Set yourself up for a career in printing with this hands-on qualification. Develop the practical skills required for work as a desktop publisher or pre-press technician.
ICP31415 Certificate III in Print Communications
Set yourself up for a career in printing with this hands on qualification. Develop the practical skills required for work as a desktop publisher or pre-press technician. The printing industry is one of the largest manufacturing industries in Australia. Worth over $23 billion and employing more than 115,000 people, the printing industry offers significant career opportunities.
This course will teach you how to prepare layouts and manipulate images and text to meet production requirements. You will learn how to edit images, select and apply type, manage digital files, and produce a basic digital print. This course will also prepare you with the skills required to produce files for printing in a number of mediums.
Graduates will be qualified to work as a desktop publisher, pre-press technician, or multimedia content author.
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 17 elective units from the list below.
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
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BSBSUS201Participate in environmentally sustainable work practicesUnit code: BSBSUS201 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to effectively measure current resource use and carry out improvements, including reducing the negative environmental impact of work practices. |
Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices | |
ICPSUP216Inspect quality against required standardsUnit code: ICPSUP216 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect quality of work against job specifications. |
Inspect quality against required standards | |
ICPSUP260Maintain a safe work environmentUnit code: ICPSUP260 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to ensure work health and safety (WHS) procedures are followed in environments where computers are predominately used, but which may include limited access to chemicals and solvents. |
Maintain a safe work environment | |
ICPSUP262Communicate in the workplaceUnit code: ICPSUP262 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to participate in clear and logical workplace communication, including both written and spoken communication. |
Communicate in the workplace |
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
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ICPDMT263Access and use the internetUnit code: ICPDMT263 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use the internet to browse and download information and includes identifying required software and security risks. |
Access and use the internet | |
ICPDMT322Edit a digital imageUnit code: ICPDMT322 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to edit and manipulate an image captured using digital equipment. |
Edit a digital image | |
ICPKNW322Develop knowledge of the printing and graphic arts industryUnit code: ICPKNW322 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work in or deal with individuals in various sectors of the printing and graphic arts industry. |
Develop knowledge of the printing and graphic arts industry | |
ICPPRN284Use colour management systemsUnit code: ICPPRN284 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and apply fundamental theory of colour including terminology, colour modes and analysis of light and colour. |
Use colour management systems | |
ICPPRN384Set up and produce basic digital printUnit code: ICPPRN384 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to set up for and produce basic digitally printed product incorporating the use of raster image processor (RIP) technology when outputting to digital devices including wide format. |
Set up and produce basic digital print | |
ICPPRN388Preflight and import complex images for digital devicesUnit code: ICPPRN388 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to confirm that digital files required for the printing process are all present, valid, correctly formatted and of the desired format to be imported into a digital device. It includes the application of preflight procedures and importation of files into raster image processors (RIPs). |
Preflight and import complex images for digital devices | |
ICPPRN389Manage digital filesUnit code: ICPPRN389 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to store and retrieve electronic files for efficient access. |
Manage digital files | |
ICPPRP211Develop a basic design conceptUnit code: ICPPRP211 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce a basic graphic design concept for a client, from assessment of the brief, to production of roughs and finished art. |
Develop a basic design concept | |
ICPPRP221Select and apply typeUnit code: ICPPRP221 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake basic typesetting tasks, including selecting required fonts, fitting, and proofing final type. |
Select and apply type | |
ICPPRP224Produce pages using a page layout applicationUnit code: ICPPRP224 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to compose pages based on a client brief using a high-end application, and covers how to arrange basic elements on a page, finalise artwork and check quality. |
Produce pages using a page layout application | |
ICPPRP225Produce graphics using a graphics applicationUnit code: ICPPRP225 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop computer-generated graphics based on a client brief, using a high-end application; and focuses on techniques required to create and manipulate visual objects on a page. |
Produce graphics using a graphics application | |
ICPPRP267Produce offset lithographic platesUnit code: ICPPRP267 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to make lithographic plates from film input. For plates with electronic input see ICPPRP452 Output complex images direct to plate or press. |
Produce offset lithographic plates | |
ICPPRP268Make photopolymer plates (flexographic)Unit code: ICPPRP268 |
Make photopolymer plates (flexographic) | |
ICPPRP284Produce PDF files for online or screen displayUnit code: ICPPRP284 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce both passive and interactive Portable Document Format (PDF) files for online or screen display. It requires individuals to prepare, create and edit PDF files and include navigation features, and manage and finalise the document. |
Produce PDF files for online or screen display | |
ICPPRP311Develop a detailed design conceptUnit code: ICPPRP311 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce a complex graphic design from a design brief. |
Develop a detailed design concept | |
ICPPRP321Produce a typographic imageUnit code: ICPPRP321 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to typeset text in various sizes and shapes and images, position typographic images correctly, and proof them for errors. |
Produce a typographic image | |
ICPPRP324Create pages using a page layout applicationUnit code: ICPPRP324 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to compose pages according to a client design brief, using a high-end application. |
Create pages using a page layout application | |
ICPPRP325Create graphics using a graphics applicationUnit code: ICPPRP325 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop graphics incorporating a range of features for cross-media publishing based on a client brief, using a high-end application. |
Create graphics using a graphics application | |
ICPPRP334Prepare an imposition format for printing processesUnit code: ICPPRP334 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create layouts and impositions for printing. It requires an individual to manually develop a lay-down sheet and imposition scheme, combine components and meet production and finishing requirements. |
Prepare an imposition format for printing processes | |
ICPPRP386Undertake digital proofingUnit code: ICPPRP386 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake digital proofing. |
Undertake digital proofing | |
ICPPRP396Generate high-end PDF filesUnit code: ICPPRP396 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to generate a high-end Portable Document Format (PDF) file. |
Generate high-end PDF files | |
ICPPRP397Transfer digital filesUnit code: ICPPRP397 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge needed to manipulate, delete and transfer digital files. |
Transfer digital files | |
ICPPRP411Undertake a complex design briefUnit code: ICPPRP411 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce advanced graphic design from negotiated design briefs to production of complex finished artwork. |
Undertake a complex design brief |
Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.
At TAFE Queensland, we understand that employers need options and flexibility in employee training. We are committed to delivering the flexible training plans you need to get the job done. Choose from workplace training, block training, drop in days, mobile training, day release, or a mix of all these options. Learn more
Campus | Apprenticeship / Traineeship | Delivery Mode
![]() The way your training is delivered. |
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Workplace
![]() Train and be assessed in your current workplace. |
DROP IN DAYS
![]() Train with a teacher at a TAFE Queensland facility without an appointment. |
BLOCK TRAINING
![]() Flexible training offered in blocks ranging from three days to six weeks. |
DAY RELEASE
![]() Weekly scheduled training at a TAFE Queensland facility, planned in advance. |
MOBILE VAN
![]() Training undertaken at your workplace with TAFE Queensland tools and equipment. |
Mixed mode
![]() A combination of two or more delivery modes. |
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South Bank | Apprenticeship |
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Eligible apprentices and trainees that meet the Queensland state funding requirements will be charged a set fee per nominal hour. These fees are calculated at a regulated rate of $1.60 per nominal hour. Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
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Learn more about university pathwaysNo matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what's right for you, get in touch. We're here to help.
This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.
If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.
To study an apprenticeship or traineeship program you must be indentured as an apprentice or trainee with your employer.
Employers need to be able to provide the necessary human and physical resources to qualify for an apprentice.
It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.
Replacement Program
This program has been replaced by ICP31420 - Certificate III in Prepress Graphic Design Production, as of 5 May 2020. Please note: a 12 month transition period, from this date, applies to enable current students to complete their study. If required, enrolment will be transitioned into the replacement qualification.
Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.
Disclaimer
All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.
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Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. Getting recognition for the skills you've gained from the workplace or previous learning means less study time for you, and getting the paper to prove you're qualified a whole lot sooner. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.
If you have read and understood the student rules, refund policy, understand your fees and payment options, have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) and checked you meet the entry requirements and selection criteria for this course, you're ready to get started.
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathways