When you think of TAFE courses, you might picture a future in an important trade like plumbing or carpentry. But there are hundreds more jobs you can train for at TAFE - some you may never have known were an option!
Your dream job might be waiting for you just around the corner - let’s take a look at 8 career pathways for international students at TAFE.
professional mechanical engineer
Course example: TAFE SA offers an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering, which is also a packaged program with Flinders University and Adelaide University
Course length: 2 years full-time
Estimated salary: The average annual salary for Mechanical Technician jobs ranges from $80,000 to $85,000.
Paraprofessional mechanical engineers help turn an engineer’s plans into working machines. In this role, you might design parts using CAD software, install and test equipment, or troubleshoot problems on a factory floor. Graduates can further their career by enrolling in a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Honours) at Flinders University or Adelaide University, with guaranteed entry and credit for what you’ve already studied, as long as you meet the conditions.
Dental technician
Course example: TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Dental Technology.
Course length: 2 years full-time
Estimated salary: Dental technicians can earn approximately $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Did you know you can work in dentistry without becoming a dentist? Dental technicians work behind the scenes, creating everything from dentures and crowns to mouthguards and orthodontic appliances. It's a career that combines creativity, science and attention to detail, using specialised equipment and digital technology to make custom dental products. If you enjoy working with your hands and solving problems, this could be a great fit!
Computer animator
Course example: TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Screen and Media
Course length: 1 year full-time
Estimated salary: The average annual salary for animators ranges from $80,000 to $90,000.
If you’re a creative person who’s interested in a role with a technical side, why not try animation? You’ll be tutored in a wide range of content creation applications at our multi-disciplinary Adelaide College of the Arts and Start career in the Game and Visual Effects in-demand industries.
PASTRY CHEF
Course example: TAFE SA offers the Certificate III in Patisserie
Course length: 1 year full time
Estimated salary: Pastry chefs in Australia typically earn around $60,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Have a sweet tooth and a creative streak? A career as a pastry chef could be for you! Pastry chefs create everything from delicate desserts and pastries to elaborate cakes and chocolate creations, working in bakeries, hotels, restaurants and cafés. You'll learn practical skills in baking, decorating and food presentation, combining creativity with precision. If you love working with your hands and seeing people enjoy your creations, this could be a delicious career choice!
Park ranger
Course example: Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management at TAFE SA
Course length: 1 year full-time
Estimated salary: The average annual salary for Park Ranger jobs in South Australia ranges from $65,000 to $75,000.
Park rangers protect national parks and reserves by tracking wildlife and controlling pests, running tours and helping to manage fires should they arise. You don’t need a qualification to apply, but it can be a competitive field, so a diploma could help you stand out amongst the crowd. If you love being outdoors and talking to people from all walks of life, this could be the perfect job for you!
Landscape designer
Course example: TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Landscape Design
Course length: 92 weeks, including holidays (approximately 1 year and 9 months)
Estimated salary: Landscape designers can earn approximately $65,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Love nature but also have a creative side? Landscape designers plan outdoor spaces, from beautiful gardens and public parks to commercial developments. You'll learn how to choose plants, create designs using computer software and bring outdoor spaces to life. It's a great career for someone who enjoys combining creativity, practical skills and sustainability, with opportunities to work on projects that make cities greener and more enjoyable.
Event coordinator
Course example: TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Event Management
Course length: 12 months full-time
Estimated salary: Event coordinator roles average about $62,000 to $85,000 per year.
Event coordinators are a busy bunch, planning everything from intimate dinners to large conferences, parties, networking events and weddings. If you love bringing people together and can stay calm under pressure, this could be the perfect job for you. Studying the Diploma also gives you a pathway to a Bachelor of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management with one year of credit.
Nurse
Course example: TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Nursing
Course length: 21 months full-time
Estimated salary: Enrolled nurses average about $66,000 to $71,000 per year.
Enrolled nurses are important parts of the healthcare system, caring for patients in hospitals and aged care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Nursing courses at TAFE include clinical placements, so you’ll gain experience in the real world before you graduate.
This course is available as a University Packaged Program, allowing you to accept a joint packaged offer with Adelaide University. Upon successful completion of TAFE SA qualification, you’ll be eligible for a guaranteed entry into a nominated University Program.
There are so many career options out there, and there are plenty of pathways to your dream job, not just university. If one of these careers caught your eye, check out how to enrol on the TAFE SA website.
