Image credit: Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Australia’s education system uses the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This framework outlines standards for each qualification level so that they can be recognised by employers and education providers across Australia and internationally.
The AQF also allows for flexible study pathways, so you can move between qualification levels as you progress.
Whether you want to take a short course or complete a full degree, understanding the different qualifications available can help you meet your career goals.
School
Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Years 11 and 12)
Australian states and territories use different names for Senior Secondary. For example, you may see the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education referred to as the HSC, VCE, QCE, WACE or SACE. Students who complete Senior Secondary studies will receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) which can be used to apply for university studies anywhere in Australia.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
VET courses are designed to provide practical, skills-based training for specific industries. You can choose to study these qualifications at a public Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institute, private college (also known as a registered training organisation) or one of Australia’s dual sector universities, offering higher education and VET qualifications.
Certificates I – IV
Length: 6 months to 2 years full-time
These qualifications start with entry-level skills and knowledge and increase in complexity and depth with each level. This means that lower-level Certificate programs are usually shorter than higher level programs. At each level, a VET Certificate may lead directly to employment or further study, so you can choose your own pathway. You may even be able to enter a higher-level Certificate program directly with no prior experience.
Diploma
Length: 1 – 2 years full-time
A Diploma is more advanced than a Certificate IV. A Diploma prepares students for paraprofessional roles or further study in higher education.
Advanced Diploma / Associate Degree
Length: 1 – 2 years full-time
These qualifications offer specialised knowledge and skills for skilled work or further study.
Higher Education
Higher education degrees are offered by universities, public TAFE institutes and private non-university higher education providers.
Vocational degree (coming soon!)
Australia will soon offer a new Vocational Degree. This new qualification will offer advanced skills and specialised technical knowledge at public TAFE institutes. It will be offered at the same education (AQF) level as a Bachelor degree but with more ‘applied’ or practical learning.
Bachelor degree/ undergraduate level
Length: 3 – 5 years full time
An undergraduate degree is the same as a bachelor degree. A standard undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor degree, provides a broad and coherent knowledge base for professional work or further (postgraduate level) study.
Bachelor Honours degree
Length: One-year full time
A Bachelor Honours degree is a one-year qualification following a bachelor degree, or as part of a four-year program. It involves a higher level of academic achievement and often includes a research component.
Graduate Certificate / Graduate Diploma
Length: Six months to 2 years full-time
These postgraduate programs help you build on prior qualifications or professional experience by specialising in a specific area of study.
Master degree
Length: 1 – 4 years full time
Master degree programs develop advanced knowledge and expertise in a chosen field. A master’s level degree may be available by coursework, research or a combination of both.
Doctoral degree
Length: 1 – 4 years full time
A doctoral degree is the highest level of qualification in Australia. A PhD or professional doctorate involves original research that contributes new knowledge to a field.
Search for a course that suits you
Head to our Course Search tool and start exploring courses, education providers or scholarships for studying in Australia. You can use the Course Search tool to compare your options and enquire with education providers.
You can also find out more about the different types of education providers here.