University degrees are internationally recognised for most professional qualifications. First-level university degrees are known as ‘undergraduate degrees’ or ‘bachelor’s degrees’. Different universities offer different courses and each university has its own way of teaching and its own specialist areas. The general entry requirements for a degree are:
- Completion of Year 12 with minimum entry levels achieved to meet course pre-requisites OR
- Completion of a pre-university Vocational Education Training pathway course or diploma, for example through TAFE or a private college OR
- Several years of relevant work experience.
For more information on Australian Universities and their course offerings please visit the Australian Government’s ComparED website.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DOING A DEGREE?
- Access to in-demand professions that require a degree, for example teaching, science, nursing, architecture, medicine, law, some branches of engineering and many more.
- A great way to progress your current career by continuing study from VET to university, for example by completing a Diploma of Accounting and moving on to a Bachelor of Accounting.
- The opportunity to work overseas, because most university degrees are internationally recognised.
- Better opportunities and future pay in professions where a degree is an advantage, for example journalism, law, creative arts, business, accounting, IT.
- The opportunity to pursue a career as a researcher or university academic.
- Better employment prospects from developing leadership, teamwork, research and communication skills, which are very attractive to employers.
- The opportunity to study overseas. Most universities offer exchange schemes or international programs, which may involve overseas study in another language.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DIDN'T GET THE RESULTS I NEEDED FOR THE DEGREE I WANT?
There are a number of options available to get you there. Here are some ways to improve your entry ranks:
- Repeating Year 12 or a recognised secondary matriculation program
- Completing bridging studies (e.g. Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation)
- Undertaking Diploma or Advanced Diploma studies
- Accepting a place in another, less competitive bachelor degree program, completing at least one full-time year of study and, once complete, upgrading to your preferred course
- Applying on the basis of Alternative Entry provisions through selected Universities
For more information, including the maximum entry ranks attainable for these pathways, please consult the Universities for entry options or contact University Admissions Centre for more information.