Breadcrumbs
Associate degrees provide new pathway to study
The University of the Sunshine Coast will this year offer a new pathway to tertiary study by introducing associate degrees in Arts, Business and Science.
These two-year programs provide for guaranteed entry into a full degree program on completion – with full credit for completed subjects – and eligibility to apply for one of 20 Commonwealth-funded scholarships.
USC Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said students could begin studying associate degrees in July this year and gain a “stepping stone” to further academic achievement.
“Associate degree students can go on to a full degree if they want to,” he said. “They will have the opportunity to look at where they really want to go with their study.
“Students will be encouraged to structure associate degrees so they can graduate with a full degree a year later, and graduate with majors that they are interested in.”
USC has 15 Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarship (CECS) valued at $2162 per year and five Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarship (CAS) valued at $4324 available for students enrolled in associate degrees.
Professor Hill said applications for these scholarships would be assessed in the same way as existing equity scholarships at the University.
“The new Government-funded initiative has been particularly designed to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds,” he said.
“This will certainly make the transition to study easier for them because they won’t have to do as much part-time work to cover their study costs.”
Applications for the scholarships will close on Friday 25 July, 2008.
The University of the Sunshine Coast will hold a free information evening on Wednesday 14 May for all those planning to start studying in July 2008.
The Mid-year Options Evening from 6-8pm will give prospective students the chance to talk one-on-one with academics and admissions staff about study options, scholarships and their future careers.
To register for the evening, phone Tegan Piggford on (07) 5459 4795 or email <options@usc.edu.au>.
— Terry Walsh