Course Summary
Discover the fast‑growing world of robotics, automation and intelligent systems. This Career Taster introduces students to the core concepts behind autonomous technologies and electronic control systems, combining theory with hands‑on activities to demonstrate how modern automated devices operate. Across this multi‑day program, students will learn about sensors, processors, inputs and outputs, explore real examples of industrial and mobile automation, and gain experience assembling and programming a simple robotic vehicle. The taster provides an engaging first look at the systems that power robotics, drones, automated machinery and smart technologies. This course invites students to explore the emerging careers and pathways available in automation and intelligent systems.
Requirements - To Be Eligible
For your application to be considered, you must meet the following entry requirements.
Entry RequirementsEnrolment in this course is subject to meeting the funding eligibility criteria for Career Tasters. Please see the Fees and Scholarships tab for more information.
During your study at CQUniversity
To take part in this Career Taster, students must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while in workshops and training areas. PPE is required to help keep students safe in practical learning environments.
Students are to wear:
- Closed-in safety boots with reinforced toe cap (Approved to AS/NZS 2210.3:2019)
- Long-sleeved cotton drill/twill shirt
- Long cotton drill or denim work pants
Important information
- PPE must be worn at all times when directed by CQUniversity staff.
- Students who do not wear the required PPE will not be able to participate in practical activities
Course Details
| Course Type | Short Course (Non-accredited) |
|---|---|
| Student Availability |
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| Fees | For detailed information on Course Fees, visit www.cqu.edu.au/fees |
| Application Mode |
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| How to Apply | Please Enquire |
| Study Area |
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| Skill Area |
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Admission Codes
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Domestic Students Tertiary Admission Centre Codes (TAC) Codes |
Not Applicable |
|---|---|
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International Students CRICOS Codes |
Not Applicable |
Student Outcomes, Career Opportunities and Occupations
Participants will engage with programmable systems and electronic components, including circuit building and Arduino programming. These skills are central to careers in robotics, industrial automation, and electronics repair, but also intersect with fields such as defence technology, smart agriculture, and digital art installations. This Taster encourages students to think critically and creatively about how programmable systems shape modern industries, offering a launchpad for future exploration in STEM and innovation-focused sectors.
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.
This non-accredited Career Taster program is delivered face-to-face over five consecutive days at your enrolled CQUniversity campus.
Across the program, you’ll take part in practical, supervised activities that help you explore key concepts such as electronic components, system behaviour, basic programming logic and how technology responds to different inputs. You’ll experiment with beginner‑friendly tools and tech platforms, work through guided tasks, and see how ideas used in robotics, sensors and automation apply to real‑world industries.
- On-campus
| Units | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NUCRT279A | WHS and Introduction to Automation and Electronic Technologies | More Information | Training.gov Details | |
| NUCRT279B | Programmable Systems & Electronic Components | More Information | Training.gov Details | |
Unit Sequence
| Unit Code | Unit Name |
|---|---|
| NUCRT279A | WHS and Introduction to Automation and Electronic Technologies |
| NUCRT279B | Programmable Systems & Electronic Components |
Students will gain foundational knowledge and practical exposure to automation concepts, electronic components, coding basics and system control. They will build confidence working with microcontrollers, simple circuits and digital tools, developing problem‑solving and teamwork skills applicable to many technology‑driven careers. This taster provides insight into pathways such as robotics / mechatronics technician assistant, electronics technician apprentice, automation and control support roles, engineering trade pathways (eectrical & mechatronics), coding and digital technology pathways.
Upon completion of this non-accredited course students will receive a Statement of Participation acknowledging their engagement and the skills areas covered.