When you are finishing school, have left school or considering a career change it is understandable to consider what job is going to pay the highest. A common question is whether TAFE or university are better for career success and income. Both TAFE and university can lead to high paying jobs depending on the career path and individual goals. TAFE focuses on practical, hands-on skills that can lead to fast entry to the workplace and a higher salary immediately. University, on the other hand, is more academically focused, courses often take longer but some jobs can have high earning potential. This article will go through in detail what TAFE and university is, the types of jobs each can lead to and how much you can earn.

woman studying on a laptop

What is TAFE?

TAFE stands for ‘Technical and Further Education’ and is a government funded training organisation that offers courses for specific industries and occupations. Studying at TAFE can lead to specialised careers and trades, including computer science, construction, youth work and dental studies. TAFE offers everything from short courses to three or four year apprenticeships.

What is university?

University is an institute of tertiary education and research where students study to achieve undergraduate degrees like bachelor’s degrees and post-graduate degrees like master’s degrees and PhDs. Courses cover everything  from humanities, business, law and science to the creative arts and engineering. Students learn through attending lectures, tutorials and writing  essays and exams. Most university courses will take a minimum of three years to complete.

classroom taking lecture notes

The difference between TAFE and university?

TAFE and university are both institutions for students to learn and work towards qualifications for a job or career. However they both offer different learning styles, career pathways, fees, entry requirements and job earning potential. TAFE offers practical skills and fast pathways to the workforce with many  courses only taking six months to a year. Short courses at TAFE can take as little as a few hours, while diplomas and associate diplomas may be two to three years of full-time study. University is a more academic type of learning with undergraduate and post-graduate degrees taking a minimum of three years full time study. A law degree from start to finish can take up to nine years to complete.

TAFE offers practical and theoretical learning with many courses like apprenticeships and certificates requiring study and hands-on practical experience. TAFE courses include trade jobs, fashion, cooking and creative pathways. Universities have a much broader range of courses with a focus on academic study, research and further study unlike TAFE’s focus on direct employment. At university, there is a leaning towards advanced study like a post-graduate degree before entering the workforce.

One of the biggest differences between TAFE and university is the fee structure. TAFE fees are not only much less than university but TAFE also offers a multitude of FREE courses that fully cover the fees of eligible students. This can have a significant impact on the choice to study at TAFE or university when taking into account the smaller financial investment of TAFE. Often with university, students are paying off their HECS (Higher Education Contribution Scheme) debt for many years after entering the workforce.

What qualifications you can receive at TAFE and university

TAFE

TAFE offers  different types of courses from entry level certificates to full apprenticeships and diplomas. Courses you can study at TAFE are:

  • Certificate I: This is a qualification that provides basic knowledge for a hobby or further study. The course duration is usually six months to one  year.
  • Certificate II: A certificate II is an entry level qualification that provides training for entry level positions or apprenticeships. Often a pre-apprenticeship will be a certificate II course. The average duration is six months to one year.
  • Certificate III: This is a nationally recognised qualification that provides skills and knowledge to work in a particular field. It is the minimum qualification to work in childcare. The course duration for a certificate III is usually between one to two years.
  • Certificate IV: This is a more advanced qualification that provides in-depth skills and knowledge of an industry. It is often required for supervisory work like training and assessment. The course duration for a certificate IV is six months to two years.
  • Diploma/Advanced diploma: A diploma or advanced diploma provides the skills and knowledge for paraprofessional  work in an area of study. At the end of a diploma, you will be highly skilled to work in an industry. The duration for a diploma is usually about one year. An advanced diploma takes about 18 months to two years.
  • Apprenticeships and traineeships: Apprenticeships and traineeships provide a pathway to a career in a particular field. It provides formal and on-the-job training and usually takes between three and four  years to complete. Apprenticeships are often a certificate III qualification.
  • Pre-apprenticeships: This course gives an insight into a specific industry without committing to a full apprenticeship. Pre-apprenticeships are usually a certificate II course.
  • Short courses: Short courses at TAFE include beauty, hospitality and work and safety. They allow you to add to your skill set and knowledge in a short period of time.
  • Online courses: TAFE offers a wide range of online courses from community service and accounting to agriculture and animal sciences.

University

University is a more theoretical type of education with a variety of courses focused on a professional career outcome. Courses at university include:

  • Undergraduate certificate: This course is for anyone wanting to go to university but did not get the ATAR required. It usually takes about six months.
  • Associate degree: Those looking  to work in professional support will  require an associate degree. It can help upskill for management roles in some industries. The duration is about one to two years.
  • Bachelor degree: This provides a standard qualification for most professions and usually takes about three to four years to complete. A bachelor degree is three years full time, but will be four years if an honours degree is completed.
  • Master’s degree: To become an expert in a field, the Master’s degree is a research project with a thesis with a duration of about one to two years.
  • Doctorate: Once completed, a doctorate degree is for professionals who want to complete a large research project in their field. The duration of a doctorate is usually about three to four years.

Professions in need of workers

When considering earning potential for a career, a significant contributor is the professions in need of workers. Vocations that have a demand for workers will increase the likelihood of employability and may dictate the type of course you choose and whether to attend TAFE or university. Jobs that have a limited number of qualified workers and are in high demand will also often pay more, which is why your study choice matters.

Approximately 33% of occupations are suffering from skilled worker shortages with the majority of these in industries such as construction, automotive, hospitality and nursing. Technician and trade skills are in the highest demand with businesses reporting that difficulty finding qualified workers had increased from 39% in 2020 to 79% in 2024. Most of the professions in need of workers require TAFE qualifications like apprenticeships or certificates, rather than university degrees.

hospital staff operating machine

Jobs from TAFE and what they pay

The jobs available from completing a TAFE qualification will vary depending on the type of course you do. Career pathways from TAFE include trades and construction, agriculture and horticulture, nursing and education, and salary ranges vary depending on the specific role. Jobs that you can do from a TAFE course and earn a high salary include:

Trades and construction

These high paying labour roles focus on construction, building and specialising in a particular trade. They usually begin with apprenticeships and certificates and have the potential to lead to some of the highest paying roles.

Civil construction manager

  • Earning potential: $130,000-$150,000
  • A civil construction manager plans and oversees large scale projects like infrastructure, building sites or treatment plants to ensure they are being run safely and within budget. They ensure each element of the project is running smoothly, coordinate workers' schedules and subcontractors, report progress to stakeholders and superiors and ensure safety codes are being met. Entry level in the civil construction industry can be gained through a TAFE course with expected earnings between $65,000 and $90,000 annually. With further study like the Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision or the Diploma of Engineering Technology (Civil), you could become a civil construction manager and earn up to $150,000 per year.
  • This course can help you towards a career as a civil construction manager:
    • Certificate III in Civil Construction: This three-year course teaches the practical skills for working in the civil construction industry. Throughout the course, you will gain knowledge on operating plant and equipment, using power tools, how to read plans and workplace safety practices. Upon completion, you will be able to work on subdivisions, bridge works, railways and infrastructure projects.

Electricians

  • Earning potential: $150,000 - $170,000
  • An electrician is a skilled tradesperson who is qualified to work with electrical components in buildings. They are in charge of installing, repairing and maintaining electrical systems and wiring in fixtures, fittings and equipment. To become an electrician you need to complete a four-year apprenticeship at TAFE which includes formal education and on-the-job training. A newly qualified electrician will usually earn about $50,000 to $60,000 per year, but with a few years experience can build up quickly to $85,000 to $105,000 annually. Electricians who choose to specialise in areas like construction or high risk environments can potentially earn up to about $170,000.
  • To become an electrician, complete a TAFE apprenticeship like this one:

Auto electrician

  • Earning potential: $125,000-$145,000
  • Auto electricians specialise in the repair and diagnosis of electrical issues in automotive vehicles from cars to heavy machinery. They test vehicle wiring, work on computer systems and diagnose any issues using special tools and diagnostic equipment. It is their role to make sure vehicles are safe to drive. An entry level auto electrician can expect to earn between $75,000 and $90,000. A top auto electrician can earn really good money by gaining experience in specialised areas, pursuing further study, and potentially starting their own business. With these points in mind, an auto electrician might earn up to $145,000.
  • An auto electrical apprenticeship is the stepping stone to working in automotive vehicle workshops or dealerships:

Other professions

Apart from trades and construction, there are a number of other jobs from TAFE study that have high wage potential. The highest paying roles include vocations in  IT and technology and human resources.

ICT manager

  • Potential earnings: $125,000 - $175,000 per year
  • An ICT manager, otherwise known as information and communication technology manager, is responsible for overseeing a business’s IT systems. They must plan, organise and coordinate every aspect of the computer and technology systems in an organisation. They solve any technical issues, maintain hardware and improve efficiency of these systems. Working in IT is one of the highest paid industries in Australia with potential earnings up to $175,000 on average. Entry level roles in IT will pay around $70,000 to $90,000.
  • To begin a career in IT and eventually become a manager, you will need a certificate in information technology:
    • Certificate III in Information Technology: The Certificate III in Information Technology gives  you the skills to become an IT specialist, help desk officer or support specialist. The course teaches you learning objectives in computers, software support and programming techniques required for a role in IT.

Human resources manager

  • Potential earnings: $110,000 - $130,000
  • As a human resources manager, you will be in charge of overseeing employees and managing any issues. This includes everything from hiring and firing staff and managing their performance to handling employee disputes.
  • Often people start out within an organisation in the human resources department and work their way up to management. To progress from an entry level role, a Diploma of Leadership and Management is recommended:
    • Diploma of Leadership and Management: A Diploma of  Leadership and Management is a qualification that equips employees with the necessary skills to move further into management roles. It helps build leadership skills and teaches how to manage people which is particularly important in a human resources managerial role.

Vet nurse

  • Potential earnings: $60,000-$80,000
  • A vet nurse is a qualified animal healthcare professional who usually works at veterinary clinics or hospitals. As a vet nurse, your responsibilities are to assist the veterinarians in surgery, administer medication, monitor vital signs, maintain and sterilise the environment and equipment.
  • To become a vet nurse, you will need a TAFE certification:
    • Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing: During this 40-week course, you will learn how to handle animals, provide nursing care, and assist in surgical procedures to equip you to work in a veterinary clinic or hospital.

Early childhood practitioner

  • Potential earnings: $85,000-$100,000
  • An early childhood practitioner is someone who works with young children either in childcare centres, kindergartens or schools. As an early childhood practitioner you play a big part in helping children with their learning and development. The role involves lots of learning through playtime, games, storytelling and music. An entry level salary for an early childhood educator is $55,000 to $65,000 per year. With further qualifications and experience, early childhood practitioners can earn up to $100,000.
  • These TAFE courses are pathways to becoming an early childhood practitioner:
    • Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care: This 12-month course prepares educators for roles in the childcare industry. Face to face instruction and practical classes help enhance confidence for working with young children and infants. The course teaches the essential skills in childhood development, health services, communication and implementing activities. It is the first step towards a career in the childcare industry.
    • Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care: This two-year course advances your skills and knowledge in the childcare sector. Develop the skills to support children's well-being, learning and development. This diploma is the ideal pathway towards becoming an early childhood director or educator.

Jobs from university and what they pay

While some university courses can result in high paying jobs, not all degrees will end up with a well paid career. In 2023, the median annual salary of an undergraduate was $71,000. Three years after graduating, the average post-graduate student may earn around $100,000. There are top paying roles available in the medical and legal fields after a significant amount of study. The most common roles and salaries from a university degree include nursing and teaching.

Registered nurse

  • Potential earnings: $80,000 - $110,000
  • Registered nurses oversee individual patient care, manage nursing staff and oversee care plans. Entry level positions once qualified usually pay around $70,000 per year. However with further experience and education, or specialising in other areas, a registered nurse can earn as much as $110,000.
  • To become a registered nurse, you will need to complete a three-year full-time Bachelor of Nursing degree at university.

Teacher

  • Potential earnings: $100,000 - $125,000
  • As a teacher, the role is to plan and deliver lessons to students, mark papers and ensure they are achieving the curriculum standards. Teachers can either work at primary or secondary schools and their wage will vary depending on the type of school and teaching specialty. Most entry level positions as teachers will earn about $70,000 to $75,000, but teachers with more experience can earn up to $125,000 eventually.
  • To become a teacher you need to complete a four-year university course, usually consisting of a relevant undergraduate teaching degree and a one-year Bachelor of Education.

Other factors to take into account when choosing a high paying job pathway

While TAFE and university courses can both lead to high paying jobs, it is important to take into account other factors that will impact income like school fees and job availability. Apart from salary, these factors will determine how successful a chosen career pathway may be.

apprentices talking to eachother

  • TAFE fees: While there are some fees associated with attending TAFE they are much less than university, with the average TAFE fees costing about $3,000 to $4,000 for full paying students. However, TAFE offers a lot of help with fees with government subsidised training like free TAFE and the Skills First program which helps students pay for courses where there is a demand for jobs. There are also apprenticeship support loans which are interest-free loans for apprentices that qualify, concessions and scholarships.
  • University fees: The cost to attend university ranges from $6,888 and $101,952 per annum depending on the course. The average bachelor’s degree costs between  $8,500 and $94,000 per year. If you wish to pursue an MBA (Master’s of Business Administration) you will be looking at around $16,240 to $91,421 per year. There is assistance with fees for qualifying students, including fee help which is a loan program that helps defer fees, or HECS (Higher Education Contribution Scheme) which defers fees for students to pay off when they are working and reach a certain income stream.
  • Employment availability: The demand for workers in certain sectors is an important factor in career and course choice. Consider aligning your education with industries that have employment availability when researching roles that are high paying.
  • Experience: Previous experience provides practical, hands-on skills that may influence the type of high paying career pathway you choose. With previous knowledge and education like a pre-apprenticeship or other certifications, you have more insight into the type of career path to choose.
  • Career path and desires: As career paths and desires can evolve over time, this may influence the next step in your career towards a high paying job. You may be seeking career advancement within the same industry or choose to follow a new passion towards a different career.

While both TAFE and university can ultimately result in a high paying career, TAFE offers the advantage of lower cost to study and quicker entry into the workforce. More jobs from TAFE courses are in demand than university courses, including construction, building, trades and IT. To find out how to start your career and land a high paying job, contact the team at TAFE Gippsland.