TVET: What Is It All About?

coursesmalaysia makes a case for TVET and why it can be a study option for many Malaysian students to consider.
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Not all sectors require students to obtain a bachelor’s degree before they can start working. In fact, many industries pay very well for skilled employees, hence, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) study routes should be considered desirable options after SPM.

One of the reasons to consider TVET is that those who choose TVET typically undergo shorter duration courses or certificate-level training. Each level of study awards you a certificate or diploma, which recognises your level of competence in the field of your choosing. The general duration of each training level varies between six months to two years.

Moving up

As TVET emphasises more on practical skills than theoretical knowledge, the higher you go with each level, the more you will learn. This can be very advantageous when you start working. 

Level 1 or Level 2 certificate
Obtaining either one of these typically allows you to start working in operations and production.​

Level 3 or Level 4 certificate (equivalent to a diploma)
Obtaining any one of these opens the doors for you to take on a supervisory role.

Level 5 certificate 
This prepares you for a managerial role.

Most students who wish to enter the workforce quickly to gather experience would end their studies at Level 2 or 3. For those who are quick to learn and are hardworking, this can help them get a good head start towards a lifelong career.

Getting in

Vocational training and apprenticeship programmes are offered by government bodies as well as private organisations. Most vocational courses require you to have passed SPM or hold equivalent qualifications. Minimum requirements include:

  • Passes in BM and/or English
  • Passes in mathematics and/or additional mathematics
  • Credit in relevant science, technology and other vocational and humanities subjects as required by the course.

The courses offered emphasise skills training and development which are meant to help you find work upon completing your course. However, diploma holders from local polytechnics can also apply to further their studies in local public universities provided that they meet the university’s academic requirements.

TVET courses teach you the skills to do jobs in various industries as well as include internships, industrial training, apprenticeships and placement programmes to help you secure jobs after you graduate. 

Holders of TVET qualifications can opt to pursue higher qualifications like advanced diplomas and degrees later in their careers. Indeed, the hands-on experience can even give you a benefit in the classroom – should you ever choose to return to academics.

Gaining the upper hand

As Malaysia progresses towards an industrialised economy, more people with vocational skills will be needed to build, drive and maintain the machines that power it all. Those who get the right training certifications can, therefore, look forward to a rewarding and prosperous career.

It is believed that TVET graduates will play a crucial role in Malaysia’s advancement in the near future. The Ministry of Education aims to widen its cooperation with the UK. This smart partnership centres on English language training for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) teachers in the country.