VET (Vocational Education and Training) is a cost-effective, skill-based education and training programme that provides technical knowledge along with day-to-day workforce skills.
VET Courses in Australia provides the skills to help people to join the workforce for the first time, re-join the workforce after a break, upgrade skills in their chosen field, and move into a different career.
VET courses in Australia are built on a partnership between the government and industry, with expert industry councils and representatives directly handling curriculum development.
Why should a young Nepali citizen opt for a VET course in Australia?
Well, we've got you covered with this blog – from the benefits of VET courses to employment opportunities and salaries. Let's dig in!
Table of Contents
Benefits of studying VET courses in Australia:
- Cost-effective: VET courses are a simple, cost-effective way to earn relevant skills and experience that can be used on future job applications. The average cost of VET courses in Australia ranges from AUD 4000 - 22,000, depending on the level of the course.
- Direct Employment: Because of the nature of the course, vocational programmes provide students with direct employment opportunities.
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognises these courses for recognition, credit transfer, and flexible learning pathways. This means you can kickstart your professional career in Australia right after the course ends with the same benefits as a local.
- Best-in-class teachers: VET courses in Australia focus extensively on quality. The teaching staff for these courses have "industry currency" on quality, as they are well-versed in their field, armed with experience and updated in the latest developments within the sector.
- Short-term courses: Australia offers very short, precise VET programmes that range between 6 months to 2 years. In other study destinations such as the United States, the duration of these courses range between 2 - 4 years.
Interesting Facts about TAFE (Also, What is TAFE?)
- TAFE, or Technical and Further Education, is a form of vocational education and training (VET) offered by government-run institutions in Australia.
- International and domestic students can attend TAFE institutes to complete courses that range from certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, and postgraduate-level courses.
- TAFE institutions hold minimum entry requirements, making them a highly accessible option for international students.
- TAFE-certified courses improve your chances of being accepted into higher education courses as well as your employment prospects.
Top Australian Universities for VET programmes:
| University | QS World Ranking 2023 |
| University of Melbourne | #33 |
| The University of Queensland | #50 |
| University of New England, Australia | #800-1000 |
| The University of Adelaide | #109 |
VET Courses and their Career Outcome:
| Course | Duration | Career Outcome |
| Certificate I | 4 to 6 months | Competent operator |
| Certificate II | About 1 year | Advanced operator |
| Certificate III | About 1 year | Qualified tradesperson or technician |
| Certificate IV | 12 to 18 months | Supervisor |
| Diploma | 18 to 24 months | Para-professional |
| Advanced Diploma | 24 to 36 months | Junior manager |
Quick Read: Cost of studying in Australia for Nepalese students
How do VET courses differ to higher education courses?
While university or higher education courses are better known for focusing on giving theory-based information and professional career options, VET courses are traditionally considered to focus more on delivering practical and work-oriented occupational skills. There are many exceptions to this rule, however, because VET covers such a wide range of different courses and qualifications.
VET courses cover:
- Basic life skills, even training in literacy and mathematics (such as pre-vocational training or foundation studies)
- Basic vocational skills for particular occupations (such as floristry and automotive)
- Semi-professional vocational training (such as business advertising, and occupational health and safety)
- Study areas with an emphasis on application (such as viticulture, music and hospitality).
VET programmes, especially those at the diploma and advanced diploma levels, potentially leads to bachelor's degree programmes in higher education.
The majority of VET programmes are included in national training packages that are regularly updated in collaboration with relevant industry organisations. Additionally, they also follow the same curriculum, letting you to transfer your credits to a similar degree at a different organisation.
Basic Entry Requirements for VET courses:
- Language proficiency: Admission to VET courses in Australia requires a minimum IELTS band score of 5.5. Students who do not have this score can opt for an academic English language course prior to the academic year to ensure their spot in the institute.
- Academic background: Students applying for VET courses in Australia should complete their high school education.
- A valid student visa: International students should apply for a valid student visa or working holiday visa, depending upon the length of their programme.
As per the various pay review websites in Australia, the average base salary for vocational education and training professionals is around AUD 58,000 – and the highest salary can go up to AUD 120,000.
Now, that is a good ROI on your academic investment, isn't it?
If you are on a budget and want to join the workforce with a good salary, then pursuing a VET course in Australia is the perfect option for you.
Still have more questions? Some of the most frequently asked questions by Nepali students about VET courses in Australia are listed below.