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Q: What job can I do after completing my TAFE course? |
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A: Most TAFE courses are vocational and the course name often indicates the type of work that people choose to do upon completion. For example, a Certificate III in Community Services (Children's Services) provides accreditation to enter the childcare profession. Eventually this may lead some people into Youth Work or Childhood Educational Development, depending on further qualifications or experience gained.
However, some course names are not self evident, for example a Diploma of Liberal Arts. Often these types of courses are general and are a starting point for a range of future course options that can lead to particular occupations such as Community Development, Law, Psychology, Social Work or Public Relations. Look at: What can I do with my Qualification at the Careers office for more ideas.
It is important to thoroughly check the subjects being studied in a course and not to just rely on the course name. For example, a Certificate or Diploma in Business Administration or Office Administration sounds as though a person could immediately become an Office Manager, whereas a closer look at the subjects covered indicates that office procedures and software proficiency are the emphasis. If given the opportunity, undertake work experience or a field placement as part of your course. This is an excellent way to discover the multitude of employment opportunities available.
You can also look at Seek and MyCareer websites for job opportunities. |
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Q: Does this course lead to a University degree? |
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A: At Swinburne a ‘pathway' to university is possible from selected TAFE courses. This pathway link outlines the options available for transferring to degree courses or call the Student Information Centre on 1300 368 777
As well as knowing about the possibility to transfer from TAFE to Higher Education, it is necessary to be aware of the following:
 grades required (usually distinction + average)
credit transfers from TAFE to Higher Education
the need to apply either via VTAC or direct application, as well as additional paperwork for Direct Entry within Swinburne
When seeking entry into Higher Education, it is often quite surprising the type of pathways which can be formed by starting in entry level courses (Certificate), progressing to more advanced levels (Diploma or Advanced Diploma) and then obtaining advanced standing into Degree studies. However, it is not a guarantee and it is best to keep checking with your department or the Student Information Centre 1300 368 777. |
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Q: Will my TAFE qualification be recognised interstate or overseas? |
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A: In recent years the Australian Qualifications Framework has made it possible to have TAFE qualifications recognised nationwide. Therefore any TAFE course completed in Victoria will be of equal standing with the equivalent course offered in any other state or territory of Australia.
The change to course names Certificate, Diploma and Advanced Diploma has meant that these terms are known in each state. Exact course names might not be the same, and if you are looking to continue studying a course started in Victoria in another state you might have to study a few more subjects than first envisaged. Contact the Department of Education Information Hotline, Telephone 131 823, for assistance with interstate course information or approach individual TAFE institutions. There are TAFE Information Centres in each state, and the TAFE Course Line can also supply contact details.
With regard to recognition of TAFE courses in job searching, any course, which leads to a qualification in Victoria, is recognised nation wide. Make sure you keep documentation, either certificates or transcripts, for future reference. Make up a file of these as part of your curriculum vitae or CV. Complete your Employability Skills Passport .
Course recognition outside of Australia will vary from country to country, so check with immigration officials associated with each country for information on employment, visas or residency. International recognition will also depend on being able to supply documentation, particularly transcripts giving information about courses and subjects in details. |
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Q: How can I get industry experience? |
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A: Many Swinburne TAFE courses offer work experience or a field placement as a requirement of the course, and in this situation your teacher/department will provide you with excellent contacts.
The Careers and Employment website also has links to a number of potential employers. Paid part-time employment is also an option. Register with SwinEmploy.
However, you will need to follow the same procedures as a person looking for work after completing a TAFE course. You will need a resume, cover letter and interview skills to secure most part-time professional jobs.
Competition for even a part-time job will be a factor, as employers usually want an employee with industry experience, knowledge and skills, and remember at this stage that is what you are trying to acquire. Unfortunately not all employers are willing to give a student with little or no experience their first break into industry. With persistence all things are possible and there are many resources available to assist the eager job seeker. Finally if work experience is not offered in your course and finding a paid part-time or casual professional job is proving to be difficult, you may want to consider volunteer work. ‘Not for Profit' organisations offer a vast range of volunteer opportunities for people undertaking all courses. Contact Volunteering Victoria on 9642 5266 for further assistance. |
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Q: How can I find a job with my TAFE qualifications? |
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A: Visit the Careers Office or go to our website.
Your teachers are an invaluable source when it comes to assisting with job options available at the successful completion of your course. Many teachers have industry connections and are aware of the varying roles and job titles that are developing in the workforce.
Obtaining relevant employment related information that may lead to a job is known as ‘Networking' or ‘Creative Job Hunting' and it is the most effective way to obtain employment. Never let a chance go by to talk to someone you meet about job opportunities.
Tell your friends, family, and colleagues the type of work you are seeking so that they can also network on your behalf.
Jobs are also advertised in newspapers, on websites, by recruitment agencies, in trade or professional magazines, by professional associations and numerous other places. Don't restrict your job searching to just one method. Use a combination of all the resources available to discover the right job and employer for you. |
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Q: Where can I get further information about opportunities for people with my qualifications? |
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A: Remember the Job Guide?
Most jobs or professions have a Union or Professional Association, where professionals and students with similar qualifications or credentials join as members. Associations, for example can supply further information concerning job opportunities, employment trends, salary expectations or ongoing training. |
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M o r e Q u e s t i o n s? 'Ask George' |
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