Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management
An ecosystem is a delicate thing. The proper care and management – and ultimate sustainability – of ecosystems is the core purpose behind the Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management.
As somebody who cares about conservation and horticulture, you’ll welcome the opportunity to contribute to the cycle of care through theoretical and practical learning in this certificate. The conservation and ecosystem management industry needs people like you with the qualifications necessary to make a difference.
This course arms you with a wide range of skills and knowledge, with the ability to specialise in an area of your choosing. Field-based instruction gives you hands-on experience and a great feel for working outdoors.
With an industry-recognised qualification in your tool belt, you could seek work in:
- Land rehabilitation
- Parks and gardens
- Government land management
- Environmental monitoring
- Project fire fighting
- Pest and weed control, and more
You might also continue to further study with the Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management, the Diploma of Horticulture or the Diploma of Landscape Design.
This course has been discontinued and is closed for new enrolments. The information on this page is for continuing students only. To discuss your study options, contact us.
Duration
1.5 years part-time (1 to 2 days per week) - VET May Intake 2023
Intakes
Wantirna (May, July, October) - View application and start dates
Study mode
- Part-time (day)

This is a nationally approved vocational course that is recognised throughout Australia.
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
This qualification provides the skills and theoretical and practical knowledge for work or further learning in the conservation and ecosystem management industry. The qualification provides for work roles encompassing a broad range of skills, or can be focused on one or more specialisations.
The training is industry focused and field-based which provides skills for outdoor workers at trade level with industry recognised certificates. On completion, students may articulate to the Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management, the Diploma of Horticulture and the Diploma of Landscape Design.
Course structure
A total of 16 units of competency must be successfully completed, made up of (2) core and (14) elective units. Select 10-14 electives from those delivered by Swinburne. 4 units may be selected from any currently endorsed Training Package or accredited course. Selected units must be relevant to job outcomes in AgriFood and related industries and must be chosen to ensure the integrity of the qualification outcome at AQF Level 3.
Units of study
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Graduates may be able to find employment as a land rehabilitation worker, parks worker, crew member for government land management and water organisations, environmental monitoring, project fire fighter, pest and weed control or outdoor team leader.
Aims and objectives
Individuals with this qualification perform a range of conservation and ecosystem management activities including, site restoration, rehabilitation and renewal and management of the rural and natural landscapes, degraded sites and marine environments. They contribute to the preservation and maintenance of wildlife and their habitat in the natural ecosystem, parks and reserves.

Graduate skills
Graduates will have the knowledge and skills to work as a crew member in the outdoor land management industry with certification in chainsaw operation, fire training, Auschem, and small (specialised) machinery.
Pathways and scholarships
- Pathways, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Fees, entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem ManagementEstimated course fees for 2023* |
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Course fee options | Full course fee | Skills First Government-subsidised place | Concession rate |
Total Cost (GST Free) | $13,290 | $5,980 | $1,196 |
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
You could be granted a Skills First government-subsidised place when you apply for this course. Check your eligibility now.
You may be entitled to apply for a fee concession if you meet the eligibility criteria.
The eligibility criteria are set by the Victorian Government and assessed by Swinburne in accordance with government directives, which are subject to change at any time.
Find out if you're eligible for a fee concession here.
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
Indicative nominal course hours: 908.
Entry requirements
How to apply
Find out more
Tel: 1300 SWINBURNE
Training Organisation Identifier (TOID): 3059