National completion rates are slowly rising, with the percentage of people likely to complete publicly funded training rising from 32.1% for those who enrolled in 2009, to 35.8% in 2012. The results are also positive for young students (aged 25 years and under) in full-time study with no prior post-school qualification, with completion rates rising from 43.7% to 46.4% over the same period.
The report published by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), estimates qualification completion rates for publicly funded vocational education and training (VET) qualifications in Australia.
“One of the clear takeaways from these data is that the higher the level of VET qualification that someone undertakes, the higher the likelihood of it being completed,” said Ms Sue Fergusson, General Manager, Statistics, NCVER.
For students undertaking diploma and above level qualifications, 44.3% are likely to complete, with 44.3% likely to complete certificate IV, and 40% likely to complete certificate III.
Young students in full-time study with no prior post-school qualification enrolled in certificate III (58.4%) are most likely to finish their training.
The report suggests that an individual’s field of study has an impact, with qualifications in education (62.4%), natural and physical sciences (52.8%), and society and culture (46.9%) having the highest completion rates.
Students undertaking general education courses, such as literacy, numeracy and employment skills (19.2%), architecture and building (25.9%) and food, hospitality and personal services (27.2%) have the lowest likelihood of completion.
This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Department of Industry.
Australian vocational education and training statistics: the likelihood of completing a VET qualification 2009-12 is available from www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2743.html
Media contact: Rebecca Farrell, Media and Communications Officer, P 08 8230 8418 or 0407 608 409