCAL Certificate. Classroom learning is combined with structured hands-on training and practice in industry. The Certificate III in Laboratory Skills give students the opportunity to enhance their school-based learning with applied skills through laboratory and simulated workplace learning facilities. This program prepares students for a range of sciences: biotechnology, nano-technology, pathology, and forensic science. Certificate III in Laboratory skills is designed to provide access to a range of career paths as well as assist with higher level tertiary technical based learning.

Course Code and Course Title

  • MSL30109 – Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Delivery

  • Venue: The Peninsula School
  • Time: Wednesday – 1.30pm – 5.30pm

Structured Workplace Learning

The program includes an invaluable mandatory workplace learning program arranged for students by experienced workplace coordinators.

Contribution to the VCE and VCAL

On completion of the program students are eligible for five credits towards their VCE or VCAL certificate, three at units 1 and 2 level and a 3 and 4 sequence.  Students who successfully complete the year 12 Unit 3-4 sequence will be eligible for a study score which contributes directly towards their ATAR. This program will also satisfy the learning outcomes for the VCAL Industry Specific and the Work Related Skills strand.

Special Notes

It is preferred that students be enrolled in VCE Chemistry to develop underpinning skills and knowledge. VCE Biology is an advantage but an extra assignment can be arranged for students to gain the underpinning skills and knowledge.

Special Requirements

  • Students are provided with laboratory coat, gown, safety glasses on loan as required.
  • Students are required to purchase a laboratory duplicate log record book and permanent marker pen.
  • Reference material will be provided in written or electronic format to support student learning.
  • All equipment and laboratory materials are provided.

Units of Competency

Units delivered over 2 years may include

Code

Unit of Competency Name
MSL913001A Communicate with other people
MSL922001A Record and present data
MSL943002A Participate in laboratory/field workplace safety
MSL913002A Plan and conduct laboratory/field work
MSL933001A Maintain the laboratory fit for purpose
MSL953001A Receive and prepare samples for testing
MSL973001A Perform basic tests
MSAENV272A Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
MSL933002A Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives
MSL973004A Perform aseptic techniques
MSL973002A Prepare working solutions
MSL973007A Perform microscopic examination
MSL974003A Capture and manage scientific images

Pathways

Training and Employment Outcomes

The skills acquired in the Certificate III may translate to both immediate employment in laboratory technology, process manufacturing and other scientific occupations as well as provide an excellent base of applied scientific skills for further studies at TAFE or University. Successful students may go on to gain further credits in Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques, or a Diploma in Laboratory Technology. The program provides access to a range of career opportunities including Analytical Laboratory Technician, Pathology Technician, School or Industry based Technician.

TAFE

  • Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
  • Certificate IV in Science
  • Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Specialising in Biological and Chemical Testing, Environmental Monitoring)
  • Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Specialising in Biological Testing, Manufacturing and Forensic Chemistry)

University Options

  • Bachelor of Science