24 Feb 2021

So, you’ve got that number. You know, the one that caused the all-nighters, frantic cramming, breakdowns, cancelled plans and excessive study sessions. Yep, your ATAR. The hype, pressure and stress surrounding the ATAR is enough to make anyone want to go into hibernation.

Even though it feels like your entire academic experience has been building up to that number, it’s actually not that important. I mean seriously, what does that ATAR know about you anyway?

Look, for some of you, you’re stoked. Some of you aren’t that chuffed and guess what, that’s OK.

Whether you have an ATAR or not, don’t for a second feel like you’re falling short of getting into your dream uni degree. There are so many pathway courses you can do to crack into the uni scene without that pesky ATAR.

 

So, what are my options?

Have you heard about pathway programs? Let’s break it down. Most people go to uni through the front door by direct entry. But with a pathway, you go around the back, where your ATAR isn’t the only thing that’s considered. Thing is, you all end up in the same place, but you just take a slightly different path.

Instead of starting a degree straight out of high school, you’ll begin studying a diploma at a uni pathway provider that’ll get you started in whatever area it is you’re keen on studying.

Our beautiful mates over at TAFE Queensland recognise you’re much more than your ATAR and can get you started on your university degree quick smart with over 550 pathways to choose from. Successfully completing a certificate III, certificate IV, diploma, advanced diploma, or associate degree at TAFE Queensland can help you get into your dream university degree. And in many cases, completing a diploma may actually give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of their partner universities.

What are the perks?

There is seriously an abundance of benefits when it comes to pathways. First of all, studying this way means you can start working in your industry straight away, using your certificate or diploma skills while you finish off your degree. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!

It’s also the perfect taste tester to see if uni is really your flavour, potentially saving you years of study and a colossal HECS debt.

Say you start a pathway course in business because, why not? But you quickly realise just because you were decent in Year 12 business studies doesn’t mean you actually want to pursue it as a career. Rather, in that time you’re figured out that what you’re actually passionate about is writing and think a career in journalism or media is the way to go.

The handy thing about having done the pathway program is that you can switch up what you’re studying and not leave empty-handed, because at the end of the year you’ll have a qualification which you might use down the track. Pretty convenient, huh!

If you’re thinking that a pathway program is a red hot idea, it’s really time to get TAFE Queensland on your radar. With their hands-on and flexible training, you’ll be fast tracking your way to uni while loving life! Check out TAFE Queensland over here to make an enquiry and read their study guide.