Sciences
A course in science will provide the industry-relevant grounding needed to enter the workforce, in areas like forensic science, biotechnology or biomedical science or pathology testing.
Swinburne has an excellent reputation in science teaching and scientific research and offers an education that offers greater access to academic staff, a focus on individual needs and all the benefits of an intimate learning environment.
Bridging Science
Certificate IV in Science
Through this course you will gain skills in the areas of mathematics, sciences, computing and communication. These skills may be needed to undertake further studies, to fulfil career aspirations or to improve employment opportunities.
Major study areas
- Mathematics and its applications
- Physics, biology, chemistry, genetics
- Introductory use of computers
- Building researching skills and investigating science-based learning resources
Laboratory Skills
Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to safely handle chemicals, use basic laboratory equipment, follow procedures, work efficiently as an organised team member and perform directed duties within a laboratory-related workplace.
Major study areas
- Laboratory practices and work organisation
- Basic biological testing
- Basic chemical testing
- Data collection and processing
- Safe work practices and procedures in laboratories
Laboratory Technology
Diploma of Laboratory Technology
This general course provides scientific and technical education with a strong emphasis on the development of a range of practical skills for the biosciences workplace. Graduates will be competent in meeting the technological and administrative demands of laboratory work.
Major study areas
The major study areas are as follows:
- Laboratory techniques and procedures
- Chemical and biological testing
- Microbiological and environmental testing
- Laboratory safety and instrumentation
- Data collection, processing and management
- Laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
- Industry regulation
Students may also complete additional studies in either biotechnology, or forensic and pathology testing.
Diploma of Laboratory Technology (specialising in Biotechnology)
This course provides scientific education with a strong emphasis on the development of sound practical skills for the biotechnology sector.
Graduates will be competent in meeting the technological and administrative demands of biosciences laboratory support work in applied research and/or process or product development.
Major study areas
- Specialised testing methodologies: tissue culture, molecular biological techniques, microbiology, chromatography, spectrophotometry
- Data analysis
- Laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
- Quality assurance and continuous improvement
- Maintaining safe working conditions
Diploma of Laboratory Technology (specialising in Forensic and Pathology Testing)
You will develop the scientific knowledge and practical skills required by people intending to work in some areas of the forensic science and pathology testing industry. Graduates will be equipped for work in government agencies, paternity/maternity testing, and health/disease-related testing and monitoring.
Major study areas
- Laboratory techniques and procedures
- Scientific photography
- Clinical chemistry
- Drugs testing
- Haematology
- Data collection, processing and management
- Laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
- Industry regulation
Environmental Monitoring and Technology
Diploma of Environmental Monitoring and Technology
The Diploma of Environmental Monitoring and Technology provides technical training across a range of industry sectors, such as:
- Environmental monitoring, sampling and field testing (eg air, odour, water, soil and noise)
- Geotechnical services
- Natural resource management
- Occupational hygiene monitoring (eg air, noise and radiation)
- Water supply and treatment, storm and wastewater management
- Solid and hazardous waste management
- Site remediation and rehabilitation
- Resource efficiency (eg energy, water and waste auditing)
Job roles targeted by this qualification include environmental officers, environmental protection officers, environmental compliance officers, environmental technicians and similar personnel employed by enterprises and Commonwealth, state/territory/local governments.