Qualification Outline
22/07/2026 4:42 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Certificate IV in Pathology
Certificate IV in Pathology
HLT41812
J082
Deleted
Deleted
National Endorsed, State Implementation and Classification
Releases
| Release Version | Release Date | TGA Status | DTWD Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.00 | 14/09/2013 | Current | Approved |
Description
This qualification covers workers who undertake the collection of blood and other pathology specimens for routine and specialised testing. Workers at this level are expected to have an in depth knowledge and may work with clients with complex needs. This qualification also coversworkers that assist with the receipt and processing of pathology samples through the pre-analytical phase. Supervision may be direct, indirect or remote and must occur within organisation requirements
This qualification is suited to Australian Apprenticeship pathways.
Occupational titles for these workers may include:
Specimen collector
Specialist pathology collector
Pathology collector
Team leader / supervisor
Lab assistant
Pathology specimen receptionist
Pathology Lab Assistant Trainer
Schedule
Packaging Rules
ENTRY REQUIREMENTSTo gain entry into the HLT41812 Certificate IV in Pathology candidates must demonstrate competence through a recognised training program or recognition process, in the following (4) units of competency from HLT32612 Certificate III in Pathology:
- BSBMED301B Interpret and apply medical terminology appropriately
- HLTHIR301C Communicate and work effectively in health
- HLTIN301C Comply with infection control policies and procedures
- HLTWHS300A Contribute to WHS processes
PLUS
One of the group of units, depending on whether the work role is pathology collection or pathology assistance.
PACKAGING RULES
Ten (10) units of competency are required for award of this qualification, including:
- three (3) core units
- seven (7) elective units, including:
A wide range of elective units is available, including:
- Group A electives which must be selected for specialisation in pathology collection
- Group B electives which must be selected for specialisation in pathology assistance
- Group C electives which are recommended for culturally aware and respectful practice
- Other relevant electives listed in the qualification outline
- Units of competency to address workplace requirements and packaged at the level of this qualification or higher in Health and/or Community Services Training Packages
- Where appropriate, to address workplace requirements, up to two (2) units of competency packaged at the level of this qualification or higher in other relevant Training Packages or accredited courses where the details of those courses are available on TGA or other public listing
1. Core Units
All three (3) units must be completed.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WD166 | HLTHIR402D | Contribute to organisational effectiveness in the health industry | 40 | Unit of competency |
| D8287 | HLTHIR506C | Implement and monitor compliance with legal and ethical requirements | 30 | Unit of competency |
| D8284 | HLTHIR405B | Show leadership in health technical work | 30 | Unit of competency |
2. Group A Pathology Collection Specialisation Units
The following two (2) units must be completed for work involving a specialisation in pathology collection.
Please refer to the packaging rules for the full details of available options.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WD248 | HLTPAT410D | Collect pathology specimens other than blood for specialised testing | 100 | Unit of competency |
| WD249 | HLTPAT411D | Perform blood collection for specialised testing | 100 | Unit of competency |
3. Group B Pathology Assistance Specialisation Units
The following three (3) units must be completed for work involving a specialisation in pathology assistance.
Please refer to the packaging rules for the full details of available options.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WA722 | MSL974006A | Perform biological procedures | 120 | Unit of competency |
| WD253 | HLTPAT419C | Perform Pathology Tests | 100 | Unit of competency |
| WA672 | MSL924002A | Use laboratory application software | 60 | Unit of competency |
4. Group C Culturally Aware and Respectful Practice Units
It is recommended that one (1) or both units be completed.
Please refer to the packaging rules for the full details of available options.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D8283 | HLTHIR404D | Work effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people | 30 | Unit of competency |
| D8281 | HLTHIR403C | Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers | 30 | Unit of competency |
5. Other Relevant Elective Units
The remaining units may be chosen from the elective units listed.
Please refer to the packaging rules for the full details of available options.
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| D066 | HLT41807 | Certificate IV in Pathology | Qualification |
No information
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements
To gain entry into the HLT41812 Certificate IV in Pathology candidates must demonstrate competence through a recognised training program or recognition process, in the following (4) units of competency from HLT32607 Certificate III inPathology:
BSBMED301B Interpret and apply medical terminology appropriately
HLTHIR301C Communicate and work effectively in health
HLTIN301C Comply with infection control policies and procedures
HLTWHS300A Contribute to WHS processes
Plus one of the following group of units, depending on whether the work role is pathology collection or pathology assistance:
Pathology Collection
HLTFA311A Apply first aid
HLTPAT304D Collect specimens other than blood
HLTPAT305D Operate efficiently within a pathology and specimen collection environment
HLTPAT306D Perform blood collection
HLTPAT308D Identify and respond to clinical risks associated with pathology specimen collection
OR
Pathology Assistance
BSBCUS301B Deliver and monitor a service to customers
HLTPAT317C Operate effectively within a pathology testing environment
MSL953001A Receive and prepare samples for testing
MSL973002A Prepare working solutions
MSL973007A Perform microscopic examination
MSL973004A Perform aseptic techniques
Traineeships and Apprenticeships