A new pathway from TAFE NSW to university has been described as a true alliance between the two sectors and one directed at providing more education options for students in regional Australia.
Vice-Chancellor and President of Charles Sturt University (CSU) Professor Ian Goulter made these comments while addressing the launch of the new pathway in Port Macquarie on Tuesday 7 June.
The Strategic Alliance for a Tertiary Pathway for Accounting was launched at North Coast TAFE NSW - Port Macquarie Campus by the NSW Education Minister, the Hon. Adrian Piccoli MP.
The Alliance is an initiative of TAFE NSW and involves CSU, the University of New England, the Australian Catholic University, Macquarie University, CPA Australia and Innovation and Business Skills Australia.
Through the new Alliance, TAFE NSW will develop an Associate Degree in Accounting which will provide direct entry to the third year of a university accounting degree.
The pathway for accounting is the first of several areas identified for a Tertiary Sector Pathway Degree. Others include early childhood, engineering and creative industries.
Professor Goulter said, “The value of this approach is that it is not an attempt to put together existing qualifications but is a fully integrated new pathway where the integration occurs at the initial curriculum design stage.
“This Alliance is directed at providing broader options and opportunities in accounting for students. It will also provide highly skilled graduates to meet the skills shortages in local areas.”
Professor Goulter praised the industry partners and accounting professional bodies for their role in supporting the new integrated pathway program.
“Charles Sturt University has demonstrated leadership in our collaboration with TAFE and this new program strengthens our existing ties to encourage improved access and opportunity for rural students. Read more about the existing relationship here.
"This year alone Charles Sturt University admitted 27 per cent of its undergraduate students based on TAFE qualifications.
“Demand for accounting graduates in regional areas far exceeds supply and our research shows the majority of accountants trained at Charles Sturt University choose to remain in regional Australia after they graduate.” Read more here.
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