Certificate III in Pathology Collection (CRICOS course code 090550B) is a Certificate III delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 32 weeks (~7 months). This qualification prepares students for a career in pathology collection, equipping them with skills to collect blood and non-blood samples from patients in clinical settings. As an international student, choosing a CRICOS-registered course ensures you receive a quality education under Australian laws, including the ESOS Act protections. Southern Cross Education Institute (CRICOS 02934D) is a private provider with campuses in Adelaide and North Melbourne, offering hands-on training with a mandatory work component. Whether you're aiming to work in hospitals, clinics, or pathology labs, this course provides a pathway into Australia's growing healthcare sector. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), so you can trust the accuracy of the information presented here.
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Certificate III in Pathology Collection (CRICOS course code 090550B) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) offered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd. The course runs for 32 weeks (approximately 7 months) and is delivered in English. It falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (019999) and carries VET national code HLT37215. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The course includes a mandatory work component of 1 week (38 hours total), giving students real-world experience in pathology collection. Graduates are prepared for roles such as pathology collector or phlebotomist in various healthcare settings. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards.
This course provides foundational knowledge in pathology collection, covering topics such as infection control, patient communication, specimen handling, and legal/ethical considerations. Students learn to perform venipuncture and capillary blood collection, prepare samples for transport, and maintain accurate records. The curriculum aligns with industry standards and includes practical skills development. While the exact syllabus is determined by Southern Cross Education Institute, typical Certificate III programs in this field emphasize hands-on training and workplace readiness. Understanding the natural and physical sciences underpins safe and effective practice in pathology collection.
The course duration is 32 weeks (~7 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (Certificate III only) with no dual or foundation components. The study mode is typically full-time, with classes held at the provider's campuses or via scheduled sessions. Students should expect a combination of classroom theory and practical labs. The work component (1 week) is integrated into the program, providing industry placement experience.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Pathology Collection at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd are A$7,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees are A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$7,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included in this amount. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a student visa. Living costs vary by city; for example, in Adelaide, weekly rent may range from A$250-400, while in Melbourne it may be higher. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.scei.com.au. Fees shown are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change.
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements. For this course, a minimum IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent) is recommended. Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent, or demonstrate relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available through the provider for those who do not meet direct entry criteria. Contact Southern Cross Education Institute for specific admission requirements. All entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual applications.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 1 week (38 hours total, at 38 hours per week). This is an industry placement that provides practical experience in pathology collection under supervision. Work-integrated learning is a key feature of VET courses, helping students apply classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings. Placements may occur in hospitals, pathology laboratories, or collection centres. The provider arranges placement opportunities, and students must comply with workplace requirements (e.g., immunisation, background checks).
The course is delivered at two campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide, SA, and 155-161 Boundary Road, North Melbourne, VIC. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, home to over 1.3 million people and a growing student population. It offers a lower cost of living compared to other major cities, with good public transport (trams, buses) connecting to the city centre. North Melbourne is close to Melbourne's CBD, with access to trains and trams. Both campuses are located in urban areas with nearby amenities. Adelaide has over 80 CRICOS-registered providers, while Melbourne has over 300.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). While on a student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Pathology Collection at Southern Cross Education Institute:
Both Adelaide and North Melbourne offer unique advantages. Adelaide boasts a relaxed lifestyle, lower living costs, and a growing healthcare sector. North Melbourne provides proximity to Melbourne's extensive medical facilities and multicultural environment. Consider factors such as climate, transport, and part-time job opportunities. Regardless of location, this course prepares you for a career in pathology collection across Australia.
Pathology collection requires strong attention to detail, empathy, and manual dexterity. This role involves interactions with patients and medical staff, so communication skills are vital. The course includes a work placement, which can lead to employment opportunities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so compare options carefully. Ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered to access ESOS Act protections.
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Certificate III in Pathology Collection is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.