Those who wish to pursue higher education will now have the opportunity to begin their journey via a new diploma pathway at the University of Newcastle.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said he was pleased to announce the seven new diplomas, which would help students begin higher education with a choice of degree destinations.
The seven new diplomas include Arts and Social Science, Business, Engineering, Built Environment, Science and Environmental Science, Information Technology and Education Studies.
Each diploma offers a combination of first-year degree courses and supported pathway courses, enabling students with academic credit to transfer to their degree of choice.
The diplomas can also harness students with academic literacy, research, and subject-specific skills that help with the transition to university studies.
Once they’ve completed a diploma, students will be guaranteed entry into a selection of undergraduate degrees with credit for the work they have done in their diploma.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Professor Mark Hoffman said the diplomas were an example of the University of Newcastle’s commitment to supporting students in the region.
“Our students have faced extraordinary challenges since the beginning of last year,” Professor Hoffman said.
“We want to remind them that there are many pathways into the University of Newcastle and many ways to succeed in their studies outside of traditional entry schemes.
“When you choose to study a diploma, you have the opportunity to be mentored and supported by passionate teachers to set you up for success.
“You can also access the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre, with dedicated academic learning support, counselling and peer support.”
Students can take a combination of on-campus face-to-face, online and blended study options and complete their diploma over 12 months of full-time study or up to two years of part-time study.
The required selection rank is lower in comparison to an undergraduate degree. However, if students do not have an ATAR, they can still gain entry based on other criteria like past study, work, or vocational experience.
Applications for Semester One 2022 are now open. For more information, visit newcastle.edu.au/diplomas.
Hayley McMahon