The University of Sunshine Coast (USC) is helping years 11 to 12 students prepare for tertiary-level education through its Headstart program.
Students who take part in this program can choose from more than 80 courses across various fields of study – with the first course free of charge and succeeding subjects offered at a reduced rate.
USC Schools Relationships Officer Kirsty Jarrett said that these subjects will also give participating students credit toward their Queensland Certificate of Education.
The Headstart program is different from USC’s tertiary preparation pathway (TPP) program, which also gives participating students access to almost all of the University’ degree programs.
The TPP offers flexible study options for students aged at least 17-years-old who are undecided of what degree to take.
How the Headstart program works
While participating students can attend lectures on campus, take exams and turn in assignments and projects, they are also expected to assess their own progress independently.
Headstart students are expected to spend at least 10 hours a week in the program – half of which is dedicated to lectures and tutorials while the rest is for independent study. Upon completing at least two courses, these students are guaranteed a spot in the university.
While completing their courses, Headstart students are also given access to USC facilities and staff to help them complete their subjects.
Northpine Christian College graduate Kiah Vescovi, a previous Headstart student, said that she had learned self-directed learning while going through two subjects for her degree in paramedic science. Now in her second year in USC, Vescovi was accepted into the program even before finishing school.
Other universities, such as Charles Sturt University (CSU), are also known for offering early placements – even ahead of the release of ATAR results.
While USC’s program fosters students’ good study habits, CSU’s early entry program also hones students’ skills beyond academics, such as communication and empathy.
USC’s program comes at a time when school leavers are opting to spend a gap year before heading on to university.
At the same time, state governments are ramping up the promotion of vocational education and training (VET) especially after the federal government introduced changes to make the transition from VET to university easier.