Qualification Levels
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) sets out what a student should be able to do once they finish their course. This means expectations of graduates’ skill levels are the same across the country.
For example, a certificate I qualification should give students basic skills for work, further learning, and living in the community. A diploma qualification should give graduates advanced skills in an area of work or learning (e.g. business, financial services or retail).
It is important that students enter into the qualification and certificate level most suitable for them to achieve a successful learning outcome. Students should also consider what qualifications may be necessary for their future career goals, entry into a particular industry and/or pathways for further education.
Study time
Orion is very flexible with the timeframe for you to complete your qualification, and where possible allow you to structure your study around the demands of your family and work commitments. There are several other factors which may determine the duration of your course and the time you will need each week to dedicate to your studies.
Some of these factors are listed below;
- The chosen delivery method i.e. online learning, classroom, workplace or via traineeship arrangements;
- The qualification level and number of units of competency included in your course;
- If workplace assessment or Vocational Placement is a requirement of your course;
- If you are studying full-time or part-time;
- If any units of competency are eligible for credit transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL);
- The skills and knowledge you have already gained through current or previous workplace experience;
- The skills and knowledge you have already gained through previous study; and
- Changes in your personal circumstances which may affect your ability to study for any period of time.
Although the duration of study varies between students, the following table can be used as a general guide to outline the expected completion times at each qualification level.
| Qualification Level | Graduate Outcomes | Certificate Level | Expected Completion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 | Graduates at this level will have specialised knowledge and skills for skilled/paraprofessional work and/or further learning. | Diploma | 1 to 2 Years |
| Level 4 | Graduates at this level will have theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for specialised and/or skilled work and/or further learning. | Certificate IV | 0.5 to 2 Years |
| Level 3 | Graduates at this level will have theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for work and/or further learning. | Certificate III | 1 to 2 Years |
| Level 2 | Graduates at this level will have knowledge and skills for work in a defined context and/or further learning. | Certificate II | 0.5 to 1 Years |
| Level 1 | Graduates at this level will have knowledge and skills for initial work, community involvement and/or further learning. | Certificate I | 0.5 to 1 Years |
At Orion, student progression is carefully monitored and a constant feedback process is in place to identify any factors which may be a barrier to your progression or course completion.
Students are expected to submit assessments at regular intervals. However, if circumstances are preventing you from completing your course within the expected timeframes, please alert us so we can assist by providing additional support and guidance.
If you are considering entering into study with Orion, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss your training needs over the phone, to answer any questions you have, or refer you to the appropriate government website for further information.
For detailed information on course level outcomes, course durations and nationally-accredited training please follow the link to the MySkills website www.myskills.gov.au
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