Computing and IT - VET study in computing and information technology
VET study in computing and information technology
Careers for computing and information technology VET graduates
VET graduates in this field might have a number of different career goals. In some cases, their primary career outcome will be the improvement of basic information technology skills required in a non-IT role.
More advanced graduates have a range of computing and IT career options. VET courses can lead to occupations and roles in areas such as:
- Network administration and security
- IT support
- Computer systems engineering
- Programming
- Multimedia
- Animation and visual effects
- Website design and administration
- Database design and administration
- Software development.
Graduates with higher VET qualifications are able to work independently as ICT professionals, and are eligible for associate membership of the ACS. For example, an Advanced Diploma in Computer Systems Engineering provides high level ICT, process improvement and business skills and knowledge to enable an individual to be effective in senior roles within organisations.
However, while the VET career options are broad they may not include some roles as advanced as those available to degree graduates.
Courses and specialisations
Computing and IT courses in the VET sector range from certificate I through to advanced diploma level. Certificate I, II and III courses will generally provide basic computer skills for users, rather than skills to equip students for professional or paraprofessional roles in the field.
From certificate IV level upwards, VET courses do provide skills for those who actually want to gain skills in the industry. Some common specialisations are listed below, but there may be others available.
Certificate IV specialisations
●Digital animation and visual effects ●Multimedia ●Networking ●Programming ●Support (including database administration) ●Websites
Diploma and advanced diploma specialisations
●Computing ●Information technology ●Database design and development ●Network administration ●Multimedia ●Software development ●Systems administration ●Website development ●Computer systems engineering
Getting in
Basic certificate courses will probably have no entry requirements or prerequisites — other than the ability to switch on a computer! However, diploma and advanced diplomas do have entry requirements. These range form successful Year 12 completion to a relevant certificate IV. Information technology may be a prerequisite.
Where to study
TAFE institutes and selected private institutions offer VET courses in this field. Many of these courses are part of national training packages, which means the course content is similar no matter where you take the course.
Pathways
TAFE institutes and other registered training organisations will often have arrangements with universities whereby graduates will gain entry with credit to university courses if they have successfully completed a diploma or advanced diploma in a relevant area.
For example, some private higher education providers in this field are actually associated with universities. The courses they offer are sometimes related to the university curriculum and will usually offer a pathway into a related university course.
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