How to Compare Victorian TAFE Courses

When it comes to higher education opportunities, Victorians are spoilt for choice. But with so much on offer, choosing the right TAFE course can be daunting.

You may be wondering, what career is right for me? Or perhaps you’ve already decided on a career path and need a little help choosing specific courses.

This article will help you compare TAFE courses in Melbourne. We’ll discuss how to choose between providers of Victorian TAFE courses, and even the possibility of doing TAFE courses free.

What career is right for me?

The Australian government predicts that millenials today will be in their late 60s and early 70s before they can retire. Considering how long this generation will have to work, it’s never been more important to choose a career path you love.

You may already have some idea of things you’d like to do for work. But if you haven’t, there are plenty of resources that can help you narrow the field.

Try the Job Outlook Career Quiz, which helps you clarify what your passions and skills are and where they could lead. Alternatively, talk to a jobs counsellor at your school or at a TAFE in your local area.

Kangan Institute provides support to people who are trying to choose a career path. This Victorian TAFE provider offers career counselling, with professional career advisors, who can help you choose the right path.

When choosing your career, you’ll have to think about the practical side of your passions and interests. You’ll have to consider whether a job in your chosen area is viable, and what skills you’ll need. Go to Job Outlook to explore careers, compare salaries, and see growth predictions for that industry.

Comparing TAFE courses in Melbourne

Once you’ve got an idea of what you want to do with yourself, it’s time to start looking at courses. The Victorian Skills Gateway is an excellent tool which allows you to look up and compare TAFE courses in Melbourne.

For example, if you’re interested in hairdressing, their search tool will highlight the various types of hairdressing course that you can do, from certificates to diplomas. Results include related qualifications in similar areas like salon management and beauty therapy.

Next, use the tool to select two or more courses and compare them. You’ll see the difference in course fees, government subsidies, duration, and whether there are any entry level requirements.

Choosing a provider

Once you’ve asked and answered questions like ‘which career is right for me’ and ‘which course do I want to do’, you’ll need to choose a provider. Victorian Skills Gateway will also give you a big list of providers for the courses that you want to do.

Choosing a provider can be one of the hardest decisions to make. While all providers will give you the same qualification, how do you know which will give you the best training and experience?

When choosing a course provider, compare the following differences:

• Time of Day: At what time of day do you want to study? E.g. If you already have a job, you may need to do night classes.
• Costing: Providers range from public to private. Even though the course is the same, the fees will be different.
• Government subsidies: Check to see if your provider has government subsidies. This will help you save money on your studies.
• Location: Choose a location that is convenient for you, keeping in mind your pre-existing commitments like work and family.
• Flexibility: Does the course offer the possibility of studying online or taking fewer units? Flexibility helps you fit your studies into your life.