TAFE institutions are not the only places where students can study for nationally recognised vocational qualifications in Australia. Private and community based schools offer an alternative for students looking for the right course to serve their needs.
Private colleges often specialise in one area, such as design or hospitality, and may work closely with industry to help students get their first job. Adult education and community centres may also offer nationally-recognised qualifications. Students who live too far from a private college or TAFE to study on campus can also consider online or distance learning.
There are many options besides TAFE institutions to study a tertiary qualification. It is a good idea to research your options before beginning your studies to know your possible study pathways.
Universities
Some universities, including Victoria University and RMIT, have a TAFE division and offer a range of Certificate, Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses. Individual units are also available as short courses, and these are offered as Statements of Attainment.
Distance and Online Education
Alternatively to studying a tertiary qualification on campus at university, some students take the option of studying by distance or online. This is a great option for those who face obstacles to study, such as supporting a family or living a long distance from universities. Those who study by distance can earn the same qualifications as those on campus, and will receive all lecture and class notes online.
Online providers include the Open Training and Education Network (OTEN), Cengage and Open Universities Australia.
Traineeships
Many students who are interested in learning a trade will choose to study a traineeship or apprenticeship. Choosing to undertake an apprenticeship is a way of learning skills on the job while earning a small wage at the same time. Apprenticeships can be undertaken in all sorts of fields, ranging from mechanics, to building and construction, even to hospitality and tourism, and many others.
RTOs and community centres
A Registered Training Organisation is a provider of VET qualifications, similar to a TAFE institute. RTOs are carefully monitored by the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) which measures courses to a set of standards, ensuring that all vocational education providers offer the same standard of learning to their students.
ACT
Canberra Institute of Technology
NSW
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School
Cengage Education
William Blue College of Hospitality Management
APM College of Business and Communication
Australian National College of Beauty
Australasian College of Natural Therapies
QLD
Billy Blue College of Design
Endeavour College of Natural Health
Holmes Institute
Sarina Russo Schools Australia
Southbank Institute of Technology
CATC Design School
SA
Adelaide Hospitality and Tourism School
VIC
RMIT
Victoria University (TAFE Division)