Getting into university mightn't always go as expected. For students who haven't met the traditional entry requirements, foundation studies and bridging courses offer a great alternative. These courses provide academic skills that help students in university-level study. Here's our guide.
What Are Foundation Studies and Bridging Courses?
Foundation studies and bridging courses are programs designed to prepare students for a university-level education. They're an alternative pathway for students not meeting the academic requirements for direct admission into undergraduate studies.
Foundation Studies
Foundation studies are typically for international students or those who need extra academic preparation before entering university.
These programs teach academic skills, including English proficiency, research methods, and subject-specific knowledge.
✅ Key Features of Foundation Studies
- Typically 6–12 months in duration.
- Cover essential subjects like Mathematics, Science, and English.
- Directly link to specific bachelor's degree programs, guaranteeing progression upon successful completion.
For example, the University of Sydney Foundation Programs offers STEM, Business, and Arts streams to prepare students for their chosen courses.
For particular art or design courses, however, a portfolio may be preferred over bridging courses.
Bridging Courses
Bridging courses are typically shorter than foundation studies and are designed to help students meet the specific entry requirements for university degrees.
They typically focus on subjects or skills like Mathematics, Chemistry, academic writing, etc.
✅ Key Features of Bridging Courses
- Typically, it lasts a few weeks to a few months.
- Help students meet prerequisite requirements for specific degrees.
- Available both online and on-campus.
Griffith University's briding programs, for example, offer pathways to students who don't meet the prerequisites in Math or English for their Health Science and Engineering courses.
Both foundation studies and bridging courses are essential for students who may otherwise struggle to access university education.
Tertiary Preparation Programs
eTertiary preparation programs are for domestic students who didn't achieve the required ATAR or are returning to studies after a gap. These programs will typically focus on building academic skills needed for higher education.
✅ Features of Tertiary Preparation Programs
- Offered by universities and TAFE institutions.
- Duration: 6–12 months.
- Includes support for improving research skills, academic writing, and time management.
The UNSW University Preparation Program (UPP) provides a direct pathway into various degrees and is designed for students who don't meet the standard ATAR eligibility criteria.
Equity-Based Pathways
Equity-based pathways are preparation programs for students from low-SES schools, regional areas, or those facing barriers to education.
✅ Key Features of Equity-Based Pathways
- Additional academic and financial support.
- Focus on ensuring equitable access to higher education.
For example, the Western Sydney University Pathway Program provides tailored support for disadvantaged students.
These courses and programs offer another way for students to access university, regardless of their background, current academic qualifications, or ATAR.
There are also STAT and special-entry pathways that students eligible for equity-based pathways could consider.
Benefits of Foundation and Bridging Courses
Foundation studies, bridging courses, or other alternative pathways can offer a huge advantage to students who would have otherwise seen the door to university slam directly in their faces.
The programs are designed to fill the gaps in students' knowledge, build their confidence, and prepare them for academic success.
Let's look at some of the main areas these pathways can help.
1. Academic Skill Development
Some programs and schemes will allow potential university students to bridge the gap between their academic skills and those required for university education, whether due to a prolonged absence from education or a disappointing ATAR.
Key Skills Gained:
- Essay writing and academic research techniques.
- Time management and effective study habits.
- Enhanced understanding of subject content in areas like English or Mathematics.
The TAFE Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC) teaches critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are often required during university courses.
2. Alternative Pathway to University
Both foundation studies and bridging courses are great alternative pathways for students who didn't achieve the required ATAR or subject prerequisites. They open doors to many undergraduate degrees.
The Monash Foundation Year, for example, guarantees entry into many of the university's undergraduate programs for those who weren't directly admitted.
3. Confidence Building
A disappointing ATAR or lack of requirements for a university course can shatter a prospective student's confidence. Those expected to get a high ATAR may be considered for early entry, but many others won't be as lucky.
For students unsure about being ready for university, these courses and programs allow them to brush up on academic skills, fill in any subject-specific knowledge gaps, and help them build up their confidence before starting a university course.
They can start the first day of their course feeling fully prepared and confident, knowing they won't be playing catch up with their peers.
4. Flexible Learning Options
There are online or on-campus programs, meaning that students preparing for a university-level course needn't worry too much about their personal circumstances.
This is particularly useful for prospective students with work or family commitments since they aren't going directly to university from Year 12.
Online access also means that students in regional areas can participate without having to relocate, which can often be one of their major barriers to study.
5. Preparation for Specific Career Goals
No matter the chosen degree or career path, these bridging courses can help students gain the necessary skills.
For example, Health Science or Engineering students can use these courses to meet subject-specific prerequisites like those in Chemistry or Advanced Mathematics.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
While most of these courses and programs are open to anyone who needs them, some are better suited than others and are designed to offer the smoothest transition into university education.
Before you start, always check who the courses are designed for and whether you can enrol on them.
Typically, foundation studies and bridging courses are open to a wide range of students, including:
- Domestic students who didn’t achieve the required ATAR for their desired university course.
- International students needing to meet Australian academic standards.
- Mature-age applicants returning to study after a break.
- Students who need to fulfil specific subject prerequisites for their chosen degree (e.g., Maths, Physics, or English).
Every program is different, but the majority of foundation and bridging courses will require the following:
Key Documents
- Academic Transcripts: Proof of Year 11 or Year 12 performance for eligibility.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Required for international students, typically through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Personal Statement: Highlighting academic goals and reasons for enrolling in the program.
- Letters of Recommendation: From school teachers or principals (if applicable).
Specific Requirements
- For bridging courses, students may need to demonstrate a basic level of proficiency in the subject area they wish to improve.
- Equity-based programs may require evidence of financial hardship or regional status.
When applying to these courses or programs, carefully research them and ensure they align with your academic goals.
Once you have programs in mind, you can apply directly through a university's online portal or through state-based platforms like UAC, VTAC, or QTAC.
Please complete and submit all the supporting documents within the deadlines. Generally, foundation studies applications close a few months before the start of the academic year, while bridging courses are typically open year-round.
Costs and Financial Considerations
While these foundation studies and bridging courses offer many benefits, you must consider their cost, who they're for, and the required time commitment.
Foundation studies programs are typically for international students and cost more than the other pathways. Expect to pay between $15,000 and $30,000 for a one-year program. Then, there's the cost of textbooks and materials.
Bridging courses are typically cheaper since they focus on specific subjects. However, depending on the course, you could pay between $500 and $2,000.
~$1,000.
~$700.
Tertiary preparation programs like the Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC) are often subsidised or free for domestic students, but the fee-paying options can range between $1,000 and $4,000.
Luckily, there are financial aid options available for many of these programs and courses:
- HECS-HELP Loans: Available for eligible domestic students enrolling in accredited preparation programs.
- Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for foundation studies or preparation programs, especially for international students.
- Fee Payment Plans: Some institutions allow students to pay tuition in instalments.
How to Choose the Right Program for You
Before choosing one of these programs or courses, consider your career goals. Don't take a course simply for the sake of it.
Carefully research the program's structure and duration and evaluate whether on-campus or online courses would be better for you.
Consider the fees and eligibility and see if scholarships or loans can help you pay for the course.
If you have any questions, you can also contact the university advisors or program coordinators for help choosing the right course.
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
