Pathways to university

A university pathway is a program designed to get you into your dream degree. Pathway programs are for anyone who doesn’t meet the entry requirements or have the ATAR they need to enrol in a degree. UniSQ prides itself on creating opportunities for all students to seek tertiary education. Our pathway programs provide alternative routes to university for people at various life stages. From mature-aged students who haven’t studied in a while to students who didn’t finish high school – there is a pathway for everyone.  

UniSQ’s bridging courses are specifically designed to prepare you for university. They focus on developing critical thinking, academic writing, research skills, and subject-specific knowledge – equipping you with a solid foundation for your undergraduate studies.

UniSQ’s pathway programs include:

UniSQ Ready – If you don’t meet the entry requirements of a degree or if you haven’t completed Year 12, UniSQ Ready is the pathway for you.

Gain entry to your chosen UniSQ degree and be ready to thrive at university by building your academic skills. Develop your academic reading, writing, maths and general study skills.

UniPrep – If you’re a Year 10, 11 or 12 student who wants an introduction to university study or if you’re not receiving an ATAR, this qualification is for you. UniPrep provides an introduction to university and gives you the skills to begin your degree with confidence.

Once completed, you will receive two Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). points and meet the QCE literacy requirement. You will be eligible to apply for a range of UniSQ degrees and can apply for early entry.

Indigenous Higher Education Pathways Program (IHEPP) – If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person this pathway might be for you. Develop integral university study skills through courses that have a First Nations focus. 

This program is for those who haven’t studied in a while or don’t meet entry requirements for a degree. 

Once completed, you will be eligible to apply for direct entry into some UniSQ undergraduate degrees.

Head Start – If you are a high-achieving Year 10, 11 or 12 student who is keen to explore university study while still at high school, Head Start is for you.

Choose from a range of UniSQ courses and get a head start on your degree. You will receive two QCE points for each Head Start course you complete and can gain early entry into a degree.  

Applying for a UniSQ pathways program is easy. You can apply directly to UniSQ by filling in the online application form. Be sure to check the teaching periods and application close dates before you apply. 

Whether you are returning to study after a period in the workforce, or contemplating studying for the first time, there are many options available to start your university degree at UniSQ.

You can use your work experience, and/or your TAFE, VET, and previous university studies to apply. You can also use a UniSQ pathway program to get into your chosen degree.

If you’re not sure you'll meet the entry requirements of the degree you're wanting to study, let us know and we'll be happy to give you advice. 

Students enrolled in pathways programs (also commonly known as university bridging courses) at UniSQ have access to a range of support services. These include academic advising, personal counselling, career guidance, and study skills workshops. These services are aimed at ensuring you have the necessary support to succeed in your studies and transition smoothly into university-level study.