Finding your perfect learning path: a guide for mature-aged students

As a mature-aged student, you don’t have to settle for one kind of learning journey. You know what you want, how you want it and what you want it to do for you — and the University of New England (UNE) understands that. Their majority-mature-aged student cohort has rated their overall university experience as 5 stars for 19 years running^*, and that’s because their course design, support and student infrastructure is some of the best in the country. Whether you’re going to university for the first time, coming back for a career-related qualification or making a larger change, there’s a pathway at UNE for everyone:

For mature-aged students going to uni for the first time

If you’re someone who’s looking to progress their career with a university qualification, making that transition into a university setting can be challenging — but UNE has a range of programs, courses and support options available to help you along your way. For those who haven’t completed Year 12, you may be able to enter UNE through the Mature Age Special Entry program, which takes your industry experience or prior study into account to help determine whether you’re university-ready.

If you’ve completed a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in an area relevant to your planned studies, you may be able to gain recognition of your prior learning, which can be put towards course credits and help you complete your degree more quickly.

If you’re looking to build your academic confidence before starting university, you can also take a look at UNE’s Pathways Enabling Course. The course focuses on helping you develop your skills in study, writing, research and critical thinking skills to help you achieve success in your further studies. The course is also fee-free, and includes a unit of study that you may be able to put a towards a future course.

For mature-aged students returning to university

Most of UNE’s student body are mature-aged students, which means you’ll have a community of like-minded students alongside you, as well as a faculty that understands your experience and can help you prepare for your next big step.

You might also be concerned about re-adjusting to the university life you remember from your post-high school years, but the great thing about studying at UNE is their commitment to innovation and embrace of online learning. UNE offers fully online learning options for the majority of their courses, allowing you to more effectively balance work, life and study, and receive your education on your time.

For mature-aged students looking for a career upgrade

UNE offers far more than full degree programs; depending on your needs, there are a range of courses at your disposal to help you upgrade your career opportunities. At the post-graduate level, UNE offers programs such as their Masters of Business Administration, Master of Artificial Intelligence, Master of Economic and Regional Development, Master of Cybersecurity or Master of Data Science, as well as a range of Graduate Diplomas and Certificates. These programs are geared towards providing students with the skills they need to progress their careers into the future, turning industry trends and challenges into opportunities. There are also a range of shorter courses available for study, including online short courses and subjects designed to give you the university-level education you need to feel confident and qualified — without the commitment or cost of a full degree. These courses can even count as credit towards a full degree should you choose to continue your studies later. No matter where you are on your career journey, UNE offers a learning pathway designed to fit your unique needs. From first-time university experiences and returning students seeking further qualifications, to professionals aiming for a career upgrade, UNE's flexible programs, supportive community, and commitment to online learning empower mature-aged students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. Explore the options available and discover how UNE can help you take the next step towards a brighter future.

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