Queensland has many training pathways and qualification options to help you reach your career goals.
Different ways to learn
Vocational education and training (VET) courses
VET (referred to as 'training' on this website) courses are often hands-on. They combine theoretical learning with practical training to help you prepare for specific jobs. This type of training can help you to start working quickly or gain job-ready skills.
These courses are delivered by training providers called registered training organisations (RTOs). If you're aiming to get a qualification from your training, the qualification must be issued by an RTO to be valid. Learn more about choosing a training provider.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
Some training courses can be done through an apprenticeship or traineeship. This means you can earn while you learn, gaining real-world experience as you work towards a qualification. You'll learn from someone who's already working in your industry. It’s a great way to start your career with confidence and experience.
University courses
This website focuses on vocational education and training (VET) rather than university courses.
Compare the differences between training and university study to decide what suits you best.
Other training options
Not all training leads to a formal qualification, but it can still help you build skills and confidence. Some training may count towards a qualification if you decide to enrol in one later.
Examples include:
- Skill sets: Targeted training that builds specific job skills.
- Short courses: Learn essential skills like literacy or numeracy.
- Workshops and seminars: Industry-specific training or professional development, sometimes in very specific areas like using a computer program.
- Community programs: Free or low-cost training designed to build foundation skills for jobseekers or people returning to work.
Qualification levels
In Australia, qualifications are designed to suit the different types of knowledge and skills needed for different jobs. They can be completed through training providers—like TAFE, CQUniversity or private organisations—or through universities.
You don't need to do these qualifications in order (except for postgraduate study), unless the qualification has specified prerequisites. For example, you don't necessarily need to do a certificate I before a certificate II. Choose the qualification that suits your goals.
Certificates I and II
- What you’ll learn: Basic skills for entry-level jobs.
- Time to complete: Usually 3 to 6 months.
- Pathways: These qualifications provide a foundation for further study or work.
- These qualifications might suit you if:
- you're a high school student preparing for your future career
- you want to improve basic skills like communicating and time management
- you want to get into a specific job that requires a certificate I or II.
Certificates III and IV
- What you’ll learn: Practical, job-specific skills.
- Time to complete: Usually 6 months to 2 years. Traineeships usually take 1–2 years and apprenticeships usually take 3–4 years.
- Pathways: These qualifications can help you to get a job because they're often designed to teach you skills needed for specific roles.
- These qualifications might suit you if:
- you're looking for a job
- you want to earn money while you complete training—you might be able to do an apprenticeship or traineeship
- you want to get into a specific job that requires a certificate III or IV.
Diploma and advanced diploma
- What you’ll learn: Specialised skills for professional or technical roles.
- Time to complete: Usually 1 to 2 years. Traineeships usually take 1–2 years and apprenticeships usually take 3–4 years.
- Pathways: Some courses include work placements or internships, giving you practical experience in your chosen field.
- These qualifications might suit you if:
- you already have experience or a lower-level qualification and want to take the next step
- you want to do a higher level apprenticeship or traineeship
- you’re preparing for a supervisory or management role
- you want a pathway into university study.
Bachelor degree
- What you’ll learn: In-depth knowledge and critical thinking skills for professional careers.
- Time to complete: Usually 3 to 4 years.
- Pathways: Some degrees include practical placements, internships or research projects that help you prepare for work in your industry.
- This qualification might suit you if:
- you want a professional career that usually requires a degree, like nursing, teaching or engineering
- you enjoy academic learning and research
- you think you might be interested in doing postgraduate study later.
Graduate certificate and graduate diploma
- What you’ll learn: Advanced knowledge and specialised skills that build on a diploma, advanced diploma, bachelor degree or professional experience.
- Time to complete: Usually 6 months to 1 year.
- Pathways: These qualifications can deepen your expertise, help you move into new areas or lead into a master degree.
- This qualification might suit you if:
- you need specialised skills and knowledge for a specific role or industry
- you’re looking to advance in your career without committing to a full master degree
- you want recognised postgraduate study to support a career change or specialisation.
Postgraduate degrees
These qualifications are usually completed after a bachelor degree and include honours, master and doctoral degrees.
- What you’ll learn: Expert knowledge and research skills for advanced or leadership roles.
- Time to complete: Usually 1 to 4 years.
- Pathways: Postgraduate study builds on your existing qualifications or professional experience and can lead to senior or specialist roles.
- These qualifications might suit you if:
- you want to specialise in your field or move into leadership
- you’re pursuing a career in research or academia
- you want to expand your qualifications to support career change or advancement.