1. Vocational Education and Training courses are created by the industry for the industry
For the last six years, the Hays Global Skills Index has highlighted a growing talent gap in Australia, meaning that job seekers’ skills do not match employers’ requirements. To help bridge this gap, employers and industry groups regularly contribute to the content of VET course curriculums. It is their input that keeps courses relevant, industry-focused, and tailored to produce job-ready professionals.
2. They allow international students to study in Australia
Many international students relish the idea of studying in Australia, but high university costs can make it seem impossible. Many VET courses permit international students to enrol and provide the opportunity to study abroad at a reasonable price. And with Australia’s high educational standards, international students can feel confident that their course will provide valuable education.
3. It’s available to everybody
Whether you’re fresh out of school, an industry professional, or someone emerging from an extensive work and education break, you can enrol in VET. There are hundreds of courses available across Australia, each welcoming new students regularly.
Certificate levels are perfect for those graduating high school, while graduate certificates and diplomas are suited to degree holders or those with extensive experience. If you have been out of the education world for a while, then certificates and diplomas offer you the chance to gain the skills you need to succeed.
Find out about the courses offered by CAC here.
4. It’s flexible
With multiple enrolment points during the year, and monthly intakes available to onshore students, VET courses allow you to choose when to start. The courses adjust to the modern workplace, with its continual procedural and digital transformations. Just like you, the course does not stand still.
Many courses are also available online, meaning that you can study even if you do not have the opportunity to learn on campus.
5. It’s cheaper than a degree
In Australia, a degree can range from $15,000 to over $30,000 per year, potentially landing you with a student debt of over $100,000 depending on what course you choose. However, a vocational course could cost as little as $5,000.
6. It’s quicker than a degree
A bachelor’s degree typically takes 3 – 4 years to complete, and a master’s can take 1 – 2 years. A vocational course can be completed in 26 weeks – 2 years, depending on the level you choose. If you’re looking to gain valuable skills quickly, then a vocational course could be perfect for you.
7. It’s highly regulated and quality-assured
All VET courses are regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). This regulatory body operates under the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011 (NVETR Act). ASQA monitors Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to ensure that they adhere to national VET standards and maintain the quality and reputation of Australia’s vocational courses. ASQA is also an authority under the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000.
The Australian Government sets the standards for VET regulators, so you can be assured that your course has been checked, approved, and will provide high-quality education. And with industry and employer groups contributing to course development, you know that you are gaining highly-sought-after skills.
You can find more information about ASQA here.
8. Increased earning potential
VET graduate salaries can be higher than those of university graduates. The median full-time income for a VET graduate is $56,000, whereas the median salary for a university graduate is $54,000.
9. Be taught by the experts
VET teachers are not only educated in their field, but they also have real industry experience. Who better to teach you than a passionate professional who’s worked at the highest level? They know what the workplace looks like, keep up with the changes, and know what skills you need to gain meaningful employment.
10. Higher education pathways
Vocational courses not only serve as a route into employment but also into higher education. If you do not meet the requirements for a degree (for example), then a VET course can provide you with a qualification that will help you meet those requirements. Some vocational courses may also offer higher education credit, thereby reducing the course’s length since you have already completed some components.
11. Advance your career
Has your career slowed or come to a halt? Is there a promotion on the horizon that you’d love? Vocational training could provide you with the skills to change careers or get a leg up on your professional competition. Unlike university education, which can take years to complete and eat into your downtime, VET qualifications can be gained relatively quickly and fit around your busy work life.
So what are you waiting for? Choose your VET course today!
