Overview 2023
This course may not be available to international students. Please see the list of distance courses (i.e. online and taken outside Australia) that are offered to international students
View archived years for this course
For years prior to 2015, please view the Course and Unit Handbook Archive
View the current year's course page
Throughout the program, you’ll acquire hands-on experience by solving real world problems using a range of technologies. With its work-based, industry-led delivery and its emphasis on applied technology, the program is a world away from traditional IT degrees. The two year (full time) duration also means that you’ll graduate faster with highly relevant work-ready skills in areas such as the Internet of Things and digital automation, digital design and 3D printing, information security and data analytics. If you’ve never considered a career in IT but love all things ‘tech’, this program could be for you.
The program is available for full-time and part-time study across all campuses in Tasmania and is delivered through a combination of online study, face-to-face classes, practical workshops and tutorials.
Completing our Associate Degree in Applied Technologies will give you:
- a pathway to a great career in exciting and rapidly evolving technologies
- practical skills to take straight into the workplace
- opportunities to advance in your chosen field
- an in-depth knowledge of industry requirements
- the skills to help you meet personal career development goals
- potential credit towards further study at the University of Tasmania
Key contacts
| Current student enrolment questions and advice | UConnect |
| Course Coordinator | Dr Brigid Morrison |
Learning Outcomes
Practical experience
Year 1
Students are exposed to authentic and engaged learning experiences designed to develop their understanding of work and the workplace. In the first year of study, students are introduced to:
- Different methods of and approaches to practice;
- How issues such as values, ethics, empathy and leadership are reflected in the workplace;
- The role of reflection and deliberative thinking in developing workplace-based knowledge, skills, attitudes and aspirations.
Students develop personal responsibility for and autonomy throughout their learning progression using various methods and approaches to professional practice with the support of academic coaches.Example projects include data-driven decision making, case studies, field work, simulated environments, design thinking etc.
Year 2
The second year of study builds on concepts of learning through practiceby introducing students to more complex learning experiences. Students will be introduced to discipline-based skills and knowledge in dynamic practice situations, including:
- Authentic and purposeful, industry-related experiences
- Concepts of managing effective relationships and communicating with others
- The development and use of adaptive leadership skills and how these skills relate to innovative and entrepreneurial practice
- The nature of responsible, accountable and reflective workplace skills
- Creative and critical thinking relevant to para-professional practice.
Students will exercise self-awareness, initiative and judgement to manage yourself and professional relationships effectively. A key feature of the course is the practical component, to provide hands-on learning which aims to enhance students’ problem solving, communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills by allowing them to ‘learn through practice’.
Industry experts have helped to develop the course and are actively involved in the delivery through teaching, case studies and virtual site visits and guest speakers. As a result, graduates will be considered ‘workplace ready’ after two years of (full-time) study
Become a Student Ambassador
Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, meet new people, inspire and help others, and developing lasting friendships and networks as a student ambassador. Our ambassadors proudly represent the University throughout Tasmania in schools, at University and community events, and support a range of recruitment and engagement activities. Though the Student Ambassador Program or STEM Outreach Team you will have many opportunities for training and professional development, experience in real-world community engagement and outreach, networking, and public speaking, plus end up with a key point of distinction on your CV.
A key feature of the course is the practical component, to provide hands-on learning which aims to enhance students’ problem solving, communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills by allowing them to ‘learn through practice’.
Industry experts have helped to develop the course and are actively involved in the delivery through teaching, case studies, virtual site visits and guest speakers. As a result, graduates will be considered ‘workplace ready’ after two years of (full-time) study.
Career outcomes
Graduation from the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies can provide an entry opportunity for those who have not worked in technologies, accelerate progression through a graduate’s present organisation, or open up new career paths and opportunities.
Specialisation - Industry Automation (on campus only)
On completion of the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies (Industry Automation) you will be able to:
- Commence employment or enhance your current employment as an automation systems technologist; or
- Articulate from the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies into another course at the University of Tasmania and gain credit subject to the receiving College's discretion. .
New to Industry Automation and never worked in the industry before?
For graduates this qualification could assist you to gain roles which could include service technician, technical consultant, systems technician, site installation technician or project support officer.
Already working in industry and want to fast track or leverage off past experience?
For graduates already working in the information and communications technology industry, the Associate degree in Applied Technologies (Industry Automation) may enable you to progress into managerial roles, leading a small team, becoming a specialist in the automation systems field.
POTENTIAL TYPES OF EMPLOYERS
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Transportation/Automotive
- Food Production and Processing
- Agri-technology
- Smart Infrastructure
- Defence Resources
- Health Care
- Green and Renewable Technologies
- Sustainable Development: water, pollution, and waste.
Specialisation - Cyber Security (on campus and off campus)
On completion of the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies (Cyber Security) you will be able to:
- Commence employment or enhance your current employment as a cybersecurity professional; or
- Articulate from the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies into another course at the University of Tasmania and gain credit subject to the receiving College's discretion.
New to Cybersecurity and never worked in the industry before?
For graduates new to Cyber Security, this qualification could assist you to gain roles which could include network analyst, industry consultant, security specialist, computer support technician, or project support officer.
Already working in industry and want to fast track or leverage off past experience?
For graduates already working in the information and communications technology industry, the Associate degree in Applied Technologies (Cyber Security) may enable you to progress into managerial roles, leading a small team, becoming a specialist in the cybersecurity field.
POTENTIAL TYPES OF EMPLOYERS
- Banks
- Local, State and Federal Government and Departments
- Consultancies
- Defence
- Finance Industry
- Telecommunication and Internet of Things
- Logistics and Supply Chains
- Agriculture
- Startups
Specialisation – Equipment Design and Technology (on campus only)
On completion of the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies (Equipment Design and Technology) you will be able to:
- Commence employment or enhance your current employment as a designer and digital fabricator; or
- Articulate from the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies into another course at the University of Tasmania and gain credit subject to the receiving College's discretion.
New to Equipment Design and never worked in the industry before?
For graduates new to Equipment Design and Technology, this qualification could assist you to gain roles which could include draftsperson, designer, digital fabrication technician (3D printing, laser-cutting), or an entrepreneur designing and fabricating your own products.
Already working in industry and want to fast track or leverage off past experience?
For graduates already working in the advanced manufacturing industry, the Associate degree in Applied Technologies (Equipment Design and Technology) may enable you to develop skills that are relevant to the shift towards digitisation of both design and fabrication processes.
POTENTIAL TYPES OF EMPLOYERS
- Agri-technology
- Food Processing
- Heavy Industry
- Mining
- Defence
- Drones
Course structure
Completion of the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies requires 200 credit points including:
- A Core (100 credit points)
- A Stream (50 credit points)
- Electives (50 credit points)
If you are a new student needing help with your initial enrolment, please contact the Future Students team. If you are a continuing student, please contact UConnect.
Industry Automation
This hands-on stream combines the core study area of Applied Technologies, such as programming principles, computer networks and designing for technology and innovation, along with electrical systems, digital control systems, sensor and sensor network and intelligent systems and robotics. These subjects are key areas across a wide range of industries. We have developed this program in consultation with industry and devised a structure that equips graduates with the precise skills and knowledge that real businesses are demanding from their employees.
The units in this specialisation can only be undertaken on campus.
Cyber Security
Fancy working in an industry that has huge growth potential and an ever-expanding scope? Keen to be spending your days protecting governments, businesses and individuals from hackers and business disruption? Our Associate Degree in Applied Technologies (Cyber Security) is exactly what you’ve been looking for.
This hands-on course combines core study areas of Applied Technologies, including programming principles, computer networks and designing for technology and innovation, along with data analytics for cyber security offensive and defensive cyber security with a capstone project applying these principles to a real-world scenario. From the get-go, you will be engaged in problem solving projects connected to issues that the cyber security industry faces on a daily basis.
Equipment Design and Technology
The Equipment Design & Technology stream has been designed through an extensive industry consultation process to ensure that graduates have the skills and knowledge required to drive innovation into the future. A focus on project-based work, some of which will be completed in partnership with industry, means that you’ll be both job-ready and highly employable.
This stream builds on the underpinning skills and knowledge gained in the core units and teaches you how to incorporate these technologies into the design and fabrication of innovative new products. You will learn how to apply Design Thinking to solve problems from the customer’s perspective and get hands-on experience in producing equipment in a real-world advanced manufacturing environment. You’ll see your designs come to life with cutting-edge equipment, such as 3D scanners, laser cutters, 3D printers and virtual/augmented reality technology. Learning to use the tools of the future means you’ll also have plenty of exciting career options to choose from.
The units in this specialisation can only be undertaken on campus. Regular attendance at the Cradle Coast campus is required.
Year 1
Year 1 Core
In this unit, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability starting with the transformations necessary for achieving the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a way that organises them into 6 logical groups. You will examine…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
| Online | 5 Week Session Jan B | ||||
In this unit, you will learn how computer networks are constructed, how they work, and how modern applications use the services provided by modern computer networks. The concept of protocol layering will be explored to learn how computer networks operate,…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit introduces the concepts of software design and development in the context of computer programming. You will learn how to design, manage, and evaluate projects that solve real-world applied technology problems through industry best practice and design methodologies. You…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
Digital innovation is transforming businesses across all sectors of the economy, through implementing new processes or upgrading existing technology. As a result, new business models in Industry 4.0 have emerged. In this unit you will be introduced to key concepts,…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAT120 Designing for Technology and Innovation
Year 1 Electives
Year 2
Year 2 Core
In this unit you will investigate approaches to design and delivery of projects in industry contexts. This will include identifying and analysing relevant concepts, tools and processes used in the formulation, delivery and management of projects. Investigations will focus on…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
This unit introduces the foundations of risk analysis, risk management, and contingency planning at an organisational level. The unit explores the foundations of risk across many industries and disciplines, examining the risk analysis process, contingency planning, business continuity and disaster…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
In this unit you will scan the horizon of emerging and disruptive technologies and be introduced to those most likely to become mainstream in the future such as Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence and Virtual and Augmented Reality. You will learn about…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
In this unit, you will work on an applied technologies project that will enable you to demonstrate problem-solving and design optimisation skills. Your discipline related project will include developing design options, carrying out a cost-benefit analysis and recommending a solution…
Credit Points: 12.5
This unit is currently unavailable.
Year 2 Electives
Stream
Cyber Security
The Stream Cyber Security requires the completion of 50 credit points comprising:
- 25 credit points at Introductory (100) level
- 25 credit points at Intermediate (200) level
Year 1
In this unit you will learn how to interpret and analyse cyber security data. You will use methodologies and reporting techniques which are useful for strengthening information and network security and proposing changes. Specifically, you will learn about cyber security…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAT119 Data Analytics for Cyber Security
This unit introduces you to the concept of information security and the legal and ethical considerations that organisations and individuals must address to implement sound information security. The unit focusses on industry best practice within the context of securing, storing,…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
Year 2
This unit introduces you to the practical approaches taken in Red Teaming – simulating aggressors in a cyber security penetration testing environment. The unit will be practical task focused and allow you to explore the penetration testing process from inception…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAT215 Offensive Cyber Security and Penetration Testing
In this unit, you will learn about the procedural nature of cyber security and the tools defined by the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP). You will analyse the effectiveness of threat and vulnerability mitigation through use of contemporary cyber…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAT219 Defensive Cyber Security and Procedures
Equipment Design
The Equipment Design stream requires the completion of 50 credit points comprising:
- 25 credit points at Introductory (100) level
- 25 credit points at Intermediate (200) level
Year 1
This unit introduces key concepts, processes and principles of industry 4.0 driven digital fabrication in a manufacturing environment. You will undertake small-scale, team-based project work to create fabricated objects that relate to a local industry, organisation or community need or…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
In this unit, you will be introduced to basic features of the design toolsets used in digital fabrication. Weekly online modules and challenges will assist you in developing the underpinning technical skills required to become proficient in 3D Computer Aided…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
Year 2
Using more advanced features of digital design toolsets, you will engage more deeply in design methods and practices by developing more complex designs. In this unit, you will specify appropriate materials and joins based on knowledge of mechanics and progressing…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAE204 Advanced Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Building on the skills and knowledge you gained in ZAE105 ‘Introduction to Fabrication’, you will extend your ability to work with additional techniques and elements of digital fabrication, engineering, manufacturing and associated industries by completing a team-based fabrication project. Applying…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
Industry Automation
The Stream Industry Automation requires the completion of 50 credit points comprising:
- 25 credit points at Introductory (100) level
- 25 credit points at Intermediate (200) level
Year 1
In this unit you will learn about the fundamentals of electrical circuits and systems. This includes studying voltage, current, impedance, electrical energy, power and resistors, inductors, capacitors, and electrical units and measurements. You will also investigate operational amplifiers, sensors and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
In this unit you will be introduced to Digital Control Systems, their applications, and the industries they are applied in. Through case studies and site visits (where possible) you will also investigate the use of digital control systems across a…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
Year 2
Intelligent Systems and Robotics, ZAT216, explores the topics of robotics, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). You will learn about intelligent systems and how they are used at a broad and introductory level. Through online learning activities and workshops, you…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAT216 Intelligent Systems and Robotics
In this unit, you will learn how sensor technologies and big data are enabling disruption for transformational change across all sectors of society. You will deploy sensors and develop the knowledge and skill to identify, install and calibrate sensors based…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
Entry requirements
For Domestic students
This Undergraduate Certificate is open to applicants from a broad range of backgrounds.
Domestic Applicants who have recently completed secondary education
- Completed the TCE (or equivalent)
Domestic Applicants with higher education study
- Completed at least one undergraduate unit (equivalent to 12.5 UTAS credit points).
Domestic Applicants with VET / TAFE study
- A completed VET Certificate III or higher
Domestic Applicants with work and life experience
If you have not successfully completed senior secondary, tertiary or TAFE/VET study, but have relevant work and life experience you can complete a personal competency statement. You may be eligible for an offer if you have work and life experiences that demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.
Prerequisites Nil
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION
If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors for special consideration, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition or disability. We can only approve applications for special consideration where we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the UTAS admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.
For International students
All international students will need to meet the minimum English Language Requirements, University General Entry Requirements and any course specific requirements such as pre-requisite subjects, if applicable.
English Language Requirements
This degree requires an IELTS (Academic) of 6.0, with no individual band less than 5.5, or a PTE Academic score of 50, with no score lower than 42 or equivalent.
For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship or prior studies in English in an approved country, evidence of an approved English language test completed within the last 2 years must be provided. See the English Language Requirements page for more information.
General Entry Requirements
Admission to undergraduate courses at the University of Tasmania requires the completion of qualifications equivalent to a 12th year of education in Australia.
Please review the equivalent undergraduate entry requirements to see the minimum requirement relevant to your country. The ATAR information for this course is located in the “For Domestic Students” section of the entry requirements on this page.
You can also meet the General Entry Requirement for this course with the following qualifications or prior studies:
- Completion of an equivalent AQF Certificate III or above
- Complete or incomplete (minimum 12.5 credit points) of previous tertiary study at Bachelor level or higher
If you do not meet the minimum requirements, we offer the Foundation Studies Program.
Course Specific Requirements
This course does not have any course specific requirements.
Credit transfer
You may be eligible for advanced standing (i.e. credit points) in this associate degree if you:
- Have completed an award such as a Diploma or Advanced Diploma at the University, from TAFE or another institution;
- Are currently studying another associate degree at the University or at another institution;
- Have completed studies towards a Bachelor degree at the University or from another institution.
Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.
Articulation
Students articulating into the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies from a completed Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Technologies will receive 50 credit points of advanced standing.
Articulation into the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies from other courses will be done in line with the University's standard application for credit process.
Please see the Recognition of Prior Learning for more information. Applications for credit can be made upon application to the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies course.
Students wishing to articulate from the Associate Degree in Applied Technologies into a University of Tasmania Bachelor program may gain credit, subject to the receiving College's discretion.
Detailed Admissions Information
Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.
Fees & scholarships
Domestic students
Cost shouldn’t get in the way of you studying.
If you’re a domestic undergraduate student, you may be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place in this course. This means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.
You may also be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.
Further information is available at Scholarships, fees and costs.
Student contributionStudent contribution amounts are charged for each unit of study. This means that how much you’ll pay will depend on which units you choose. Find out more about student contribution amounts.
Further informationDetailed fee information for domestic students is available at Scholarships, fees and costs, including additional information in relation to the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
International students
2023 Total Course Fee (international students): $52,808 AUD*.
Course cost based on a rate of $25,950 AUD per standard, full-time year of study (100 credit points).
* Please note that this is an indicative fee only.
International students
International students are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the annual rate. International students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.
Scholarships
Each year the University of Tasmania administers an estimated $7 million in scholarships to students from all walks of life, including those who have achieved high academic results; those from low socio-economic backgrounds; students with sporting ability; students undertaking overseas study; and students with a disability.
For more information on scholarships and to view the full range of scholarships available to you, head to the Scholarships website.
Additional costs
In addition to course costs, students may be subject to other costs related to study at university including:
- Text books and stationery
- Accommodation
- Student Services and Amenities Fee
How can we help?
Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.
- Domestic
- 1300 363 864
- International
- +61 3 6226 6200
- Course.Info@utas.edu.au
- Online
- Online enquiries