University preparation courses

We offer four preparation courses. We offer two more general preparation courses:

As well as two specialist University Preparation Courses aimed at people who either wish to become an Education Assistant or who are already working in the field:
  • University Preparation Course (Education Assistant Program)
  • University Preparation Course (Education Assistant: Special Needs)

The University Preparation Course (UPC)

Provides an alternative entry pathway to our courses. It prepares you for university level study by teaching the required skills for academic success with an emphasis on the student becoming an independent learner.

The UPC is open to school leavers, recent school graduates and mature age applicants.

Upon completion of the UPC, an equivalent TER (Tertiary Entrance Rank) is calculated for you. A weighted average mark of 50 on the UPC fulfils minimum admission requirements into ECU.

On successful completion of the UPC, you will be eligible for entry to a wide range of undergraduate courses - dependent on prerequisites, minimum TER requirements and available places.

Course information & admission requirements for the University Preparation Course

Note:

  • Applicants for the UPC should apply directly to TISC, refer to our Applying page for more information, including closing dates for applications.

Indigenous University Orientation Course (IUOC)

Tailored to enhance the learning skills of Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders within the framework of their cultural and social aspirations.

It prepares Indigenous Australian students with the academic skills and understanding required to engage with the knowledge and processes of university degree studies. The course covers preparation of university writing skills; university reading skills and basic computer skills.

More information about indigenous entry. Course information & admission requirements for the Indigenous University Orientation Course.

Note:

  • Applicants for the IUOC should apply directly to our Centre for Indigenous Australian Education and Research, Kurongkurl Katitjin.

University Preparation Course (Education Assistant Program) [UPC (EA)]

Not to be confused with the broader UPC, this specialist alternative entry pathway prepares you to be an Education Assistant as well as enabling direct entry to selected ECU undergraduate teaching degrees.

It prepares students for university level study by teaching the required skills for academic success, with an emphasis on the student becoming an independent learner.

The other central focus of this course is that it is designed to provide Education Assistants with the knowledge on how they can effectively support teachers in facilitating children's learning in a primary or secondary school setting.

Course information & admission requirements for the University Preparation Course (Education Assistant Program).

Note:

  • Applicants for the UPC (EA) should apply online, refer to our Applying page for more information, including closing dates for applications.

University Preparation Course (Education Assistant: Special Needs) [UPC (EA:Special Needs)]

This specialist alternative entry pathway prepares you to be a Special Needs Education Assistant as well as enabling direct entry to selected ECU undergraduate teaching degrees.

Students will develop knowledge, skills and an understanding of the classroom, as well as curriculum support skills required to work as an Educational Assistant with special needs learners in educational contexts from Kindergarten to Secondary level. Specific disabilities to be investigated will include learning, intellectual and physical disabilities.

It prepares students for university level study by teaching the required skills for academic success, with an emphasis on the student becoming an independent learner.

Course information & admission requirements for the University Preparation Course (Education Assistant: Special Needs).

Note:

  • Applicants for the UPC (EA:Special Needs) should apply online, refer to our Applying page for more information, including closing dates for applications.