Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations

Home
/
Future students
/
Get into UC
/
Pathways programs
/
Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations

Your pathway to a master’s degree

Introduction

Main

If you’re an international student who has already completed an undergraduate degree, but you don’t currently meet the minimum requirements for a University of Canberra master’s degree, the Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations (GCAF) could be the alternative entry pathway program you’re looking for.

The course will help you develop your academic learning and research skills, preparing you for postgraduate master’s study at UC. When you successfully complete the Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations, you’ll then qualify for admission to your chosen coursework master's degree at UC.

What will I study?

What will I study

Main

In the Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations, you’ll study over one semester (six months) in which you'll complete four units:

  • Managing People
  • Introduction to Critical Thinking
  • Academic Writing and Research Skills
  • Intercultural Academic Communication. 

Am I eligible?

Am I eligible

Main

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations you’ll need to have:

  • already completed a three-year post-secondary qualification or equivalent (as approved by the university)
  • achieved an IELTS score of 6.0 overall (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent.

If your IELTS score is lower than 6.0, you’ll need to study an English language course in order to achieve this score before starting the Graduate Certificate in Academic Foundations.

Learn more about entry requirements

What happens when I complete the course?

What happens when I complete the course

Main

To meet the English proficiency requirements to your UC course you must successfully complete the GCAF and achieve the following results in the unit ‘Academic Writing and Research Skills G’: overall 50% from the unit and 65% on the combined test and final exam score.

Once you’ve met these requirements, you can continue on to one of the following UC master’s degrees:

Faculty of Arts and Design

Faculty of Business, Government and Law

Faculty of Education

Faculty of Science and Technology

Future dates

Future dates

Main

The program runs multiple times throughout the year, giving you the opportunity to enrol and complete it ready for the start of the next University teaching period.

For information on future program dates visit the UC College course dates information.

If you have any questions about upcoming intakes and course requirements, please email ucc.admissions@canberra.edu.au.

How to apply

How to apply

Main

To apply visit UC’s online application portal and complete the online application form. You'll need to upload all relevant certified documentation as requested on the form, such as your passport or birth certificate and academic transcripts. 

If you’re an international student, you can choose to apply through one of our approved international agents.

Program fees

Find out more about international fees and costs

Talk to us

Get in touch to find out all you need to know about studying at UC.

Enquire