Tertiary qualification: Options for study after high school

Finished high school and wondering what’s next? Whether you want to upskill, land your dream job, or explore a personal passion, a tertiary qualification is the first step toward success.

So what’s a tertiary qualification? Simply put, it’s any formal education you pursue after high school. In Australia, this includes university degrees and vocational training. Tertiary qualifications are your gateway to diverse careers, higher salaries, and personal growth.

But with so many options out there, choosing the right path can feel overwhelming. Should you go to university? Try a TAFE course? Start an apprenticeship?

This guide breaks it all down for you. We’ll explore the different types of tertiary qualifications and how to choose the right one based on your goals. Whether it’s a university degree or hands-on vocational training, this article will help you make an informed decision.

What’s a tertiary qualification?

A tertiary qualification refers to any formal education pursued after completing high school. In Australia, this includes university degrees, vocational training programs, and other recognised qualifications.

How is it different from secondary education? Secondary education covers high school, from years 7 to 12. Tertiary education starts after that and prepares you for work or academic study. It can be academic, practical, or a mix of both, depending on the path you take.

Tertiary qualifications in Australia provide the skills and experience you need to thrive in your chosen career. Whether you want to become a nurse, builder, or business analyst, there’s a qualification tailored to your path.

Why get a tertiary qualification?

If you aim to boost your career prospects, gaining a tertiary qualification is a smart move. 

• It prepares you for your chosen career: Some professions need specific qualifications. For example, you can’t become a doctor without a medical degree. You also can’t become an electrician without the proper certification.

• It increases your earning potential: Higher qualifications often lead to higher-paying jobs. For instance, university graduates earn more than those without post-secondary education.

• It enhances your job opportunities: Employers often prefer candidates with a tertiary qualification, even for entry-level roles. It shows commitment, discipline, and a solid foundation of knowledge.

Types of tertiary qualifications in Australia

There are several types of tertiary qualifications in Australia. Understanding their differences can help you decide what suits you best.

Higher education or university degrees

University degrees focus more on academic theory. They’re ideal for professional careers in law, education, or engineering.  

Thinking of pursuing a university degree? You can start by exploring your options on Course Seeker. This platform lets you compare courses, institutions, and entry requirements across Australia. You can filter results based on course name, institution, location, or ranking.

Next, you can apply through your state or territory’s admissions centre. This includes UAC for NSW and ACT, VTAC for Victoria, or QTAC for Queensland. These centres guide you through each stage of the application process. They can help you submit your required documents and accept offers. 

If you’re still in Year 11 or 12, look into early-entry schemes to secure your place at university. You can also get scholarships based on academic merit or extracurricular achievements. Search for opportunities through university websites or directories like the Good Universities Guide. Planning ahead can help you maximise your chances of admission and financial support.

Vocational education and training (VET) qualifications

Vocational education and training (VET) qualifications focus on practical skills. TAFE institutions and private colleges offer VET qualifications. It’s your best bet if you want job-ready skills and a faster pathway into the workforce.

If you’re considering VET qualifications, a great place to begin is MySkills. It lets you explore and compare VET courses across Australia. You can review course content, check fees, and understand potential career outcomes.  

Once you’ve shortlisted a course, you can apply through the provider’s website. The application process is very straightforward. Select your course, upload the required documents, and follow the next steps.

If you want to earn while you learn, you can also pursue apprenticeships. These combine paid work with structured training. They are available across various industries, from construction to healthcare. To get started, you can reach out to Group Training Organisations in your region or search listings on platforms like Australian Apprenticeships Pathways. 

Other tertiary qualification pathways

Beyond university and VET, there are other ways to gain tertiary qualifications.

Apprenticeships and traineeships

These combine paid work with structured training. They’re common in trades, construction, aged care, and hospitality. You gain real-world experience and walk away with a nationally recognised qualification. To start, visit Australian Apprenticeships Pathways to browse roles. Or, connect with employers or Group Training Organisations.

Foundation and bridging courses

Use foundation courses as a stepping stone to meet university requirements. They help you build study habits and improve academic English for a bachelor’s degree. Look for foundation programs through university websites or via TAFE pathways. They often include guaranteed progression into certain degrees.

How to choose the right tertiary qualification

Even with all these options laid out, picking the right path can still feel tricky. Here’s how to make your decision easier.

Define your career goals

Clarifying your career direction is the first step to choosing a tertiary qualification. Start by asking yourself two critical questions: “What do I want to do?” and “Where do I see myself in five to ten years?” Reflect on your answers and write down potential industries, job types, and career paths. 

Once you’ve got a few ideas, hop on SEEK and search for job ads using keywords related to those roles. Pay close attention to the required qualifications, certifications, and common skills listed. For example, if you’re looking at digital marketing roles, you might notice that many employers ask for either a marketing degree or a diploma in communications.

Consider attending local career expos, like the National Careers and Employment Expo. University-run open days also offer opportunities to speak with students and industry professionals. Prepare questions about the qualifications they pursued and advice for someone starting out. These conversations provide real-world insights that job descriptions alone won’t reveal. 

Consider your learning style

Everyone learns differently. Choosing a study path that suits how you absorb and apply information is essential. 

• Prefer hands-on training? A VET or TAFE course might suit you better. To get a better feel for this learning environment, you can attend a local TAFE open day or sign up for a trial class. These experiences help gauge your enjoyment of the structure and teaching style.

• Like academic learning and research? If you enjoy big-picture thinking, university might be a more natural fit. Try watching sample lectures on YouTube or through university portals. These can help you see what academic learning looks like in practice.

• Need flexibility to balance work, family, and other commitments? Online or part-time study options offer greater control over your schedule. Many institutions now offer hybrid models with a mix of in-person and remote learning.

To narrow your options, make a checklist of what matters most in your ideal study environment. Think group projects, quiet independent work, access to practical placements, or flexible deadlines. This clarity can help you choose a course format that keeps you motivated and sets you up for success.

Factor in time and costs

TAFE and VET courses are often more affordable and shorter in duration. This makes them an attractive option if you want to get qualified and start working as soon as possible. In contrast, university degrees typically take longer, often three to four years. However, it can open doors to more senior roles and higher earning potential over time. 

When planning your education, it’s also important to budget carefully. Start by listing all your expected expenses. This includes tuition fees, textbooks, commuting or transport, and daily living expenses. Then, explore your eligibility for financial support options, such as:

• HECS-HELP: Allows eligible university students to defer tuition fees. Repaid through the tax system once graduates reach the income threshold.

• VET Student Loans: Covers fees for approved VET, TAFE, and private provider courses. 

• Scholarships and grants: Offer help based on academic merit or financial need. Check the Good Universities Guide for the latest scholarship opportunities. 

The link between tertiary qualification and job opportunities

Your choice of tertiary qualification impacts your long-term career trajectory. It can shape: 

• Your employability: Careers in healthcare, law, or education require a university degree. In contrast, vocational education works well in construction, hospitality, or aged care. For example, someone with a Certificate III in Individual Support can find work in aged care. However, further qualifications can open the door to supervisory roles. 

• Your earnings potential: While it’s often said that university graduates earn more, that’s not always true. Skilled tradespeople with VET qualifications often earn large incomes. They surpass university-educated peers, especially in sectors with high demand and labour shortages. 

• Your career progression: A university degree may help you move into management or specialist roles. At the same time, a VET qualification can get you into the workforce faster and build on your studies later. Align your qualifications with your long-term goals in your chosen industry.

Changing trends in the job market

As the Australian job market evolves, recent trends favour practical, skills-based education. Vocational skills are in high demand in sectors like IT, aged care, and construction. 

Employers want candidates who can hit the ground running, making VET-trained workers valuable. A Certificate III in Individual Support leads to employment in aged care facilities. A TAFE qualification in information technology leads to entry-level roles in tech support.

Another significant trend is the rise of micro-credentials. These short courses build in-demand skills without the commitment of a full qualification. They are popular in digital marketing, graphic design, and software development. 

Whether boosting your resume or changing careers, micro-credentials are flexible solutions. Platforms like Coursera and TAFE Short Courses offer various self-paced and industry-recognised options. Future-proof your skills by making more strategic decisions about your education.

Craft your ideal career with a tertiary qualification

Choosing a tertiary qualification is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It even has the potential to shape your entire career path. With the right qualifications, you can unlock job opportunities and earning potential. 

Ultimately, don’t feel pressured to follow just one route. There are countless pathways to success. Go from TAFE courses and diplomas, to bachelor’s degrees and flexible micro-credentials. Start exploring and take action towards creating the career of your dreams.  

FAQs

What does a tertiary qualification mean for career progression?

A tertiary qualification can open the door to advanced roles and leadership positions. For example, you can be an assistant educator with a diploma in early childhood education. Then, you can get a bachelor’s degree to become a qualified teacher. Eventually, you can move into centre management. 

Do I need tertiary qualifications to get a good job?

Not in every case. Many trades and creative industries value practical skills and experience. However, it can boost your competitiveness and open up broader career choices. It can even help you stand out, especially in crowded fields like business or healthcare. 

What are the tertiary qualifications employers look for?

This varies by industry. In IT, employers may value certifications and diplomas. In healthcare, a bachelor’s or postgraduate qualification is usually essential. Employers typically look for skills and qualifications that meet industry standards. Reading job ads on SEEK can help you better understand what’s relevant for your chosen career path.

Do employers recognise online degrees?

Yes, as long as they come from accredited institutions. Employers generally care more about tertiary qualifications than the delivery mode. 

Online degrees can benefit you if you’re working or have family commitments. Many now include interactive learning, group projects, and placement opportunities. Make sure the course is nationally recognised, such as CRICOS or TEQSA registered.

Can I switch pathways later? (e.g., from TAFE to university)

Absolutely. Many students start with a TAFE diploma. Later, they transition into university using credit transfer arrangements. For example, a Diploma of Nursing can lead to a Bachelor of Nursing with up to a year’s credit. 

TAFE institutions and universities build these pathway programs into their agreements. Contact your institution’s academic advisor. They can help you map your pathway and understand how much credit you can transfer.

What if I don’t know what I want to study?

Start by considering what you enjoy, what subjects interest you, and what lifestyle you’d like. Try taking a career quiz or booking a free session with a school or government career advisor. Enroll in a short course to explore subjects without long-term commitment. 

Many people change direction during their studies, so it’s okay to start small and refine your path as you go.

How do I get financial support for my studies?

Several options are available depending on your circumstances:

• HECS-HELP: A loan for eligible university students to defer tuition costs. Paid back through the tax system once they earn above the income threshold.

• VET Student Loans: Like HECS-HELP. For approved vocational courses at TAFE institutions and private colleges.

• Scholarships and bursaries: Offered by universities, community groups, and the government. You can search for these using sites like Good Universities Guide.

• Centrelink payments: If you’re a full-time student, you may be eligible for Youth Allowance or Austudy. List possible costs such as fees, materials, commuting, and living expenses. Speak with your course provider’s student services team to explore what’s available to you.