Certificate III in Information Technology (partial completion)

The Information Technology VET DSS program provides hands-on, entry-level training in digital systems and tech support. You’ll learn how to build and troubleshoot computers, explore networking basics, and develop skills that are in demand across almost every industry.

Whether you're interested in IT support, cybersecurity, networking, or software development, this course is a strong foundation for future study and a wide range of career paths.

• critical and creative thinking
• how to run standard diagnostic tests
• introductory programming techniques
• how to provide ICT advice
• maintenance of digital devices security
• how to evaluate cloud computing solutions and services
• to address cyber security requirements

• Programmer
• IT technician
• Help desk or technical support officer
• User support specialist
• Software or web developer

This course sets you up with essential digital skills and a solid foundation to pursue further training and career opportunities in the tech sector. After successfully completing this course, you may choose to continue your training with:

• Certificate IV in Information Technology – expand your skills in networking, support, web technologies, and cyber security
• Diploma of Information Technology – specialise in areas like cloud computing, programming, database development or business analysis
• Advanced Diploma of Information Technology – prepare for leadership or advanced technical roles within the IT industry

At university:

While this course does not provide a direct university pathway, it can provide a foundation to support future study at university with a degree in computer science, information systems, software development, or cyber security.

SWTAFE Warrnambool campus

Thursday afternoons (1pm - 5pm) during school terms.
One school holiday block training (dates to be confirmed), Monday to Friday (9am - 5pm each day). 

This course is partial completion only. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a Statement of Attainment listing the successful units completed. You may be able to use the Statement of Attainment to receive credit towards a full qualification, reducing the time and cost of further study.

Credit to ATAR score

Students undertaking this VET DSS program are eligible for credit of up to four VCE VET units on their VCE Statement of Results: two units at Unit 1-2 level and a Unit 3-4 sequence. Students may be entitled to 10% increment towards their VCE.

Study score

Students have the option to undertake scored assessment, and the study score can be fully counted as one of the student's best four studies for ATAR purposes, or will count as a fifth or sixth study increment, if it is not one of the student's four highest scores.

VCE Vocational Major

Students undertaking this VET DSS program through the VCE Vocational Major stream will need to complete a minimum of 180 nominal hours of a VET DSS program over a 2-year period.

This course is partial completion only. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a Statement of Attainment listing the successful units completed. You may be able to use the Statement of Attainment to receive credit towards a full qualification, reducing the time and cost of further study.

Any costs and fees associated with completing this course will managed directly with your school. Please contact your school for further information.

Some courses require specific resources or materials necessary for your study e.g. tools of the trade, uniform, etc. Please check with your school's VET DSS coordinator to determine resource costs applicable to you.

There are 5 steps to applying for a VET DSS program with SWTAFE:

1. Look at your options - chat with your school's VET DSS Coordinator and your parents/guardians about a program that will suit you.
2. Apply - complete a short online application form
3. Complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy Assessment online
4. Chat to our team - your SWTAFE teacher or course specialist will contact you to discuss the course in more detail and ensure the right units of study are selected for you.
5. Enrol - once your school approves your VET DSS application, you will be enrolled in the qualification at SWTAFE.