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Security and investigation courses
4 security and investigation qualifications in Australia, compared side by side: cost, duration, providers and where each one leads.
- Qualifications
- 4
on this page
- Providers
- 183
across all qualifications
Which of these is right for you?
We don't recommend one provider over another, but four things usually decide which qualification is the right one to start with.
- How much time can you give it?
- A certificate usually runs months, not years, and gets you working sooner. A degree is a multi-year commitment, but it's the only route into a registered profession like pharmacist.
- Do you want to study online, on campus, or both?
- Check each qualification's study modes below. Some are online only, some require placements or on-campus units even in a mostly online course.
- What's your entry point?
- If you're starting from school leaver or career change with no background in the field, the lowest rung on the ladder is usually the realistic start, not the top qualification.
- Which role are you aiming for?
- Some roles need one specific qualification. Others accept several. The roles section below says which qualification on this page actually gets you there.
The security and investigation qualifications
4 qualifications in this field. Each links through to cost, duration and the providers that teach it.
Certificates and diplomas
Certificate II in Security Operations
92 providersIn most states and territories this is the qualification behind a security officer licence for unarmed guarding and crowd control work, and there are no entry requirements to start it.
Certificate IIView qualification →Certificate III in Correctional Practice
12 providersThis qualification is for people who supervise and monitor offenders and detainees, and it's usually completed while working in the role rather than before starting.
Certificate IIIView qualification →Certificate III in Investigative Services
22 providersThis course prepares people to work as private investigators or inquiry agents, digging into facts about a person's character, actions or work and gathering evidence that may end up in court.
Certificate IIIView qualification →Certificate III in Security Operations
57 providersThis qualification is for licensed security officers who want to take on more responsibility, including leading a team in the field.
Certificate IIIView qualification →