Course Overview

About This Course

The MSL40122 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques prepares students for careers as laboratory technicians in pathology, biotechnology, food testing, environmental science, education and research laboratories. This nationally recognised qualification combines practical laboratory training with industry-focused learning to develop skills in laboratory operations, sample preparation, chemical and biological testing, microscopy, data analysis, laboratory documentation and quality control. Students train using industry-standard laboratory equipment in Holmesglen's specialised pathology and biotechnology laboratories while learning safe laboratory practices from experienced science educators, graduating with the practical skills, technical knowledge and confidence to work in laboratory settings or continue studies in laboratory science and related fields.

At Holmesglen, students learn from experienced and supportive teaching staff with postgraduate qualifications across various science disciplines. The course is delivered full-time over a 12-month period, with learners attending campus four days per week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday) for a minimum of 22 hours of face-to-face learning, across 34 weeks of training and assessment aligned with Victorian school term holidays. Upon successful completion, students have the option to undertake a non-compulsory work placement supervised by industry professionals, for which they must meet immunisation, police check and Working with Children Check requirements.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

585 Waverly Rd, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150

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Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Tuition Fee

$17,105

Duration

Full Time, 1 Year

Intakes

February

Study Mode

Full Time

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic Students:

Learners must be 18 years of age at course commencement.
All learners must complete an online Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment and participate in a Pre-Training Review (PTR) interview covering career goals, course requirements, recognition of prior learning, and any learning support needs.
Recommended skills include the ability to follow instructions accurately, strong English communication, attention to detail for laboratory testing, and familiarity with digital technologies; access to a computer or tablet with a headset is highly recommended for Holmesglen's Brightspace LMS.
No special physical requirements apply beyond standard lab activities.
An optional industry placement requires a National Police Records Check, a Volunteer Working with Children Check and industry-required vaccinations, but these are not required for the qualification itself.

International Students:

Applicants need good passes at Year 12 or the overseas equivalent.
English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0.
Must be at least 18 years of age at course commencement.
Recommended skills include the ability to follow instructions accurately, strong English communication for reporting and collaboration, attention to detail for laboratory testing, and familiarity with digital technologies for online learning; access to a computer, laptop or tablet with a headset is highly recommended for Holmesglen's Brightspace LMS.
No special physical requirements apply beyond standard laboratory activities, though students must handle equipment and samples safely and follow protocols.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

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

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

ASQA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units16 units

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

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

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Holmesglen Institute of TAFE?

Holmesglen is a leading Australian provider of vocational and higher education and one of the largest government-owned TAFEs in the state of Victoria, with 40 years of experience and more than 140,000 graduates.

Does Holmesglen hold open days where I can learn more about the Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques?

Yes, Holmesglen holds Open Days where prospective students can hear from teachers, explore campuses, and get a feel for the study journey. You can book an open day through the Holmesglen website.

How can I contact Holmesglen for more information about this course?

You can reach out to Holmesglen over the phone or send them an email using the contact details available on their website.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $47,000 to $60,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $60,000 to $78,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $78,000 to $97,000 per year

Career Paths

Laboratory TechnicianTechnical AssistantLaboratory AssistantInstrument OperatorPathology Assistant

Key Skills

Collecting, labelling and preparing biological and chemical samples for laboratory analysisPerforming manual, semi-automated and fully automated laboratory tests and proceduresConducting microbiological tests including aseptic techniques and microbial culturePerforming microscopic examination of cells, tissues and micro-organismsCalibrating, operating and maintaining laboratory instruments and equipment

Full Course Overview

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