Choosing something to study after you transfer from community college or a 4 year school can seem like an impossible decision to make. The pressure is high from teachers, parents and peers and you may not yet have a clue what it is you want to do with the rest of your life. Often, there is a heavy emphasis on university degrees that may put additional pressure on you when trying to make a decision. You may have a good idea of where you want to go, but the thought of four or more years at a university before you can get there may weigh heavily on your mind. When looking at your options do not ignore the option of Technical and Further Training (TAFE) qualifications. These may prove to be a more direct route into the career you wish to follow.
TAFE qualifications are vocational training courses that fall under the National Training System and offer a myriad of different course and career options. There are TAFE colleges, often called institutes in every state in Australia. In many careers, on-the-ground experience is worth much more than a four-year degree; we take a look at just three of the career options available with a TAFE qualification to demonstrate the diversity of the courses.
Become a Ranger: Certificate in Conservation and Land Management
Certificate I in Conservation and Land Management can the first step toward becoming a Park Ranger in Australia; a popular career considering the large number of parks, conservation areas and nature reserves scattered around the country. Park rangers spend most of their time outdoors and avoid the repetitive mundane aspects of office jobs in the cities. For those who love nature, the chance to work on rehabilitation projects, protecting endangered species and always learning more about animals, plants and the cycles of nature can be the best possible future.
Designing Theatre Productions and Events: Advanced Diploma of Design for Live Production, Theatre and Events
So, you have always loved the theatre but could never see yourself on stage. Fortunately, the career options in the theatre are many, especially when it comes to design. To be a designer for theatre is to put a little piece of yourself on the stage for the audience to see and enjoy. This is a 36-month full-time course available at the Adelaide College of the Arts. On successful completion of the course, graduates have an Advanced Diploma and are qualified to work for theatres, theatre companies or concert staging companies.
Personal Trainer: Certificate IV in Fitness
Health, fitness and well-being may be crucial for you and your reason to get up in the morning. If you love the fitness industry there is no reason why you cannot make it your career. A twelve-month certificate in fitness is available from a number of different TAFE institutes both on- and off-campus. For many personal trainers, a job where they help people get and stay in shape barely feels like work at all.
When choosing your career options it is best to take a look at what you truly love to do, and find a career within that spectrum. A university may not necessarily provide the path into that career. If this is the case turning to TAFE qualifications is highly recommended. TAFE courses place far more emphasis on the vocational aspects of a diploma or certificate and may just put you on the fast-track to success.
