Not everyone gets into the university course they want – and that’s okay! University course selection ranks are based on demand rather than the actual merit of the applicant, and your study journey doesn’t end here. There are other pathways to uni.

These bridging pathways can often be done online and be less time consuming, allowing you to earn while learning. While it may feel like things will take longer, you’re spending that extra time getting financially set up for uni, getting some real-world skills, and boosting your employability.

The Pathways to Uni

Alternative University Courses

You can apply for another university course at the next round of applications. These courses, diplomas, or certificates can help you boost your selection rank. Studying a similar subject area might give you credits to certain units in your desired course.

However, this avenue can get quite complicated. There is no one-size-fits-all or common pathway. The amount of time you need to spend studying, the kind of course you choose, and grades you need all depend on your desired course’s requirements. You will need to sit down with your chosen university to get advice on the right pathway for you.

College

University colleges may also offer bridging courses to help you meet course requirements and bring you up to speed on necessary knowledge. While they take less time, they are quite intensive and are mostly used to get subject prerequisites like Year 12 maths, chemistry, and biology.

TAFE

TAFE is a fairly common pathway to university. They offer associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates to help boost selection ranks for university. They also offer bridging courses to meet uni prerequisites.

Online RTOs

Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), like TAFE, are Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers. However, TAFE is run by the government, whereas RTOs are private. RTOs still provide qualifications recognised by the Australia Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).

Online RTOs allow you to study diplomas and certificates to help you get into uni and upskill.

What is the Best Option?

RTOs are a more specialised version of TAFE. They can help you develop those specific workplace skills and knowledge you need to feel equipped for university. They can also have a lot more flexible options and provide courses online, allowing you to study at your desired pace and work while learning.

While TAFE and universities can also provide online learning, their resources can vary greatly. RTOs may run the majority of their courses online, meaning that they are optimised and ensure you are getting the most out of your course.

Recommended Courses

Want to earn and learn? Here are some courses to consider to boost your skills and employability:

Leadership and Management

Study a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management if you want to work in a management role. Whatever field you want to work in, this course can get the leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills you need to climb up the career ladder.

Quality Auditing

Choose a Diploma of Quality Auditing to be able to perform reviews and evaluations of a company's Quality Management System. Every organisation is facing more and more compliance issues, so get the edge in high demand jobs with this growing industry.

Project Management

If you want to manage projects in your dream career, get a Diploma of Project Management. You can get skills in planning, leadership, and organisation and enter industries like construction, information technology, and education.