The transition from TAFE to university study has been made easier with the launch of a new Study Link subject from Charles Sturt University (CSU).

 

The 'Transition from TAFE/VET' subject will add to the existing suite of 15 short, self-paced, online Study Link subjects designed to assist students make a smooth transition to tertiary study.

 

CSU Study Link team leader Mr David Ward said the new subject was created specifically for students moving from TAFE to university.

 

"The subject is the result of a university-wide project that investigated the successes and challenges faced by students making such a transition," he said.

 

"Charles Sturt University is committed to supporting all students make a successful transition to university and this subject aims to make the whole change experience a very positive one.

 

"A significant proportion of students entering our University come after completing TAFE awards. It is important that we accommodate the needs of this cohort of students, and this new subject incorporates the feedback and experiences of many students who have taken that path previously."

 

Unlike the rest of the Study Link suite, the 'Transition from TAFE/VET' will be delivered face-to-face in two-day workshops and will focus on academic expectations, university culture and structure, support systems, writing skills, critical thinking and online learning.

 

"This subject will help students make important contacts with staff and fellow students and give them a chance to ask any questions they may have about their studies at Charles Sturt University," Mr Ward said.

 

Meanwhile, the Study Link calendar has been overhauled to allow students more flexibility in how they approach the 15 other subjects available.

 

"Many university subjects no longer rely on prerequisite studies as a condition of enrolment but do assume students have a certain level of proficiency in areas like chemistry, maths or statistics," Mr Ward said.

 

"Students about to begin university studies, but who may have gaps in that assumed knowledge, can enrol in Study Link and work with a subject coordinator to enhance academic skills and subject-specific knowledge."

 

Study Link subjects are delivered online, range from about 15 hours to 40 hours in duration and include a number of assessment items which do not count towards a student’s university grades.