Certificate II in Engineering Studies

If you enjoy hands-on work, solving problems, and exploring how things work, this course is a great first step into the world of engineering.

The engineering VET DSS course gives you a strong foundation in the core principles of engineering and introduces you to the tools, techniques and technologies used across the industry.

You’ll develop practical skills and technical knowledge in areas such as mechanical engineering, electrical and electronics, robotics, and production processes. This course prepares you for further training and helps you explore a wide range of career options in one of Australia’s largest and most in-demand industries.

• basic machine processing and fabrication techniques
• workplace health and safety
• to use hand and power tools
• creating 3D sketches and drawings
• configuring and programming robotics
• computer-aided engineering drawings
• to perform computations

• Boilermaker
• Engineer
• Machinist
• Fitter + turner
• Hydraulic controls technician
• Metal fabricator

This course is a great starting point if you're considering a career in the engineering, manufacturing, or technology sectors. It gives you the foundational knowledge and practical skills that employers and training providers value when looking for an apprentice.

After completing this course, you can continue your training at South West TAFE by completing an apprenticeship in:

• Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade: qualifies you to work as a mechanical fitter, maintenance technician, or machinist in industries that involve machinery, mechanical systems, and metal components.
• Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade: leads to working as a boilermaker, fabricator, or welder in the engineering and manufacturing industries.

SWTAFE Portland campus

Thursday afternoons (1pm - 5pm) during school terms.
One week-long school holiday block training (term 2 break, dates to be confirmed), Monday to Friday (9.30am - 4.30pm each day).

Cobden Technical School Trade Training Centre*

Thursdays (10am - 2.30pm) during school terms.

Timboon P-12 Trade Training Centre*

Thursdays (10am - 2.30pm) during school terms.

*This is an auspiced training agreement where training is delivered by a third party on behalf of SWTAFE.

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.

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.