Elly Mackay
22 April 2020: High school finishers, mature-age students, and current students of CIT and TAFE are among those who will have the opportunity to study at the University of Canberra based on a portfolio application, rather than the traditional ATAR entry requirements.
The specialised admission process will be offered to future students applying to study courses within the Faculty of Arts and Design. The faculty has been offering portfolio entry for several years, however the program has now been expanded with those affected by the COVID-19 crisis in mind. Portfolio entry is valid for almost all Faculty of Arts and Design undergraduate degree courses.
Portfolio entry ensures that current Year 12 students who may be worried about their ATAR score due to COVID-19 disruptions have an alternative pathway for enrolment into the University of Canberra. School leavers are encouraged to use works they have completed as part of school projects or assessment items to form their submission. This removes the need for previous industry experience and entry will be based on students’ passion and their ability to apply that enthusiasm to university study.
Current CIT or TAFE students who have not yet completed their course and mature-age applicants are also encouraged to apply. This concept supports those who may not have received an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) or completed Year 12 but have other qualifications and experience deemed suitable for entry.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design Professor Jason Bainbridge says the program is designed to ease the pressures of University entry for those who have the relevant skillsets and enthusiasm.
“It’s particularly important at the moment that we support anyone whose livelihood has been impacted by COVID-19 or who might be concerned about their future study prospects,” Professor Bainbridge said.
“In the Faculty of Arts and Design we have long recognised that creativity and aptitude isn’t just measured by a good ATAR score. Our portfolio entry takes creative expression, talent, and experience into account.”
Applicants can submit up to five pieces of their best creative works that are related to the degree they are applying for. The works will then be assessed by a panel of academic staff, before an interview is offered to shortlisted applicants.
Bachelor of Architecture student Nicholas Cooke used his previous carpentry experience to apply for entry in Semester One this year. He says the process meant he did not have the added stress of trying to coordinate his Year 12 studies, an Australian School Based Apprenticeship (ASBA) and applying for ATAR entry to University.
“While I was in years 11 and 12, I undertook an ASBA in carpentry which I continued to pursue after graduating from Year 12,” he said.
“I knew I wanted to study construction and architecture, so once I completed my apprenticeship, I applied by submitting my carpentry qualifications. The process was stress-free and it was easy to enrol into my courses.”
“I’m currently working as a carpenter while studying full time. Having real-world experience before my entry into the University means that I now have a balanced lifestyle when it comes to work and study.”
Application deadlines for portfolio entry fall in line with Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) dates, and applications for Semester Two 2020 and Semester One 2021 are now open.
For more information and to apply, click here.
