Gympie set to gain pre-university course
Gympie residents keen to improve their job opportunities through higher qualifications could soon be able to take part in a free pre-university program without having to leave town.
The University of the Sunshine Coast will hold a public information evening on Tuesday 14 October at 6.30pm at James Nash High School to gauge interest in its innovative Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP).
This program provides an alternative entry to university study for those who do not have the traditional entrance qualifications.
Once students successfully complete four TPP subjects – comprising Academic Skills, Computer Literacy and two electives – they can enrol to study any undergraduate degree at the University.
Tertiary Preparation Pathway coordinator Dr Robert Grandin said TPP was sponsored by the government and there were no fees involved.
Dr Grandin said hundreds of people had already completed TPP at the University campus at Sippy Downs over the past two years and had enjoyed the support and benefits of the program.
He said the same program could be provided at the joint USC/James Nash High School facility in Gympie if there was enough interest by Gympie district residents.
“Study will involve one three-hour workshop each week in each subject,” he said. “You may study full-time (four subjects) or part-time and complete your program at your own pace.
“The elective subjects are Bioscience, Mathematics, Statistics, Aboriginal Society, Contemporary Australia and An Introduction to Society. A guide to which subjects to choose for your desired course is on the university website.
“Once you have successfully completed the program, it is only a matter of applying for continuing enrolment into your desired undergraduate course.
“Many students have successfully completed the program and gone on to study a degree through which they will have a new and rewarding career.”
For more details about USC’s Tertiary Preparation Pathway, contact Dr Grandin on 5459 4831 or email <rgrandin@usc.edu.au>.
— Terry Walsh