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Learn about training course and qualification levels

Vocational Education and Training (VET) course and qualification levels explained

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Vocational Education and Training (VET) offers different level courses so you can choose the skill level you need. For example:

VET courses give you skills that are relevant. They are designed to meet the needs of industry, enterprise, education and the community.

Accredited and regulated training

The courses on the Victorian Skills Gateway(opens in a new window) are delivered by registered training organisations (RTOs).

This means that:

Nationally recognised qualifications

Certificate and Diploma courses are nationally recognised qualifications. See below for the skills you can expect to gain from each qualification level.

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A Certificate I will give you foundational skills and knowledge. It will prepare you to enter the workforce and get involved in the community.

A Certificate I can be a pathway to further learning.

Typical course length (based on full time study)

6 months to 1 year

In some industries Certificate II is the minimum qualification for entry level jobs.

You may be able to do a Certificate II as part of a traineeship or a pre-apprenticeship. This will give you a mix of on-the-job and off-the-job training.

A Certificate II can be a pathway to further learning.

Typical course length (based on full time study)

6 months to 1 year

A Certificate III is the minimum qualification for entry into many industries. You will gain theoretical knowledge and develop higher level skills for problem solving.

You may be able to do a Certificate III as part of a traineeship or an apprenticeship. This will give you a mix of on-the-job and off-the-job training.

A Certificate III can be a pathway to further learning.

Typical course length (based on full time study)

1 to 2 years, or up to 4 years for an apprenticeship

A Certificate IV will prepare you for work in areas that may require complex skills.

You will gain a broad knowledge base and will learn how to analyse and evaluate information. You will be able to use this knowledge and skills in a wide variety of roles and industries.

A Certificate IV can be a pathway to further learning.

Typical course length (based on full time study)

6 months to 2 years

A Diploma or Advanced Diploma will help you develop a high level of expertise in a particular area. You will gain theoretical knowledge and technical and creative skills.

This level of training will prepare you to work in roles requiring advanced skills, such as paraprofessional, management or supervisory positions.

A Diploma or Advanced Diploma can be a pathway to a university course in a related field.

Typical course length (based on full time study)

Diploma: 1 to 2 years Advanced Diploma: 1.5 to 2 years

A vocational Graduate Certificate or Diploma will help you to develop a high level of expertise in a particular area. You will gain theoretical knowledge and technical and creative skills.

This level of training will prepare you to work in roles requiring advanced skills, such as paraprofessional, management or supervisory positions.

Typical course length (based on full time study)

Graduate Certificate: 0.5 to 1 year Graduate Diploma: 1 to 2 years

For more details visit:

Apprenticeships and traineeships

Some Certificate courses can be done as an apprenticeship or traineeship. You will learn on the job in a real workplace while studying a VET course through a training provider.

Find out more about apprenticeships and traineeships.

Skill sets and short courses

Skill sets and short courses give you rapid training in a specific area. They are often in fields with skills shortages and high workforce demands.

They are not full qualifications, but you will get a certificate of attainment on completion.

View funded skill sets and short courses(opens in a new window) currently available in Victoria.

VCE, VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate

In Victoria, there are three study options in year 11 and 12:

You can choose from a range of subjects, including VET courses and subjects.

For more information visit:

Other training course terms

Units of competency

Qualifications are a set of units of competency. Each unit covers a specific requirement or skill for a particular workplace task.

The work you do in each unit will be assessed. Once you have successfully completed a unit, it will go towards completing the qualification.

Courses with core units only

Some courses only have core units, so you must complete each unit to complete the qualification.

Courses with core and elective units

Some courses have core and elective units. To complete the qualification:

Before you enrol, talk to your training provider to make sure your selected units meet the course requirements.

Entry requirements

Some courses have mandatory entry requirements. Before you apply, ask your preferred training provider if you meet these requirements.

If you do not meet the entry requirements

You may be able to do a pre-accredited training course or a foundation skills course to help you meet the requirements. Ask your preferred training provider.

Credit for skills, experience or past study

You may be able to get credit for your skills, experience or past study using a credit transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

More free help and resources

TAFE and Training Line

Get help and information about TAFE and training courses, qualifications and training providers in Victoria.

Skills and Jobs Centres

Get free qualified, independent advice and support on training, career planning and finding a job in your local area.

Training and careers in growing industries

Learn about high demand industries in Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of jobs you could do, and what training you’ll need.

Get financial assistance for training and other expenses

You may be eligible for Free TAFE or Skills First funding to help pay for your training.

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Updated 17 June 2025

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