Deciding to study is a big decision, and deciding WHAT to study can be even bigger! Once you know what broad topics you are interested in, it is time to decide what level of qualification is right for you, but what is the difference between a certificate or a diploma? Is a degree the best choice for you? How long will all of this take?
If reading is not your style, check out the recap video below
The Australian Qualifications Framework outlines all the recognised qualification levels available in Australia. A brief description of each level is outlined below.
Senior Secondary Certificate
Higher School Certificate/ Year 12
Offered by schools
AQF Level 1 – Certificate I
AQF Level 2 – Certificate II
Introductory Qualifications. These qualifications will give you a taste for an industry and an entry level understanding of key issues in the industry
Usually takes 0.5 – 1 year
Offered by Schools, VET sector, employment service providers and community
AQF Level 3 – Certificate III
Considered a ‘trade level’ qualification, these qualifications will have you working independently using a specific skill set. These are often a regulatory requirement for certain trades such as: Mechanics, Carpenters and other construction trades, Childcare workers, Aged Care workers
Typically 1-2 years or up to 4 years if completed in the workplace through an apprenticeship.
Offered by the VET Sector
AQF Level 4 – Certificate IV
These qualifications are often aligned with first level supervisors/team leaders and technical operators. Generally involve problem solving and responsibility of others or a more specialised level of skills.
Usually takes 0.5 – 2 years
Offered by the VET Sector
AQF Level 5 – Diploma
AQF Level 6 – Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree
These qualifications are often aligned with management and highly technical operators.
Often involve a specialised theoretical knowledge. Generally involves analysis of information and the transfer of knowledge to others.
Usually takes 1 – 2 years
Offer by the VET Sector and some Higher Education providers
AQF Level 7 – Bachelor Degree
Often the first degree completed after high school and often referred to as an Undergraduate Degree. This level creates strong theoretical knowledge, with the ability analyse and interpret data
Usually takes 3 – 4 years
Offered by Higher Education Providers
AQF Level 8 – Bachelor Honours Degree, Post Graduate Certificate, Post Graduate Diploma
Graduates at this level have advanced theoretical knowledge, with the technical communication skills to analyse and share information with others.
Usually takes 1-2 years
Offered by Higher Education and some providers in the VET Sector
AQF Level 9 – Masters Degree (Research), Masters Degree (Coursework), Masters Degree (Extended)
These qualifications result in expert, specialised knowledge to be able to share information with other professionals as well as other audiences.
Usually takes 1 – 4 years
Offered by Higher Education Providers
AQF Level 10 – Doctoral Degree (Research) PhD, Doctoral Degree (Professional)
Graduates at this level work to advance the overall profession in which they operate.
Usually takes 3 – 4 years
Offered by Higher Education Providers
Key questions to ask yourself when choosing a qualification:
- Is there a qualification requirement for the role I am currently looking at
- Are there future qualifications I’d need to gain to pursue the career I want?
- Does the qualification I need for my next role have pre-requisite or entry requirements before I can commence?
- Do I meet the pre-entry requirements for the qualification I am looking at, or do I need to complete something prior?
