About the Course

Course Description:

This course is designed to provide students with the background knowledge and skills to undertake further studies and careers in areas needing proficiency in mathematics, science, communications and computing. The Certificate IV in Science will be useful for students wishing to change careers, improve employment opportunities or obtain employment in science-based industries.

Aims & Objectives:

This course aims to prepare adults to pursue further tertiary studies in the science field.

Course Structure:

The course is currently under review. However, it is expected that the re-accredited course will provide foundation learning in all streams of science and mathematics. There will be flexibility to choose modules that will best meet the individual needs of students. 

Modules will cover the following disciplines of science:  

• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Information Technology
• Biology
• Study Skills
• Communications in Science

Employment Outcomes

Career Opportunities:

Following the successful completion of appropriate units, students may wish to apply as a mature-age student for entry to a university degree or a TAFE diploma course in applied science, information technology, environmental science, health, engineering etc. Students' access to career fields such as applied science, information technology, nursing, paramedical professions and alternative medicine will be improved.

How To Apply

Entry Requirements:

There are no formal entry requirements.

Credit Transfer:

Applicants with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be granted 'credit' and/or entry to the course with 'advanced standing'. University policies apply and applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. For further information refer to the Credit Transfer Guide at: http://www.swinburne.edu.au/corporate/marketing/pathways//

Pathways (articulation):

An advanced credit transfer system, known as the Pathways program, is in place at Swinburne. Through Pathways, students with one or more of a wide range of post-secondary qualifications (both local and international) can gain entry into a course with advanced standing. Certain subject requirements must be met and an acceptable standard of results achieved in order to gain admission and for maximum credit to be granted. For further information refer to the Credit Transfer Guide at: http://www.swinburne.edu.au/corporate/marketing/pathways//

Recognition of Prior Learning:

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process where a student may be granted credit or partial credit towards a qualification in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training.

Further details for students considering TAFE courses can be found on the RPL website.

Course Fees:

TAFE course fees are set by the government, and from 1 January 2008 the fees payable by students enrolled in the TAFE division may be made up of the following:

• Tuition fee ($1.37 per student contact hour)
• Amenities fee
• Materials charges (where applicable)
• Ancillary fee (where applicable)

Concession fees apply for health care card holders.

For full details on TAFE fees, visit the student fees website.

Application Procedure:

Full-time applicants should apply through VTAC (Code No. 77021) . Part-time applicants should contact the Department of Public Safety & Sciences to obtain an application form.

Find Out More

Information Sessions:

2008 Open Day

Sunday 17 August

10:00 am - 4:00 pm               

Only at Hawthorn, Lilydale and Prahran campuses.

For more information, visit www.swinburne.edu.au/openday

Further information: