Australian Qualifications Framework

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) provides the hierarchy of educational qualifications in Australia. It is administered nationally by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Few qualifications outside the system are accepted by employers or for entry to tertiary study. The main exceptions are information technology vendor certifications and the International Baccalaureate.

Framework
AQF Level Description Qualifications Time
Level 10 Graduates at this level have systematic and critical understanding of a complex field of learning, and specialised research skills for the advancement of learning or professional practice.
  • Doctoral degree
  • 3 to 4 years
Level 9 Graduates at this level have specialised knowledge and skills for research or professional practice.
  • Master's degree (extended)
  • Master's degree (coursework)
  • Master's degree (research)
  • 3 to 4 years
  • 1 to 2 years
  • 1 to 2 years
Level 8 Graduates at this level have advanced knowledge and skills for highly skilled professional work.
  • Graduate diploma
  • Graduate certificate
  • Bachelor degree with honours
  • 1 to 2 years
  • 6 months to 1 year
  • 1 year
Level 7 Graduates at this level have broad, coherent knowledge and an academic background for professional work.
  • Bachelor degree
  • 3 to 4 years
Level 6 Graduates at this level have a broad knowledge and advanced skills for skilled professional work.
  • Associate degree
  • Advanced diploma
  • 2 years
  • 1.5 to 2 years
Level 5 Graduates at this level have specialised knowledge and skills for skilled professional work.
  • Diploma
  • 1 to 2 years
Level 4 Graduates at this level have theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for specialised skilled work.
  • Certificate IV
  • 6 months to 2 years
Level 3 Graduates at this level have theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for work.
  • Certificate III
  • 1 to 2 years
Level 2 Graduates at this level have knowledge and skills for work in a defined context.
  • Certificate II
  • 6 months to 1 year
Level 1 Graduates at this level have knowledge and skills for initial work and/or community engagement.
  • Certificate I
  • 6 months to 1 year

Read more about Australian Qualifications Framework:  Vocational Education and Training and Higher Education Sectors

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