Courses Explained

Here’s a quick guide to what each achievement level means:

Certificate I
This is an entry level qualification where you’ll learn basic skills and do routine tasks that get you ‘job ready’.  Entry is normally a Year 10 (C Grade) or similar.  Study duration is commonly 6 months.

Certificate II
Another entry level qualification.  You’ll develop your skills and gain operational knowledge to solve a range of predictable problems.  Study duration is commonly 6 months.

Certificate III
Usually follows a Certificate II.  This Certificate lets you develop additional skills and theoretical knowledge to solve a range of problems and is usually required for recognition as a tradesperson.  Study duration is commonly 6 months.

Certificate IV
This gives you a broad knowledge in your chosen industry and prepares you to take on limited responsibility for others, usually in a supervisory role.  Study duration is commonly 12 months.

Diploma
This prepares you to work independently and solve practical theoretical issues to a substantial depth in technical or management situations.  Study duration is commonly 6-12 months after Certificate IV.  Many Diplomas can lead to University entry.

Advanced Diploma
Our highest qualification where you’ll develop a very broad range and depth of practical, theoretical and creative skills.  Study duration is commonly 6-12 months after Diploma.  Advanced Diplomas generally lead to University entry.

Links to University
Many students begin their training pathway at West Coast Institute of Training before progressing to University to obtain credit for the work they’ve done – saving time and money on HELP fees.

In turn, many University graduates rejoin their training pathway at West Coast so they can obtain hands-on practical skills they need to help change or advance their career.