Pathways into courses
Summary: Pathways provide opportunities to continue learning after Year 12 and can be used as alternative ways into your dream course or field of study. The links below take you to the institution’s pathway information to help you explore different pathways.
Pathway programs are a way into your dream course through alternative qualifications and can be for all types of learners.
The benefit of a pathway is that they can increase your chances of being accepted or to progress into your desired course, while also allowing you to discover your interest in a study area at your own pace. VTAC recommends adding pathways into your preference list even if you feel ready for university, as they can be a great alternative option should you not receive an offer to your dream course this year.
Pathways typically start with certificates, diplomas or foundation years to prepare students exiting school for a degree later down the track. A common way that institutions structure pathways is to offer nested programs that allow you to progress through different qualification levels without having to repeat studies. For example, you may complete a Certificate II, III or IV and then enrol in the Diploma in the same field with credit applied for the studies already completed.
Even if you are graduating without an ATAR, you can still apply for courses listed on VTAC. We have over 500 courses with no prerequisities, majority of these also do not require an ATAR. To search for these courses, navigate to the VCE prerequisite explorer on CourseSearch, tick courses 'that have no prerequisites'. You can filter further by study area, qualification level and institution.
Reasons you may consider pathway programs:
- You’re unsure of your next step after Year 12 and want to learn more in a chosen field without committing to the time and financial cost of a university degree.
- You know your dream course, but you didn’t receive an offer, so you want to use a pathway as an alternative option to pursue your dream career.
- You may want to continue learning after Year 12, but may not be interested in university as a next step.
- You’re returning to learning and want a balanced transition into tertiary education.
- You’re an international student who does not currently meet the entry criteria (such as English language requirements) of your desired course and need to build up your achievements to be admitted. These preparatory programs are often called “bridging courses”.
Examples of Pathways
Pathways will differ slightly for each course at each institution. We recommend speaking to your chosen institutions directly as they will be able to advise you of the correct pathway to your dream course.
In many cases, you may be eligible for course credit from your previous studies, for example at some institutions a Diploma may give you credit for the first year of university, meaning you could go straight into the second year of a degree.
Below are some examples of pathways for different areas of study. However, there are many more pathways than demonstrated in these examples.
Institution information
Every institution is different and offers pathway opportunities. For information on pathway options, see the institution's pathway information in the table below. To better understand which pathway could be right for you or your chosen field of study, speak to the institution directly.
| Institution | Institutional policy |
|---|---|
| Australasian College of Health and Wellness |
Study PathwaysThe Australasian College of Health and Wellness supports diverse learning journeys, ensuring that students who are committed to proving their eligibility to succeed in this industry will have a study pathway available. Suppose you are interested in studying our Bachelor of Applied Health Science (Clinical Aesthetics), but do not meet the academic entry requirements. In that case, you may still qualify for entry into one of our Undergraduate Certificates. Successful completion of this course can be used to demonstrate your eligibility for the bachelor's degree, and since the Undergraduate Certificates are comprised of units from the Bachelor of Applied Health Science (Clinical Aesthetics), you will be eligible to transfer those credits. |
| Australian Catholic University |
Pathways and entry programsThere is more than one way to gain entry into your dream course. We offer a range of admission pathways to help you achieve your goals. Whether you don't meet the entry requirements, haven't completed Year 12, or want to return to study after years in the workforce or raising a family - we have a range of options for you to explore. We also offer a range of entry schemes including:
Use our Pathway Finder to discover which courses have relevant pathways in your study areas of interest. |
| Charles Sturt University |
Enabling CoursesCSU offers some general undergraduate degrees, providing another pathway to more specific studies. Due to the flexible program structure, you can choose your subjects to suit your own interests. These broad-based degrees generally have lower admission requirements, so they can provide a great pathway if you miss out on a place in your preferred course. They are:
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Combined qualificationsCSU has partnerships with TAFEs across Australia, offering programs that combine TAFE and CSU study giving you a nationally recognised qualification. |
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| Deakin University |
Pathways to DeakinFinding a route to university doesn't have to be difficult. Deakin has a range of options to suit all types of circumstances, so whether you're a Year 12 student, moving from TAFE, or re-entering education, you can find a pathway to your dream course. If you already know which course you'd like to study, take advantage of Deakin's pathways finder tool. All you need to do is select your chosen course and your student type, enter your ATAR (if you're a current or recent Year 12 student), and you'll gain all the information you need about your routes to study. Deakin University students come from all walks of life. If you have significant and relevant work experience you may be able to use this to gain entry to our courses. If you want to discuss your options please contact our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888. |
| Federation University Australia |
PathwaysPathways are designed for students who are ready to commence study – but need a little extra assistance to get there. So, whether your goal is to take up degree-level studies, or to improve your educational level to enhance your day to day life or employment opportunities, you will find a pathway course that is right for you. |
Foundation Access Studies (FAST) programFAST is a single semester program designed to teach you how to study effectively, including how to write for academic purposes, research, use university systems and how to apply all of these skills to your study. When you successfully complete FAST, you will be ready to undertake degree level study at Federation University and will be guaranteed a place in one of our undergraduate degrees. FAST also offers an elective Maths course for students who want to study an Engineering degree. Successful completion of the Introduction to Technical Maths course satisfies the entry requirements to apply for an Engineering degree. |
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| Holmesglen |
PathwaysAt Holmesglen there are many pathways to your career. Our wide range of qualifications give you options, support, and a clear direction for your study journey. Completing a certificate can provide a pathway to diploma and degree programs. Whether you want to launch into a new career, upskill to advance your current career, or return to the workforce, our study pathways are designed to help you achieve your goals. |
| La Trobe University |
Bridging courses and entry programsLa Trobe University offers courses and programs to help you meet tertiary entry requirements. The online Tertiary Preparation Program (TPP) is designed for those seeking a pathway to university who may not have completed formal schooling. You will gain strong foundation skills that will allow you to learn and prepare for University, specifically an academic skill-set, study confidence, decision making skills, and a pathway to continuing education. This is a non-award program, however you will receive an academic transcript. Successful completion of the program supports entry into select undergraduate courses at La Trobe University. This program is 100% free and online. |
Pathways from TAFE and other VET providersAt La Trobe, there’s more than one way into uni. Start your studies at one of our TAFE and VET partner institutes to gain direct or guaranteed entry into your preferred Bachelor’s degree at La Trobe. With a VET or TAFE pathway, you can complete a certificate at a TAFE or VET for more practical learning, and then transfer into a range of Bachelor’s degrees at La Trobe. You could also be eligible for advanced standing (course credit) for any studies you’ve already completed towards your preferred course at La Trobe. If you’re interested in a VET or TAFE course as a pathway into La Trobe, make sure to check if there are any additional requirements. |
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La Trobe College Australia Diploma PathwayLa Trobe College Australia is the preferred pathway provider of La Trobe University. Based on the Melbourne campus located in Bundoora, La Trobe College Australia offers a variety of diplomas leading to bachelor's degrees at La Trobe University. Diploma programs consist of units similar to those offered in the first year of a degree at La Trobe University. Students who progress from a diploma to a bachelor's degree receive up to one year of credit. Choose from study areas including; health sciences, bioscience, engineering, media and communication, business, information technology, psychology, cybersecurity, and business analytics. A wide range of academic and welfare support services are available to students, including student learning support, peer assistance and counseling. Class sizes are small and conducted in a nurturing and supportive environment. We are based on campus so you get that university experience from day one and have access to many university facilities while undertaking our pathway program. |
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| Monash University |
Entry pathwaysThere's more than one way to become a Monash student. If your goal is to get a degree and use it to improve yourself, your community or the lives of others, Monash is the place for you. Most of our undergraduate domestic students enter via direct entry. If you've completed Year 12, the IB, or an equivalent qualification in Australia, and meet all the entry requirements, then you are eligible to apply. If you don't meet the requirements for direct entry, consider these options. |
| RMIT University |
Pathways into coursesAs the largest dual-sector university in Australia, RMIT University offers lots of ways for you to gain entry into your dream degree – no matter what ATAR you receive.
Know where you’re headed? Search for your dream degree using our Pathways Finder tool and discover all the pathways that lead there. If you have any questions about pathways, please contact Study@RMIT. Our advisors are available from 8.30am-5.30pm, Monday to Friday, with extended hours during the Change of Preference period. |
| Swinburne University of Technology |
PathwaysAs a dual-sector university, Swinburne offers multiple pathways to help you gain entry into your preferred degree, regardless of your ATAR. You can start by completing a practical certificate or diploma through our vocational education programs, gaining valuable hands-on skills. Upon successful completion, you can then progress into your chosen bachelor degree. Depending on how closely your completed study matches your destination degree, you may also receive academic credit that allows you to complete your degree sooner. Swinburne also offers packaged pathways, which secure your place in the bachelor degree once you complete your TAFE qualification. This means you don’t need to reapply to transfer after finishing your vocational studies. Packaged pathways can be selected through your VTAC preferences. To explore your options, use the Swinburne Pathways Finder tool to find the best route to your chosen degree. |
| The Gordon |
Many Gordon courses offer pathways to higher qualifications within The Gordon and in some cases, to university degrees. Your Gordon course may provide credit points which could reduce further study time. |
| Torrens University Australia |
PathwaysAt Torrens University Australia, we know everyone’s different. Our job is to help students explore their strengths and kickstart their careers. Since we value passionate humans, not perfect performance, we’ve removed ATAR as our primary entry requirement – because we know it’s passion that unlocks potential. |
| Victoria University |
PathwaysThere are many ways you can start and continue your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so you may start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study. Our pathways are designed to suit all types of students. Whether you've just finished secondary school, want to develop new skills, are looking for career advancement or want to change career direction, we can offer you a way forward. |