VET qualifications: your guide to career-focused education
Certificate I: The foundation of workplace skills
A Certificate I provides introductory skills for entry-level roles. It suits individuals new to formal training or those exploring career options.
Who is it for?
- Individuals looking to gain basic workplace skills.
- Students wanting hands-on, entry-level experience.
- Those unsure of their career path and exploring options.
| Course | Career Outcomes | Further Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate I in Hospitality | Kitchen hand, café assistant | Certificate II in Hospitality |
| Certificate I in Construction | Labourer, trade assistant | Certificate II in Construction Pathways |
Certificate II: Preparing for the workforce
A Certificate II builds foundational skills for specific industries, increasing employability and workplace readiness.
Who is it for?
- School leavers or job seekers wanting practical experience.
- Those needing an entry-level qualification for an industry.
- Students considering an apprenticeship or traineeship.
| Course | Career Outcomes | Further Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate II in Retail Services | Sales assistant, retail team member | Certificate III in Retail |
| Certificate II in Automotive Servicing | Vehicle service assistant | Certificate III in Automotive Technology |
Certificate III: Skilled trades and technical jobs
A Certificate III offers industry-specific skills and is often required for skilled trades or technical jobs.
Who is it for?
- Those wanting a skilled trade qualification.
- Individuals seeking entry to mid-level jobs.
- Students looking to progress to a Certificate IV or Diploma.
| Course | Career Outcomes | Further Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Carpentry | Carpenter, construction worker | Certificate IV in Building and Construction |
| Certificate III in Individual Support | Aged care worker, disability support worker | Certificate IV in Disability |
Certificate IV: Advanced technical and supervisory skills
A Certificate IV provides specialised skills for higher-level trades or supervisory roles.
Who is it for?
- Workers seeking career progression.
- Individuals wanting technical or supervisory roles.
- Students planning to move into a Diploma.
| Course | Career Outcomes | Further Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate IV in Building and Construction | Site supervisor, project manager | Diploma of Building and Construction |
| Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping | Bookkeeper, payroll officer | Diploma of Accounting |
Diploma: Professional and managerial skills
A Diploma prepares students for leadership roles, often leading to management positions or further study.
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking leadership or specialist roles.
- Workers wanting to move into management.
- Those considering higher education pathways.
| Course | Career Outcomes | Further Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Nursing | Enrolled nurse | Bachelor of Nursing |
| Diploma of Hospitality Management | Restaurant manager, hotel supervisor | Advanced Diploma of Hospitality |
Advanced Diploma: Specialist expertise and leadership
An Advanced Diploma provides high-level knowledge and skills for executive or specialist roles.
Who is it for?
- Experienced professionals advancing into executive or specialist roles.
- Workers wanting a high-level vocational qualification.
- Students progressing towards university degrees.
| Course | Career Outcomes | Further Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design | Civil construction supervisor | Bachelor of Engineering |
| Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management | Senior manager, executive officer | MBA (Master of Business Administration) |
Final thoughts
VET qualifications offer a flexible and practical pathway into various careers, catering to different learning levels and industries. Whether you’re starting with a Certificate I or aiming for an Advanced Diploma, VET provides recognised training that leads directly to employment or further education.