TAFE Queensland acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and respect the continuing connection to land, waters and family that First nations peoples uphold. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future. We recognise that teaching and learning has taken place on Country for over 60,000 years and that two-way learning is an important part of our reconciliation journey.
Why study at TAFE Queensland?
TAFE Queensland is the largest, most experienced training provider in the state, with a history of serving Queensland’s communities for more than 140 years. We offer more than 400 practical, industry-relevant courses from entry-level certificates to bachelor degrees. Our training is delivered to over 139,000 students each year across more than 60 locations in Queensland.
We train over
139,000
students every year
100% of our diploma and higher-level courses have diploma-to-degree pathways
Industry experienced teachers, eager to share their knowledge
Over 60 training locations
89% student satisfaction rating (and we’re working very hard on the other 11%)
84% of our graduates go on to work or further study
Practical hands-on courses that get you job-ready sooner
Flexible & supportive learning environment
400 industry-relevant courses from certificates to bachelor degrees
Qualifications explained
We offer a full range of nationally-recognised qualifications from entry-level certificates through to degrees. We also offer comprehensive trade training from beginner to advanced levels.
Certificates
Certificate I
Certificate I courses cover base-level skills for entry into the workforce.
Certificate II
Certificate II courses prepare you for entry-level positions or apprenticeships in a variety of industries.
Certificate III
Certificate III qualifications are ideal for those wanting to gain a trade, change careers or move out of entry-level roles.
Certificate IV
Certificate IV courses typically interest those who want to advance their careers in the industry they already work in, or further develop skills and knowledge acquired through previous study.
Diplomas
Diploma
Diploma courses develop broad and in-depth skills in professional, technical or creative fields.
University pathways
There’s more than one way to get into your dream university course. We have a range of pathway options that can get you started on your university degree sooner. Explore your options at: tafeqld.edu.au/courses/ pathways-to-university
Degrees
Aim higher with a hands-on degree. In addition to offering our own specialist degrees, TAFE Queensland has partnered with some of Australia’s most established and respected universities to deliver a variety of world-class degrees in a practical, job-focused training environment.
Trade qualifications
Pre-apprenticeship courses
Pre-apprenticeships are a great way to improve your prospects of gaining an apprenticeship, develop practical skills in your trade, and gain credit towards a full apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships
Earn while you learn by undertaking an apprenticeship with TAFE Queensland. Completing an apprenticeship is essential if you want to become a qualified tradesperson.
Traineeships
Much like apprenticeships, traineeships give you the opportunity to combine training with a paying job. Trainees are trained in vocational areas such as early childhood education and care, or business.
Post-trade training
Post-trade training is great if you want to specialise, gain a specific trade licence, gain credit towards university, or expand your horizons after completing an apprenticeship.
Ways you can study
On campus
You’ll learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces like a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated learning environment. You can also interact with your teachers using live video or web conference programs. You may also need to access our learning management system, Connect, to access resources, assessment details or submit assessments.
On campus with some online
You’ll primarily learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces like a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated learning environment. In this study mode you will attend a TAFE Queensland campus most of the time, but some of your classes or training may be via video or web conference programs (like Zoom).
Online self-directed
Our online self-directed courses are designed for individuals who want the flexibility to study at their own pace and cannot or prefer not to attend on campus or be locked into attending classes at specified times. You will access learning materials including documents, videos, assessments and more through Connect – our learning management system and will complete self-paced study.
Online virtual classroom
Your course will be delivered online, but to a scheduled timetable. To complete your study you will interact with your teachers and other students using live video or web conference programs (like Zoom), and access learning materials through Connect – our learning management system.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
If you’ve completed prior study or have significant work experience, applying for credit transfers or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can reduce study time and costs.
Online with on campus practical training
Your course is primarily online, however you will need to come into a campus to undertake face-to-face practical learning and assessment. As an online student you will access learning materials through Connect – our learning management system and may interact with your teachers and other students using live video or web conference programs.
Residential blocks
Some of our courses are delivered via mixed mode in intensive blocks of training and distance education. You may be required to travel away from home to complete this type of study. Funding support may be available to assist students with travel, accommodation and meal costs. Students must provide evidence of ABSTUDY eligibility.
Apprenticeship
Earn while you learn. Work and earn a wage with an employer while you complete hands-on training and a nationally-recognised qualification.
Traineeship
Work and learn at the same time. Combine on-the-job training with an employer, while you study and get paid.
TAFE at School
If you’re a Year 10, 11 or 12 student, you can complete a range of certificate I, II or III courses. TAFE at School courses work in with your existing high school studies and also count towards your Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
Subsidies and payment options*
As a TAFE Queensland student, there are a range of subsidies, concessions, loans and scholarships you may be eligible for, to assist you with the cost of your study. Fees are payable 30 days prior to the commencement of the course, but there may be other deferred payment options available to you.
Payment plans
TAFE Queensland offers an interest free payment plan option to approved students allowing them to pay their fees in instalments over the duration of their study. Payment plans are available for both full fee paying students and students paying a subsidised tuition fee. Terms and conditions apply and payment plans are only offered through direct debit bank contracts. To find out if you’re eligible for government and independent funding to help reduce the cost of your training, visit tafeqld.edu.au/eligibility-calculator
Scholarships
Achieve your career goals with the help of a TAFE Queensland Scholarship. For further information, visit scholarships.tafeqld.edu.au
How to apply
1 Choose your course
• Make sure you fully understand the course details and fees.
2 Entry requirements
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans (VSL) are an Australian Government loan program that helps eligible VET students pay their tuition fees. If you’re studying a diploma, advanced diploma, graduate certificate or graduate diploma, you may be eligible for a VET Student Loan. For further information visit tafeqld.edu.au/vet-student-loans
VET student loans will not be approved for students who do not meet eligibility requirements. A VET Student Loan gives rise to a VETSL debt which continues to be a debt due to the commonwealth until it is repaid.
Student portal
Through the portal, you can pay your fees, update your details, access your Statement of Account, check your academic results and submit electronic requests. For example: Credit Transfer application, change of name. tafeqld.edu.au/student-portal
• Some courses don’t have any entry requirements, however may require previous qualifications, skills or knowledge. You can find this information on all course pages on our website under Important Information.
3 Your rights and responsibilities as a student
• It is important that you take the time to familiarise yourself with the TAFE Queensland Student Rules and Policies on our website. Visit tafeqld.edu.au/student-rules
4 Complete your application
• Go to tafeqld.edu.au/eligibilitydocuments to view eligibility documents required.
• Gather and upload your eligibility documents to submit online via the Apply Now button on the course brochure, apply via the Student Portal or provide hard copies to a Customer Service Centre.
• Arrange payment and enrol.
*Subsidies and payment options are subject to change.
Support services
Everyone’s journey is different and sometimes you need some extra support. We’re here to help. Free and confidential support services are available to all students.
Learning support
The Learning Skills team is ready to assist you with:
• Assignments, essay writing and referencing.
• Study skills and exam preparation.
• English and maths.
• Time management and organisation skills.
Online Support
Access to TAFE Queensland learning support and resources including Studiosity. Through Studiosity, you can chat online to expert tutors who can help you with your studies. Studiosity is available for students studying qualifications certificate III and above.
Employment Officer
We have an employment expert who can help match you to a job opportunity as they become available. The position works closely with our other student services to help guide and support you as you seek employment.
Indigenous student support
If you are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student, you can access additional student support services. Our Indigenous student support officers can offer specific advice and help on a variety of topics including study help, pathways and career options.
AccessAbility support
If you identify with having a disability, our staff can work with you to develop a support plan
This may include:
• Communicating with your teacher on your behalf, if required.
• Providing sign language interpreters, readers and scribes.
• Loaning you assistive technology.
• Coordinating alternative assessment arrangements.
Counselling support
Short-term counselling is available for all students. Support services include:
• Deciding what career path to follow.
• Choosing the right course.
• General difficulties with student life.
• Personal and complex issues.
• Cross-cultural and special needs.
• Service referrals for long-term support.
Libraries
All TAFE Queensland students receive automatic library membership which gives you access to our physical library services as well as an extensive range of digital resources that are available to use at any time.
Our library network allows both online and on-campus students to access information and borrow resources from across all TAFE Queensland libraries.
Our fully qualified library staff can help you:
• Use the library facilities including the library catalogue.
• Access digital resources including eBooks, eJournals, streaming videos, and databases.
• Reserve resources from other campuses.
• Start to research your assignment topic.
• Reference assignment sources to avoid copyright and plagiarism issues.
Learn more: library.tafeqld.edu.au
Study areas
Animal Services
Animal Studies
Certificate III in Animal Care Services ACM30122
Job prospects: Animal Attendant, Animal Care Receptionist, Animal Welfare Officer, Assistant in Animal Care Practice
Certificate III in Animal Care Services ACM30122 /Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care ACM30321 (Dual award) in partnership with Dreamworld
Job prospects: Animal Attendant, Animal Care Receptionist, Animal Welfare Officer, Assistant in Animal Care Practice, Wildlife Ranger, Zookeeper
Certificate III in Animal Care Services ACM30122 /Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care ACM30321 (Dual award) in collaboration with Australia Zoo
Job prospects: Animal Attendant, Animal Care Receptionist, Animal Welfare Officer, Assistant in Animal Care Practice, Wildlife Ranger, Zookeeper
Veterinary Nursing
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing ACM40418
Job prospects: Veterinary Nurse
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane) AVI50222
Job
Job
Business and Justice
Accounting and Finance
AVI50519
Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping FNS40222
Certificate III in Business (Business Administration)^ BSB30120
Job
Diploma of Business^ BSB50120
Job prospects: Program Consultant, Program
Diploma of Leadership and Management^ BSB50420
Executive Officer, Administration Manager
Job prospects: Business Manager, Human Resource Manager, Sales Team Manager
Diploma of Project Management BSB50820
Job prospects: Project Administrator, Project Manager, Program Coordinator, Operations Manager
Legal, Crime and Justice
Certificate IV in Justice Studies 10971NAT
Job prospects: Protective Services Officer, Australian Border Force Officer, Private/Government Investigator, Corrections Officer, Police Officer, Youth Justice Roles
Child Care
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30121
Job prospects: Outside School Hours Care Assistant, Family Day Care Provider, Early Childhood Education and Care Assistant/Care Worker
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care* CHC50121
Job prospects: Early Childhood Educator, Out of School Hours Care Coordinator, Early Childhood Centre Director
Southport
Ashmore
Coolangatta
Robina
Robina, Southport
Robina,
Community Services
Aged Care
Certificate III in Individual Support CHC33021 (Ageing and Disability streams)
Job prospects: Aged Care Worker, Disability Carer, Residential Care Worker
Certificate IV in Disability Support CHC43121
Job prospects: Care Service Team Leader, Disability Officer/Support Worker/Team Leader, NDIS Support Worker or Provider, Volunteer Coordinator
Community Services
Certificate III in Community Services CHC32015
Job prospects: Community Care Worker, Intake and Referral Worker, Neighbourhood Centre Worker, Respite Care Worker, Support Worker Southport
Certificate IV in Community Services CHC42021
Job prospects: Community Health, Development or Services Worker, Family Support Worker, Migrant Community Worker, Relationship Educator, Residential Care Worker, Tenants Advisory Worker, Volunteer Coordinator
Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention CHC40321
Job prospects: Child Safety Support Officer, Child and Youth Residential Care Worker, Youth Support Officer, Youth Justice Worker
Certificate IV in Youth Work CHC40421
Job prospects: Youth Worker, Community Services Worker, Residential Care Officer
Mental Health Services
Certificate IV in Mental Health CHC43315
Job prospects: Community Services Worker, Mental Health Officer, Mental Health Support Worker
Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work CHC43515
Job prospects: Coordinator – Mental Health (Carer Peer Work), Coordinator – Mental Health (Consumer Peer Work), Mental Health Outreach Worker
Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315
Job prospects: Case Manager, Mental Health Worker, Support Coordinator, Family/Community Mental Health Support Worker
Job prospects: Audio Assistant, Musician, Stage Hand
Diploma of Music* CUA50820 (Performance)
Job prospects: Composer, Musician, Music Industry Professional, Vocalist
Diploma of Music* CUA50820 (Sound Production)
Job prospects: Live Sound Engineer, Music Producer, Studio Engineer, Stage Manager
BACHELOR PROGRAM WITH UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA (CRICOS: 102457G | Provider: 00212K) Music
Bachelor of Creative Industries ARB403 (Contemporary Music Practice)
Job prospects: Composer, Music Producer, Musician, Music Teacher, Sound Engineer
Education and Training
Education Support
Certificate III in School Based Education Support CHC30221
Job prospects: Education Assistant (Special Needs), Home Tutor, Indigenous Support Worker, Teacher Aide/Assistant
Certificate IV in School Based Education Support CHC40221
Job prospects: Education Assistant, Indigenous Language and Culture Teaching Assistant, Education Support Worker, School Officer, Teacher Aide, Inclusive Education Assistant, Home Tutor
Foundation Skills
Course in Skills to Access Learning Pathways 11137NAT
Job prospects: Further study pathways
Course in Skills to Develop Learning Pathways 11138NAT
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine paid work with structured training to help you gain a qualification. At TAFE Queensland, we work with your employer to support your success in a trade (apprenticeship) or a vocational area (traineeship).
Upon completion, you may be in a great position to continue working, pursue further study, or even start your own business!
Apprenticeships and traineeships can be started during high school, when you have recently finished, or even later in life if you’ve been in the workforce for a while.
Traineeships vary in length from six months to three years, while apprenticeships generally take three to four years to complete. TAFE Queensland will assist you and your employer to get started and provide ongoing support every step of the way.
Four easy steps to become an apprentice or trainee
1 Choose the right apprenticeship or traineeship
• think about what you enjoy and where your interests lie
• talk to family, friends, or your school career counsellor or guidance officer
• get the facts at qld.gov.au/education/apprenticeships
2 Find an employer
You can be employed directly by a business, which will pay your wages and train you with the support of a training organisation.
Ways to find an employer:
• contact businesses in person, by phone, or via personalised emails
• search job websites like workforceaustralia.gov.au, seek.com.au, and careerone.com.au
• use your personal network—ask family and friends if they know someone hiring
• contact a Workforce Australia provider for job preparation and placement support: workforceaustralia.gov.au
• consider a Group Training Organisation (GTO), which places you with different businesses and manages your training: desbt.qld.gov.au/training/employers/gto
• TAFE Queensland has Vocational Placement Coordinators to assist Certificate II graduates with work experience or placement.
3 Choose your training partners
• Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN): They’ll help you and your employer complete the training contract
• Training Organisation: You and your employer will choose a Registered Training Organisation (like TAFE Queensland) to support your training.
Learn more: australianapprenticeships.gov.au
4 Get started
• complete your paperwork: Work with your employer and training organisation to finalise your training plan
• use the probationary period: This is a trial phase where both you and your employer decide whether to continue.
TAFE Queensland Skill sets
Skill sets are accredited short courses that are recognised by industry and lead to a qualification. They’re a great way to quickly build on existing skills and formal competencies or retrain in a new area without committing to a full qualification.
When you successfully complete a skill set you’ll be issued with a Statement of Attainment which is a nationally-recognised certification. Because the units you complete in a skill set are accredited, they can give you credit towards a related qualification such as a certificate or diploma if you choose to continue your study or training in the future.
Short courses
Try a new career path, brush up on your skills, or unlock your creative talents with a short course. Our short courses are designed to give you an introduction into a new area without the time and cost of a formal or full qualification.
Accredited short courses
Short courses, units, and skill sets are a great option if you’re a qualified professional who wants to diversify your professional portfolio and boost your resume. An accredited short course or skill set will earn you official credits for the units you complete. These unit credits may even be applied to a related qualification at a later date if you choose to study a full certificate or diploma.
Course Campus
Nursing and Health
• HLTAID009 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• HLTAID011 Provide First Aid Southport
Non-accredited short courses
Non-accredited short courses give you hands-on training in a new set of skills you can use in your personal or professional life. They are a great way to refresh your knowledge if you’ve been out of an industry for a while, or even to give you a taste of a different industry altogether.
• AutoCAD
• Biosecurity, Pests and Diseases of Honey Bees
• Choux Pastry Workshop
• Creative Writing
• Creative Writing – Advanced
• Introduction to Interior Design
• Introduction to the Stockmarket
• Introduction to Veterinary Nursing
• Microsoft Office Excel
• Seasonal Management of Honey Bees
• Spanish Conversation
• Sourdough Mastery Basic Workshop
• Spongecake Workshop for Beginners
• Starting and Managing a Small Business
• Sweet and Savoury Tarts Workshop
• Xero Accounting
• Xero GST and BAS
Bachelor of Nursing pathway
Anthea Nursing student
Mark Nursing teacher
Our facilities
CLINICAL LABS
Our Southport campus is home to our clinical labs, boasting a 64-bed simulated real-world hospital environment, including:
• State-of-the-art simulation labs with augmented reality hologram patients
• Innovative, world class equipment for all areas of health care service
• An industry-standard rehabilitation room, fully equipped with physical rehabilitation equipment for settings ranging from hospitals to community-based care
ROBINA CAMPUS
Making history as the first TAFE in Australia to be named ‘Sustainability Institution of the Year’ at the 2025 Green Gown Awards Australasia, the Robina campus is a place for the community to come together. Students practise their newfound skills, connecting with the local community at our live training facilities, including:
• Green Fields Bar + Restaurant
• Nature’s Escape Hair and Beauty Salon
• REC – Robina Events Centre
• Seedpod Café
• TQ Fitness
CREATIVE HUB
Offering a range of creative outlets, our purpose-built campus located at Coomera will amplify your inspiration. Our specialist facilities include:
• Cyber security training operation centre
• Industry-standard software, hardware, programs and tools
• Recording studios featuring Avid Pro Tools and Sibelius
• Jed Cahill Theatre and multi-purpose auditorium
TRADE TRAINING
Find industry-standard technology and latest diagnostic equipment from across all industries at our innovative trades areas located at Ashmore and Coomera Marine campuses, including:
• Custom-built carpentry building, featuring an elevated working at heights training area
• Multi-level plumbing tower that simulates the complexities of residential and commercial multi-level dwellings
• Purpose-built marine campus equipped with separate fiberglass chambers and spray-painting booths