Top 10 High Income Skills of 2025 (Based on Real Data)
Published 29 Apr 2024
VET Courses vs. Higher Education: Choosing the Right Path
Kristen Michaelides 
Choosing between vocational education and higher education is an important decision. Whether you’re seeking employment, have just finished high school, or are considering a career change, knowing your options for further education is vital for your future. This detailed guide compares VET courses and higher education in Australia, to help you select the route that enhances your prospects and job satisfaction.
The shifting tides of education and careers
Gone are the days when a one-size-fits-all approach to education was the norm. The traditional belief that university education is the holy grail of career success is being re-evaluated, with the modern-day workforce valuing practical skills, industry knowledge, and adaptability. With rapid technological advancements and an ever-changing economic environment, the job market now looks favourably on those who can hit the ground running with specialised skills attained through targeted education.
Understanding VET courses and their appeal
Defining Vocational Education and Training
VET courses offer practical, hands-on learning directly tied to a specific job or industry. The goal is to upskill students for employment in a particular trade or job sector. VET programs are highly flexible and cater to various industries, including healthcare, construction, hospitality, and IT.
Vet qualifications are available through TAFE and RTOs. The difference is that TAFEs are government-owned Australian institutions whereas RTOs are privately owned registered training organisations.
Common industries that offer VET courses
- Health
- Business
- Individual support
- Education and child care
- Information technology
- Horticulture
- Cyber security
- Hair and beauty
- Building and Construction
The immediate benefits of VET
There are many benefits of studying a VET course. One of the core strengths of VET is its limited eligibility criteria and immediate application. Students can acquire workplace skills quickly, often within a year or two. Additionally, VET is known for its strong industry connections, with many courses developed in partnership with employers and professional bodies to ensure relevance.
Types of VET courses
VET courses are available across various fields, catering to a variety of interests and career aspirations. These include:
- Certificates I-IV (certificate I, certificate II, certificate III and certificate IV) offer foundational to advanced skill levels in various trades and services.
- Diplomas and advanced diplomas provide higher-level technical knowledge and managerial skills suited for supervisory roles.
- Specialised courses such as short courses and skill sets target specific skills and industries, ranging from automotive and engineering to business, health services, and information technology.
This variety ensures that you can find a VET course aligned with your career goals, whether you’re entering the job market for the first time, seeking career advancement, or pivoting to a new industry.
VET course examples
VET covers a spectrum of courses designed to prepare individuals for the workforce. Some popular examples include:
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care: Perfect for those aiming for careers in early childhood education, this course offers the fundamental skills needed for entry-level roles in childcare and early education.
- Diploma of Building and Construction: For those aiming to excel in the building and construction sector, this program equips students with advanced practical skills and comprehensive knowledge via hands-on training and coursework.
- Certificate III in Hospitality: Concentrates on practical skills and operational knowledge for the service industry, preparing students for roles in event coordination, hotel management, and tourism development.
Higher education: A deeper academic journey
The education divide
High education often stands on a pedestal for its academic rigour and theoretical grounding. University degrees, such as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate, offer a comprehensive education in a specific field, typically requiring students to think critically, analyse, and innovate.
The advantages of higher education
If you want to pursue a traditional career like becoming an accountant, doctor, or high-school teacher, having a university degree is a non-negotiable entry requirement. It deepens your understanding of a discipline and hones your research and analytical skills. Additionally, higher education offers the prestige associated with academic achievement, which can be beneficial in some professional contexts.
Potential drawbacks to higher education
Despite its esteemed reputation, higher education isn’t without its critics. Rising tuition costs, growing student debt, and a sometimes theory-heavy curriculum that may not directly translate to the job market are all areas of concern. Furthermore, the rapidly evolving employment landscape calls for agility, which longer university programs may hinder.
Comparing VET and higher education head-to-head
The investment in time and money
When it comes to time and financial investment, VET often has the upper hand. The tuition fees are generally more affordable, and the shorter course durations mean you can start earning sooner. However, this doesn’t mean VET courses are less valuable than university degrees. They provide a targeted approach, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly and accumulate on-the-job experience.
However, a challenge with VET courses is the lack of funding, unlike university studies where HECS-HELP loans are available. As a result, you often need to pay the full amount upfront or arrange a payment plan to cover the course costs.
The acquisition of practical skills
VET focuses on practical application, providing students with skills that are immediately transferable to the workplace. Higher education, on the other hand, is more about theoretical learning and research. Each has its place, depending on the career trajectory you’re aiming for.
Networking and industry entry
Higher education, especially at prestigious universities, can provide a powerful network of alumni and industry professionals. VET, with its emphasis on industry partnerships, allows students to establish direct connections within their chosen field. Both networks can benefit your career, and the choice between them often comes down to personal preference and industry specifics.
Choosing your educational path
Evaluating your career goals and ambitions
Begin with a clear vision of what you want to achieve in your career. Identify the skills and qualifications that’ll position you for your ideal role. Research job markets and speak with professionals to gauge the importance of various credentials.
Reflecting on personal circumstances
Consider your current situation and how education will fit into your life. Can you commit to a full-time university program, or do part-time VET courses align better with your work and family responsibilities? Financial considerations also play a significant role. Understand the costs associated with each pathway and what the return on investment is likely to be.
Weighing up the benefits and drawbacks
Put VET and higher education side-by-side and assess how each fulfils your educational and career needs. Think about the type of learning environment in which you thrive. Do small class sizes and learning by doing suit you, or do you prefer the classroom setting that fosters discussion and debate?
Making a well-informed decision
Seeking advice and guidance
Consulting career advisors, educators, and employment experts can provide valuable insight. They can help you weigh your options, understand the current workforce demands, and provide resources for further research.
Utilise all available resources
Take the time to research the plethora of courses and educational institutions offering VET and higher education programs. Look for reviews, success stories, and job placement data to understand the quality and outcomes of the courses you’re considering.
Stay flexible
While making a firm decision is crucial, remember that life and careers are often unpredictable. Your choice of vocational path should allow for growth and change. Ensure the skills you acquire are transferable and that your educational achievements set a strong foundation for a dynamic career trajectory.
Forging a path that’s right for you
The decision between VET courses and higher education won’t be the same for everyone. It’s about finding the balance that suits your circumstances, career aspirations, and learning style. In an era where the lines between different educational pathways are blurring, what’s essential is the relevance, quality, and applicability of the knowledge and skills you acquire.
Ultimately, the right educational path is the one that brings you closer to your goals and aligns with your values. Whether you choose a VET course that offers quick entry to the workforce or a university degree that dives deep into a particular subject, make your decision confidently, knowing that you’ve weighed your options and considered all factors.
Your future success is a combination of informed choices and your proactive pursuit of excellence.
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Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) (VIC Only) CPC40120
If you are an aspiring or working tradesperson, here is your foundation for success. This is your first step towards starting your own building business and preparing for the builders registration. We understand that you could be a busy tradie by day,...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Melbourne Victoria
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Graduate Diploma in Management
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Study Method Blended, Online, Virtual
Location Canberra ACT +6
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Graduate Certificate in Management
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Study Method Blended, Online, Virtual
Location Adelaide South Australia +4
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Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (VIC Only) CPC50220
Prepare for registration as a Builder with the Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50210) Gain the skills & knowledge to run your own business Study when it suits you – online & on campus options available...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Victoria
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Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (VIC ONLY) CPC40920
This course covers common skills for the plumbing industry as well as specialist streams relevant to gasfitting, drainage, sewerage, roof drainage and more....
Study Method In-class
Location Victoria
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Building Leadership Programme (VIC ONLY) CPC40110 ,CPC502110
BAA is proudly partnered with Victoria University to offer our students higher education opportunities. Whether students are after an alternative way to gain entry into a degree, or simply want to try out a study path so they can confirm their longer-t...
Study Method In-class
Location Melbourne Victoria +3
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Certificate III in Fitness SIS30321
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Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
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Personal Trainer Course SIS30321,SIS40221
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Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
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Certificate IV in Fitness SIS40221
Take the next step in your career and gain the qualification you need to become a Personal Trainer. If you currently work in the fitness industry as a Gym or Group Fitness Instructor, elevate yourself to the next level by studying the SIS40221 Certific...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
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Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health. Naturopaths aim to treat the underlying causes of illness and disease. The c...
Study Method Blended
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Naturopath
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition)
Clinical nutritionists integrate traditional food wisdom and current scientific evidence to motivate individuals and communities to eat well and live healthier lives. The Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) is supported by a strong underpin...
Study Method Blended
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
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Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing OR Disability) (Perth Only) CHC33021
If you have a passion for helping those most in need, this qualification is one way you can utilise your knowledge for the benefit of others. Package the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) (CHC33021) to save time and gain know...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
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Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30121
If you love working with children and want to learn more about providing quality education and care in a range of environments, this course is for you. The Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) can provide you with an entry-l...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
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Certificate III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
Are you a natural when it comes to providing guidance to people? Would you like to kick start a career in Community Services? The Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) is the perfect entry-level qualification for prospective Community Servic...
Study Method Blended, In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
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Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (VIC Only) HLT31120
Our Promise We are confident in the delivery of our training. On successful completion of the course, graduates will be guaranteed a telephone interview for vacant Patient Transport Officer positions in the Non-Emergency Patient Transport division. So...
Study Method Blended
Location Melbourne Victoria
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Melbourne Only) CHC30121
Are you patient, flexible and wanting to help nurture our future generation? Our CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a course designed for entry-level into the early childhood education and care industry. As a childcare wo...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Victoria
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +4
Certificate IV in Hospitality (Melbourne Only) SIT40422
Our government-funded SIT40422 Certificate IV in Hospitality offers comprehensive training, including RSA certification, Food Handler’s certificate, bar and cocktail making, beer knowledge, espresso coffee skills, food and beverage service, an introduc...
Study Method Blended, In-class
Location Melbourne Victoria
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Complete Personal Training & Business Course SIS30321,SIS40221
AIPT has the perfect course to start your personal training business and hit the ground running with TWO nationally-recognised fitness qualifications – SIS30321 Certificate III & SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness – and access to The BSB50120 Diplo...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Anywhere
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Diploma of Community Services (Perth Only) CHC52021
The Diploma of Community Services qualification reflects the roles of community services, case management and social housing workers involved in the managing, co-ordinating and/or delivering of person-centred services to individuals, groups and communi...
Study Method In-class
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Certificate IV in Business (Perth Only) BSB40120
This qualification is suited to those working as administrators and project officers. In this role, individuals use well-developed skills and a broad knowledge base to apply solutions to a defined range of unpredictable problems and analyse information...
Study Method In-class
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