University of Canberra : Ngunnawal Indigenous Higher Education Centre : The Ngunnawal Foundation Program

The Foundation Program

The Ngunnawal Centre has been functioning since 1995 as the focal point for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders studying at the University of Canberra. It is located on the University campus at Bruce. The University offers a wide range of courses with a professional orientation. These courses are organised within the following three divisions:

Admission Requirements

In general you must satisfy the University that you have a reasonable likelihood of success in the course of your choice. Students wishing to enter directly into a course of study must have completed Year 12 or the equivalent.

The Foundation Program provides for those who do not meet the normal admission requirements but have a reasonable chance of success. In addition to previous education, and relevant work experience will be taken into consideration.

Pathway to Successful Studies

The Foundation Program is a pathway to tertiary studies. It is the academic support service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in the Ngunnawal Centre. This program is in demand because students can study regular degree units at the same time as foundation units. It started in 1989.

The Foundation Program operates for those Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who have not passed Year 12 (or equivalent). It also provides entry to University for those students who have been away from study for many years and would like to develop the communication and study skills needed for success at University.

Aims of the Program

The specific aims of the program are as follows:

To prepare students for the demands of tertiary study
To develop the skills and knowledge to equip students for success in tertiary study
To assist students' learning in regular University units

Foundation teaching rooms are equipped with computers and quiet study areas so students can work on their assignments in a comfortable and friendly environment. The program also provides academic support for mainstream Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students on campus.

The Program

You can undertake the program full time or part time. As a full time student you study in one semester:

One or two regular University units of your choice (which count towards your degree)
Two Foundational units - Foundation Study Skills and Foundation Communication Skills

Other Skills Development

We assist you to develop:

Computer skills
Mathematics skills

The Centre is able to organise individual and or group tuition for mainstream subjects.

Student Assistance

The Aboriginal Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ATAS) students who have their application approved may receive the following assistance -
Under the ATAS program, tuition is available to all students at a maximum of up to two hours per subject a week. ATAS has the capacity to offer up to an additional five hours per week in total during examination preparation breaks. Assistance with material and equipment costs essential to the success of your tuition is also available.

Admission

Before admission, applicants will be asked to attend the University for an interview, where tests will be conducted to assess the applications' ability and potential.

Accommodation

There are guaranteed rooms available at the University Residences.