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Our qualifications and study modes

We offer over 350 courses from Certificate I to Advanced Diplomas, apprenticeships and traineeships, plus short courses and skill sets. Whether you’re just starting out in the workforce, looking to upskill, change careers or returning to work, we have a qualification to take you in the right direction.

Our qualifications

Our award courses are in line with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF establishes standard titles and levels for courses across Australia.

North Metropolitan TAFE accredits all of our award courses which are then registered with Training.gov.au to obtain national status.

Usually set at a study level that is below the standards required for Certificate I, or is suited to students gaining registration in an industry.

Certificate I courses cover base-level skills for entry into the workforce. They usually don't require you to have any prior knowledge or education and are a great place to start if you haven't studied in a while, or want a basic introduction to a new field.

Certificate II courses prepare you for entry-level positions or to begin an apprenticeships in a variety of industries. As well as providing basic knowledge, completing a Certificate II demonstrates to a potential employer that you’re actively interested in their industry.

Certificate III courses develop your skills, theoretical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. This level of qualification is ideal for those wanting to gain a trade, change careers or move out of entry-level roles.

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.

Diploma courses develop broad and in-depth skills in professional, technical or creative fields. Skills taught include planning, development and management.

Many diplomas are eligible for a VET Student Loan.

Advanced Diploma courses will develop your high-level practical and professional skills. With full-time courses typically taking two or three years, an advanced diploma is ideal for ambitious professionals wanting to fast-track their career.

Similar to diplomas, many advanced diplomas are eligible for a VET Student Loan.

Skill sets will give you a Statement of Attainment for specific workplace skills. They are made up of units of competency which link to an industry need or regulatory requirement.

Skill sets are usually identified in the course title.

Short courses will help you gain skills in a specific area to help you get a promotion, change career or just learn for fun.

Gain an industry licence, learn a language or follow your creative passion.  

Our study modes

We offer a range of study options to ensure you can achieve a good work-life balance.

Depending on the delivery method of your course or your units, there may be different study modes available to you. Below is a brief explanation of the various study modes available.

Full-time

Our on campus (full-time) courses usually run weekdays during business hours, with approximately 20-25 contact hours per week.

Courses can range from one semester to a few years, depending on what you study. Courses may have an intake in Semester 1 or 2, or both, and applications are usually online through TAFE Admissions.

Part-time

Part-time study is perfect for those who want to obtain new skills but can’t attend a full-time course. This study mode usually requires attending classes on weekdays, either in the evening or during the day. Classes may be face-to-face, online, or a combination of both. Applications are usually open for part-time study each semester.

Please note

  • Not all courses are offered part-time, this information is available on the course pages. If you wish to study a course part-time, please contact us to discuss your options.

  • Minimum class numbers apply for part-time classes to run. We will contact you with information about places once available.

*All requests to reduce study load are considered but not guaranteed.

Studying online can give you the flexibility of learning at a time and place that suits you.

Courses are run by our qualified lecturers and span a variety of industries. You will need some basic computer skills and technical access to study online.

Online enrolments are open for many study areas.

Online study information pack for students (1 MB) (PDF document)

Please note

  • Be aware that in some courses there is a recommended path because some units should be completed before other units.
  • You will not be able to enrol into the whole course in one intake.
  • If you are enrolled in a course that runs for more than one semester (six months), you need to enrol for the next semester to lock in your place.
  • You will also be required to pay your fees for the coming semester. We will contact you with enrolment information as soon as your current semester results have been finalised.

Students are required to complete units via a combination of online work and on campus attendance.

Courses are run by our qualified lecturers and span a variety of industries. You will need some basic computer skills and technical access to study online.

Employer-based training offers a flexible, self-paced study program which combines workplace recognition of prior learning and individualised ‘gap’ training to attain your qualification.

Every time you are at work, you are learning and working towards your qualification – so you can structure your learning to fit your life.

Learning and assessment plans are created individually in consultation with you and your employer.

Enrolments are usually available at any time.

An apprenticeship or traineeship combines paid on-the-job training and study. You must be employed by a business and sign a training contract registered with the Apprenticeship Office.  

Apprenticeships usually take 3-4 years to complete, you’ll gain practical experience at work and complete training with NMTAFE. Upon completion, you are usually awarded with a Trade Certificate.

Traineeships usually take between nine and 48 months, depending on what qualification you undertake.

You’ll graduate with a qualification ranging from Certificate III to a Diploma.