Previous Version Version Effective: 10th of February, 2021
Version Effective: 10th of February, 2021
Previous Version

MSL40118 - Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Course Details

Course Summary

This qualification reflects the role of workers who perform a range of laboratory techniques, including manual, semi-automated and fully automated, to collect and prepare samples in a laboratory. They conduct a wide range of basic, and limited range of specialist tests across a variety of industry sectors. Workers may be required to assist other personnel to solve technical problems and to adjust formulations and product mixes. They may also train them to collect samples and conduct basic tests reliably.

Workers have responsibility for their own outputs according to established procedures. Work is carried out according to established procedures often under the direction and supervision of laboratory or quality managers, or scientific/medical professionals. Work is normally subject to frequent progress and quality checks.

This course includes two one-week compulsory on-campus attendance (the CQU Mackay Ooralea Campus). Please see the More Details tab for further information.

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements for MSL40118 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques. It is strongly advised that students not currently working in industry complete MSL30118 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills prior to enrolling into MSL40118.

Students are required to have completed the literacy and numeracy assessment pre-enrolment in the form of the Basic Key Skills Builder online literacy and numeracy assessment or to have completed an equal or higher level course.

Course Details

Course Type Qualification
Student Availability
  • Domestic
Fees
Full Fee $6,460.00 (2023)
Subsidised Full Fee $1,870.00 (2023)
Subsidised Concession Fee $510.00 (2023)
Fee for service per unit $380.00 (2023)
Subsidised full fee per unit $110.00 (2023)
TAFE Priority Training Program fee per unit $23.80 (2023)
For detailed information on Course Fees, visit www.cqu.edu.au/fees
Application Mode
  • Direct To University
How to Apply Please Enquire or Apply Now
Study Area
  • Science and Environment
Skill Area
  • Laboratory Technology
AQF Level Level 4: Certificate IV

Admission Codes

Domestic Students
Tertiary Admission Centre Codes (TAC) Codes 		Not Applicable
International Students
CRICOS Codes 		Not Applicable

Student Outcomes, Career Opportunities and Occupations

This qualification offers entry-level technical training across a range of employment outcomes including laboratory technician, instrument operator. Depending on unit selections, industry sector specialisations include environmental monitoring, food testing, mineral assaying.

Course Structures

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete 5 core units
  2. Complete 10 elective units

Study Mode Definitions

  • Online: Online courses provide the flexibility to study without normally requiring a student to visit a campus. Course content is studied through a number of means including the use of online discussion forums, electronic library resources, by contacting lecturers and teachers, and receiving study materials online/electronically. Work integrated learning, including placements, may be included in some courses.
  • On-campus: Students studying in on-campus mode typically are expected to attend and participate in regular, structured on-campus teaching and learning activities throughout the University’s academic term. These activities may include lectures, tutorials, workshops and practice, online or other activities and normally will be timetabled at a CQUniversity campus or approved delivery site.
  • Mixed Mode: Students studying in mixed mode will participate in a combination of online learning activities in addition to site-specific learning activities, which may include residential schools, co-op placements and/or work-integrated learning as a compulsory requirement of a unit. The additional site-specific learning activities are what differentiates a mixed-mode unit from an online unit.

*All study modes may include Vocational placement and/or work integrated learning.

Select a course structure below to view the delivery details, including the different study modes offered for each structure.

Please select a course structure from the options below:
Standard Course Structure

up to 18 months full-time

24 months part-time.

  • Mixed Mode
Core
All Core units must be completed.
MSL924003 Process and interpret data More Information Training.gov Details
MSL944002 Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety More Information Training.gov Details
MSL934004 Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment More Information Training.gov Details
MSL934006 Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes More Information Training.gov Details
MSL953003 Receive and prepare samples for testing More Information Training.gov Details
Elective

Complete each Elective unit from the list below.

Elective units have no specific enrolment order but have to be aligned with the unit's availability. Please see the More Details tab for a list of units and the months they are available.

Units MSL973016 and MSL973019 must be enrolled at the same time.

MSMENV472 Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices More Information Training.gov Details
MSL973013 Perform basic tests More Information Training.gov Details
MSL973019 Perform microscopic examination More Information Training.gov Details
MSL974019 Perform chemical tests and procedures More Information Training.gov Details
MSL973016 Perform aseptic techniques More Information Training.gov Details
MSL974017 Prepare, standardise and use solutions More Information Training.gov Details
MSL954004 Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan More Information Training.gov Details
MSL934007 Maintain and control stocks More Information Training.gov Details
MSL904002 Perform standard calibrations More Information Training.gov Details
MSL924004 Use laboratory application software More Information Training.gov Details

Unit Sequence

Please refer to the VET Course Planners for the recommended study sequence of this course. Please enrol in your units as per those instructions.

Trainee Course Structure

18 months full time

24 months part-time

  • Mixed Mode
Core

All Core units must be completed.

MSL953003 Receive and prepare samples for testing More Information Training.gov Details
MSL944002 Maintain laboratory or field workplace safety More Information Training.gov Details
MSL934006 Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes More Information Training.gov Details
MSL934004 Maintain and calibrate instruments and equipment More Information Training.gov Details
MSL924003 Process and interpret data More Information Training.gov Details
Elective

Complete 10 elective units from the list below.

Elective units have no specific enrolment order but have to be aligned with the unit's availability. Please see the More Details tab for a list of units and the months they are available.

Units MSL973016 and MSL973019 must be enrolled at the same time.

MSMENV272 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices More Information Training.gov Details
MSMENV472 Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices More Information Training.gov Details
MSL973013 Perform basic tests More Information Training.gov Details
MSL934007 Maintain and control stocks More Information Training.gov Details
MSL904002 Perform standard calibrations More Information Training.gov Details
MSL974019 Perform chemical tests and procedures More Information Training.gov Details
MSL973016 Perform aseptic techniques More Information Training.gov Details
MSL974017 Prepare, standardise and use solutions More Information Training.gov Details
MSL954004 Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan More Information Training.gov Details
MSL973019 Perform microscopic examination More Information Training.gov Details
MSL924004 Use laboratory application software More Information Training.gov Details
MSL974022 Undertake environmental field-based monitoring More Information Training.gov Details
MSL943004 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety More Information Training.gov Details

Unit Sequence

Please refer to the VET Course Planners for the recommended study sequence of this course. Please enrol in your units as per those instructions.

Course Assessment Information

RPL - Students who have previous informal and formal learning need to advise their trainer/assessor prior to enrolment. If the student wishes to apply for an RPL they need to apply to the RPL Centre.
Credit transfer - If credit for relevant formal qualifications is sought, then the process will be actioned after the student has enrolled in at least one unit of competency as directed by the relevant trainer/assessor. The Trainer/Assessor will work with the student on their credit transfer application, and provide advice and support as necessary.
Assessment Types
Written/Electronic Assessment
Practical Task
Project
Other
RPL
Third Party Verification
Course Learning Outcomes
Where and when can I start?
Please view the more details information for any additional information related to this course.

2023 Residential Schools/Workshops

Standard Course Structure

This course includes compulsory site-specific attendance at residential schools and/or workshops. Select your preferred location for further details.
Mackay Ooralea
Mackay Cohort 2 July 2022 commencements only
Location Mackay Ooralea, MKY 03/G.03-2
Start Date 12/04/2023
End Date 20/04/2023
Start Time 9:00 AM
End Time 5:00 PM
Compulsory Yes
Additional Information

The practical week is designed for you to complete the practical components of all the units in the course. 

Requirements for your attendance at the practical week:

  1. You MUST enrol into all of the course units prior to attendance at the residential school
  2. You MUST read your unit's learning guide, practical manual, practical book before your practical day

What do you need to bring with you?

  1. Your PPE such as lab coat, safety glasses. You can purchase those items at CQU Bookshop online
  2. You must wear fully enclosed shoes in the laboratory at all times. Please see examples in the 'More details' page of this handbook. 
  3. Your own PC/Laptop or a digital device (e.g. Ipad)
  4. A calculator 
  5. Ensure you have access to the relevant learning materials e.g. Laboratory manual, practical assessments, observation check sheets) with you. Further details as to what learning materials you will need will be available in the Assessment section of Moodle for each unit.
  6. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure you bring a fine tip permanent marker to write on glassware during your practical class

Mackay Cohort 1 February 2023 commencements only
Location Mackay Ooralea, MKY 03/G.03-2
Start Date 31/10/2023
End Date 08/11/2023
Start Time 9:00 AM
End Time 5:00 PM
Compulsory Yes
Additional Information

The practical week is designed for you to complete the practical components of all the units in the course. 

Requirements for your attendance at the practical week:

  1. You MUST enrol into all of the course units prior to attendance at the residential school
  2. You MUST read your unit's learning guide, practical manual, practical book before your practical day

What do you need to bring with you?

  1. Your PPE such as lab coat, safety glasses. You can purchase those items at CQU Bookshop online
  2. You must wear fully enclosed shoes in the laboratory at all times. Please see examples in the 'More details' page of this handbook. 
  3. Your own PC/Laptop or a digital device (e.g. Ipad)
  4. A calculator 
  5. Ensure you have access to the relevant learning materials e.g. Laboratory manual, practical assessments, observation check sheets) with you. Further details as to what learning materials you will need will be available in the Assessment section of Moodle for each unit.
  6. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure you bring a fine tip permanent marker to write on glassware during your practical class

Domestic 2019 Availabilities

Standard Course Structure

Mixed Mode
Mixed Mode includes a combination of online learning activities and compulsory site-specific attendance at residential schools and/or workshops.
March: Part Time
July: Part Time

Trainee Course Structure

There are currently no intakes scheduled for this course structure.

Domestic 2020 Availabilities

Standard Course Structure

Mixed Mode
Mixed Mode includes a combination of online learning activities and compulsory site-specific attendance at residential schools and/or workshops.
February: Full Time/Part Time
July: Full Time/Part Time

Trainee Course Structure

There are currently no intakes scheduled for this course structure.

Domestic 2021 Availabilities

Standard Course Structure

Mixed Mode
Mixed Mode includes a combination of online learning activities and compulsory site-specific attendance at residential schools and/or workshops.
February: Full Time/Part Time
July: Full Time/Part Time

Trainee Course Structure

There are currently no intakes scheduled for this course structure.

Domestic 2022 Availabilities

Standard Course Structure

Mixed Mode
Mixed Mode includes a combination of online learning activities and compulsory site-specific attendance at residential schools and/or workshops.
February: Full Time/Part Time
July: Full Time/Part Time

Trainee Course Structure

There are currently no intakes scheduled for this course structure.

Domestic 2023 Availabilities

Standard Course Structure

Mixed Mode
Mixed Mode includes a combination of online learning activities and compulsory site-specific attendance at residential schools and/or workshops.
February: Part Time/Full Time
July: Part Time/Full Time

Trainee Course Structure

There are currently no intakes scheduled for this course structure.
For individual class days and times for each intake please check the TAFE Timetable located here
The availabilities shown above are for the current and future years. To view any historic availabilities please press "Show Historic Availabilities" below:

Show Historic Availabilities
More Details

More Details

Compulsory Attendance - Residential Schools

Attending the practical Residential Schools at a simulated laboratory at CQUniversity Mackay Ooralea campus is MANDATORY for all students in the course. The practical week is designed for you to complete the practical components of all the units in the course.

Mackay Ooralea Campus - Cohort 2 July 2022 commencements only

Start date: 12/04/2023  End date: 20/04/2023

9am – 5pm

Mackay Ooralea Campus - Cohort 1 February 2023 commencements only

Start date: 31/10/2023  End date: 08/11/2023

9am – 5pm

Requirements for your attendance at the practical week:

  • You MUST enrol into all of the course units as outlined in the course planner, prior to attendance at the residential school.
  • You MUST read your unit's learning guide and assessment material prior to attending the residential school sessions. 
  • It is also advised that students bring a printed copy of the assessments with them to the residential school for reference. 

What do you need to bring with you?

  • Your PPE such as lab coat, safety glasses. You can purchase those items at CQU Bookshop online.
  • Permanent pen to write on glassware during your practical class.
  • You must wear fully enclosed shoes in the laboratory at all times.
  • Your own PC/Laptop or a digital device (e.g. Ipad)
  • Ensure you have access to the relevant learning materials e.g. Laboratory manual, practical assessments, observation check sheets) with you. See the Moodle unit site for further details.  

Contact Us

To apply, or to find out more about this course, contact the Student Advice Team on 13 27 86.

 

Is what I already know taken into account?

Yes.  Your history of study, skills and experience does matter.  Consideration is given to your prior life and work experience as well as formal and informal training.  This may be applied for through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). https://www.cqu.edu.au/courses/study-information/credit-transfer-and-rpl/rpl   Documentary evidence will be requested. 

 

What else might I find useful?

Financial assistance with fees may be available through concessions or via ‘Time to Pay’ payment plan. This and other information such as student support, study and library assistance can be found at www.cqu.edu.au/student-life