Whether you’re getting your start in the security industry or hoping to further your career in this sector, a course in security can provide you with a range of job opportunities. You might want to work as a security guard or crowd controller or specialise in an area such as correctional services. You may also decide to use your experience in roles such as security consultant or security manager. Whatever pathway you decide to follow, this field offers many exciting and rewarding opportunities. If you’re not sure which qualification would be best for you, here are some of the most popular choices for further study in security:

Certificate II in Security Operations

The Certificate II in Security Operations will allow you to work in a range of industries as a licenced security guard (unarmed). This course prepares you to provide security services while protecting yourself, patrons and the general public. You’ll cover topics including screening people and personal effects, conducting patrols, crowd control, managing intoxicated people, removing persons from premises, first aid and basic self defence. You might also be employed in roles such as security officer or CCTV operator.

Certificate III in Security Operations

If you’re already working as a security guard or security officer, a Certificate III in Security Operations can increase your career opportunities. This course is designed to develop specialist skills in areas such as cash-in-transit or use of weapons and restraints. You’ll also cover topics such as leadership, conflict management and negotiation skills. You may choose to study topics that support additional licencing requirements such as firearms, batons and handcuffs, working with canines, cash-in-transit, or control room operations.

Certificate IV in Correctional Practice

A Certificate IV in Correctional Practice is a great way to advance your career in corrective services. If you’re already working as a prison guard or correctional service officer, this course will allow you to develop your skills in an area of interest such as dog handling, case management, supervision and leadership, community or emergency response. You’ll also cover leadership and negotiation skills and may become employed in positions such as correctional case manager or correctional supervisor.

Certificate IV in Security Management

The Certificate IV in Security Management is the qualification you need to move into a supervisory or managerial role in the security industry. You’ll learn to assess security risks and provide advice on security needs. You may be employed in positions such as security consultant or security manager. The Certificate IV in Security Management also explores topics such as workplace communication, safety, time management and customer service.

Diploma of Security Risk Management

If you’re interested in branching into a new area of security, a Diploma of Security Risk Management could be a good choice for you. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to develop security risk management plans for your organisation or for clients. You might be employed in roles such as security consultant or security manager. The Diploma of Security Risk Management also looks at topics such as security operations, team management and occupational health and safety.

Written by Jodie Magrath
Jodie Magrath
Jodie is a freelance writer with a background in communication and journalism. She’s spent almost 20 years working in roles such as Special Projects Writer and Publications Officer.