11 January 2007

Pilot program for college students great success

The University of Canberra College is delighted by the results of a pilot program, which allowed ACT college students who were not eligible for a UAI score at the end of year 12, to upgrade their qualifications so that they could enter the University of Canberra in 2007.

The program, which was run in conjunction with Lake Ginninderra, Hawker and Copland Colleges emphasised the development of skills in academic writing, oral presentations, data analysis, information gathering and research report writing.

Students were selected by the participating Colleges and came from a range of backgrounds and educational experiences although all were eligible for a Year 12 Certificate.

14 students commenced the program in July 2006, and by the end of the year, 11 had completed.   Nine of the students who completed the course are eligible to receive offers from the University of Canberra in disciplines as diverse as Arts in International Studies, Architecture, Journalism, Nursing, Teaching and Human Nutrition.

Ms Glenys London, Academic Director of the University of Canberra College is very pleased with the way that the students approached their studies and their overall results.

"A program such as this allows students, who were not planning to attend University, to have more choice for their future.   Some of the students originally came into Year 11 with particular direction in mind that did not include the possibility of studying at University.   This program allowed them to successfully change direction," Ms London said.

The success of the program means that it will be extended in 2008 to encompass other public colleges.

ACT Minister for Education, Mr Andrew Barr is also delighted that students in the ACT Government schools have access to such a program.

"College years are important to set up students for their future careers, but they are also times of indecision for many young people.   It is important to have a structure in place which allows students to make changes during their college years, " Mr Barr said.

UC Communications

Gaye Morrison
T: 02 6201 5855
M: 0409 470 755

Kaddie Pass
T: 02 6201 2681

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Last Updated on August 1, 2005