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Pathways

Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP)

Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) (ACEQ)

Entry requirements
Study mode
  • On-campus
  • Online
Campus
  • Ipswich
  • Springfield
  • Toowoomba
Duration
  • 1 block full-time, 2 blocks part-time
Start
  • Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Oct
Notes: International students may only undertake this program via online study.

Overview

  • Ready to start a new career, or don’t have the relevant entry requirements for your chosen degree? If you have not completed year 12 or it has been a while since you studied, UniSQ’s Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) is your gateway to uni.
  • Study when and where you want, online or on-campus while receiving personalised support from UniSQ’s dedicated TPP team. Successfully completing TPP makes you ready to apply for a range of UniSQ undergraduate degrees. 
  • Learn how to write academic assignments and build your confidence for further studies. Study subjects to develop your reading, writing, maths, and study skills and successfully prepare yourself for university studies.
  • Choose to study specialised subjects to gain entry to the degree you wish to study.

Further study

What if you’re not quite ready for a bachelor degree, or want a qualification sooner? Our Undergraduate Certificate of University Studies (4 courses) or Diploma of Multidisciplinary Studies (8 courses) are the perfect next steps on your university journey.

Career outcomes

  • As part of this program you'll enhance your core academic skills to think critically and write academically, providing you with everything you need to succeed at university, and the confidence to follow your dream career.
  • As a stepping stone to further university study, successfully complete TPP and be ready to apply for a range of UniSQ undergraduate degrees, with endless career opportunities.
  • Preparing you for a future full of possibilities, our TPP program provides you with the opportunity to receive personalised career advice from one of our own Career Development Practitioners. You’ll get help in working out what your career dreams are for the future as well as setting goals to achieve them. 

Entry requirements

  • 18 years or older

To assist staff in determining your current level of academic literacy, it is recommended you complete a short placement test and Academic Literacy Test prior to receiving an offer from UniSQ. 

These only take a short amount of time to complete (around 1.5 hours), and the result helps us tailor a personalised pathway for you. Our staff can provide advice on which UniSQ pathway program best suits you or the most appropriate starting level within the Tertiary Preparation Pathway. 

While these tests are not compulsory (please note, for students who did not complete schooling in Australia these tests are mandatory), doing them helps us find your best starting point. If you would like to be considered for the fast-track pathway, you will need to submit these tests as part of your application.

Study with the experts - we’ve been offering TPP for over 30 years and we know what we’re doing. Chat to us before finalising your decision on courses (subjects), as your choice may have an impact on your future studies. 

English language requirements

Students need to satisfy English Language requirements. This program normally requires a minimum of IELTS 5.5. or equivalent through study or employment. In exceptional circumstances, based on results of the communication skills tests, alternative entry approval may be given.

Other pathway options

At UniSQ, we understand the path to University is different for everyone. There are many pathways programs available to fast-track your way to a UniSQ degree, and gain the confidence to study along the way.

Need help deciding which pathway is right for you? Contact our friendly team who can assist with any questions you might have.

Degree structure

You will enrol in and complete the required courses based on the undergraduate degree of your choice. The articulation map in the UniSQ Handbook provides a guide for the selection of TPP courses in order to gain entry to and best prepare for each undergraduate degree. You can seek advice regarding the entry requirement for your desired undergraduate program based upon your individual circumstances.

UniSQ undergraduate degree entry requirements

At UniSQ, most undergraduate degrees have a minimum rank (ATAR) and entry requirements, such as subject pre-requisites. The Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) can help you get a rank and meet subject pre-requisites, so you can start in your dream degree!

I don’t have an ATAR/rank.
If you complete 2 or more TPP courses you will get a rank. The higher your grades, the higher your rank.

I don’t have an ATAR/rank or meet any subject pre-requisites.

Follow the full TPP Program articulation map, relevant to the program you want to study, to make sure you can apply for your degree. You will need to successfully complete some required courses to be ready to apply to the degree.

Fees and scholarships

Domestic students who meet the citizenship and residency requirements are eligible for a Commonwealth supported place. As a Commonwealth supported student undertaking a pathway program, you’ll receive a full Government subsidy and will not be required to pay tuition fees.

If you’re not eligible for a Commonwealth supported place, you will be required to pay a domestic tuition fee in accordance with the annual UniSQ fee schedule.

How to apply

Complete your online application directly to UniSQ.

Intakes

Select to start your degree in one of the following intakes:

Intakes Application closing date Study period start date End date
Block 1 Monday 15 January 2024 Monday 22 January 2024 Friday 8 March 2024
Block 2 Monday 11 March 2024 Monday 18 March 2024 Friday 3 May 2024
Block 3 Monday 6 May 2024 Monday 13 May 2024 Friday 28 June 2024
Block 4 Monday 1 July 2024 Monday 8 July 2024 Friday 23 August 2024
Block 5 Monday 26 August 2024 Monday 2 September 2024 Friday 18 October 2024
Block 6 Monday 21 October 2024 Monday 28 October 2024 Friday 13 December 2024

More information on applying key dates is available.

Further information

Discover further information on applying to study at UniSQ that is relevant to you.

Two men collaborating at a computer workstation in an office environment.

Got questions?

 

Begin your study journey today with the university rated 5/5 stars for graduates starting salaries* and start the degree that’s right for you.

*Good Universities Guide 2024

Talk to us
What is a Tertiary Preparation Pathway?

A tertiary preparation program can be used as a pathway to university if you don’t meet the entry requirements of your chosen degree. Also known as a university preparation program, the Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) at UniSQ is designed to build your general study skills and your confidence to study at a university level.

Tertiary preparation courses can also be a way to get into uni without an ATAR.

Why should I study UniSQ’s Tertiary Preparation Pathway?

Whether you’re a school leaver or returning to study, our expert staff offer personalised advice to determine the most appropriate pathway program and starting level for you. The UniSQ Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) can be tailored to your skills, previous experience, and the degree you want to study.

You’ll study preparation courses for university that develop your reading, writing, maths and critical thinking skills while being introduced to the discipline area you’re interested in.

Choose to study online or on-campus and receive the same support from our dedicated TPP team. You’ll have plenty of flexibility that enables you to balance work, life and family commitments along with your study.

Once you have completed UniSQ's tertiary preparation courses, you are eligible to apply for a range of UniSQ undergraduate degrees

How long does the Tertiary Preparation Pathway take at UniSQ?
The duration of the tertiary preparation program will depend on your requirements for entry into your selected undergraduate degree and your study background. Usually, you will study one or two tertiary preparation courses per block (study period) and each block goes for six-seven weeks. 
What are the pathways to entry?
The only requirement is that you need to be 18 years of age to apply for the Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP). To determine the preparation courses for university you should enrol in and find the best study path for you, it’s recommended that applicants complete a placement test prior to receiving an offer. The result of this test helps us tailor the most appropriate university preparation program for you.
How do I apply for the program?

You can apply to study TPP by submitting an online application directly to UniSQ. 

Discover more about applying for a pathway program

Can I study UniSQ’s Tertiary Preparation Pathway online?

Yes, you can! Study in the comfort of your own home or wherever it suits you with our university preparation program, TPP. It is available to study online, or on-campus at one of our three unique campuses. Discover more about the ways you can study a preparation course for university at UniSQ.