Fast-tracking diplomas to degrees

In a sector-leading move, Curtin University is offering prospective students who have completed a diploma or advanced diploma in various fields such as early childhood education, construction management and design a fast-track pathway to degree qualifications.

Recognising the value of Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications as a springboard for academic advancement, Curtin has implemented a more seamless system to bridge the gap between TAFE and university.

Director of the Centre for Learning Enterprise and Partnership Engagement, Chandra Sundareswaran said the initiative was a significant step forward for prospective undergraduate students coming from VET pathways, including TAFE, to Curtin.

“We are now able to provide clear guidance on the credits VET students can expect to receive when they enrol at Curtin, making the process more transparent and efficient,” Mr Sundareswaran said.

“Curtin’s Faculty of Humanities has spearheaded an exhaustive effort to meticulously map VET qualifications to corresponding university courses. This allows block credits to be automatically applied, eliminating the need for time-consuming individual assessments.

“As well as a smoother transition, the initiative also reduces the course duration, wait times and costs for students.”

This recognition of prior learning pathway allowed graphic design student Erica Welsh to receive 400 credits towards her university studies, due to previously completing an Advanced Diploma at North Metropolitan TAFE — the equivalent of two years of full-time study.

Ms Welsh is currently completing a mixture of second and third-year units and had the option of completing her Bachelor of Design degree in as little as 12 months.

“When I completed my Advanced Diploma at TAFE, my children were still very young so I started my own design studio so I could be at home,” Ms Welsh said.

“As my children are now nearly leaving high school, I have the opportunity to diversify my design expertise and thought a Curtin University degree would refresh and broaden my current practical design skills, knowledge and understanding of graphic design and assist in my prospects of future employment.”

Ms Welsh said the recognition of her TAFE qualification was the only way she could undertake her university studies.

“Without the Articulation program, I just would not have had the time or funds required to complete three years of study,” she said.

“The Graphic Design department was very helpful in assisting me with enrolment and timetables, plus the tutors really want to help you succeed and are more than happy to provide advice and assistance if requested.

Six Curtin Faculty of Humanities courses have now undergone comprehensive mapping:

• Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care to Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)

Applied credit reduces course length from 3 years to 4 years.

• Advanced Diploma to Bachelor of Arts (with a choice of 14 majors)

Applied credit reduces course length from 3 yearsto 1.5 years.

• Advanced Diploma of Graphic Design to Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design)

Applied credit reduces course length from 3 years to 1 year.

• Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts to Bachelor of Creative Arts (Fine Art)

Applied credit reduces course length from 3 years to 1 year.

• Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) to Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management)

Applied credit reduces course length from 4 years to 3.5 years.

• Diploma of Screen and Media (Animation and Game Art or Animation and Visual Effects) to Bachelor of Design (Animation and Game Design)

Applied credit reduces course length from 3 years to 2 years.

The improved credits initiative also aligns with the recommendations in the Universities Accord, advocating for closer integration between universities and the VET sector.

Plans are underway to assess expansion into other Curtin faculties.

Curtin is hosting a TAFE to Humanities Day at the Bentley Campus on Tuesday, November 12 with information sessions presented by the School of Design and the Built Environment, and School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry.

Curtin Connect staff will also be available to assist with applications. For more information on Curtin University’s VET and TAFE pathway initiatives and eligibility criteria, please visit our website.