21 May 2013

What are colleges?

Private colleges are a cross between university and TAFE. You can study many of the courses offered at university, but in a smaller school environment and without all the other pressures or intensity. You can also study many courses that TAFE offers, but in a more specialised and focused or concentrated setting.

 Private colleges aren’t government funded like TAFE or some universities.

Am I suited to a college?

Most of the students who go to private colleges have similar interests and are dedicated to their studies, because they’ve specifically chosen that course of study and have paid privately for the privilege. If you want to study in a place that’s got the best of both worlds, then you might find your groove at a private college.

What can I study at a college?

Some colleges offer all kinds of courses ranging from academic and scholarly types, to practical and technical trades and skills, while others only teach one industry trade or profession. Anything goes, from Health Sciences, Education and the Arts, to Hospitality, Business, Beauty, Hairdressing and Technical Trades. The only courses not offered are ones like Medicine and Law.

How does it all work at a colleges?

The entry requirements for private colleges are like the ones for TAFE. You don’t need any for some courses, and others require you to have at least completed Year 12. Some work experience or other study counts towards credits too.

You can study for Certificates from I–IV in sections or all together, or you can study further for a Diploma or Advanced Diploma, depending which course you study.

Some private colleges offer Degree courses in partnership with universities, so you may even come out at the end of it all, presented with a Bachelor of ‘Something’!

How will a college education help my career?

Private colleges definitely look good on your C.V or Resume if you want to be seen for specialising and being dedicated to your desired career or profession. Private colleges will give you an excellent standard of training, skills and knowledge, and this always helps when it comes to going for the job you want.

What will a college cost me?

These places tend to cost more than TAFE, but less than university, depending on what kind of course you study. There is some government help for students at private colleges, but not like at government institutions. It’s definitely an investment in your future.