Alternative entries to study

USQ provides a number of pathways for students to gain access to the University who otherwise may not have been able to study for various reasons. We run a number of programs to cater to the diversity of our community.

Head Start Program

To give high achieving students a head start, USQ offers them a chance to commence university study earlier through the USQ Head Start program. A number of courses are offered to students wishing to study on-campus at Springfield, Toowoomba and Fraser Coast. We also provide students with the opportunity to study by distance education.

Tertiary Preparation Program

The Tertiary Preparation Program (TPP) provides the opportunity for people to enhance their chances of gaining a tertiary place within the University. It is designed to cater for a range of people including past school leavers who need to improve their ranking to qualify for tertiary entrance. For people who may not have completed high school it can give them the study skills needed to complete a University degree.

Toowoomba Flexi-school to USQ Project

This project aims to provide the opportunity of a tertiary experience, potentially leading to access to higher education, for marginalised youth in USQ's local catchments area.

Students receive support to sample and understand the study and university learning experience. Opportunities are provided for students to experience a wide range of academic and social facilities and services in the tertiary environment. Students from the Toowoomba Flexi-school study one subject at a first year level in a range of USQ faculty undergraduate courses. A comprehensive selection and preparation program is involved including: career advice and guidance, student self selection identifying strengths, interests, abilities, ambitions, previous achievements and staff perspectives.

Correctional Services Program

We work closely with the Queensland Department of Corrective Services (QDCS) to provide tertiary access programs to offenders in the custody of correctional centres. Initial entry to USQ for offenders is generally via the Tertiary Preparation Program which currently enrols more than 200 offenders each year, servicing 56 correctional centre throughout Australia. University staff work collaboratively with Education Officers throughout these centres to support students. 

Indigenous Higher Education Pathways Program (IHEPP)

The Indigenous Higher Education Pathways Program (IHEPP) gives Indigenous students tertiary preparation skills, with an Indigenous focus. Students can choose to use this program to enhance their skills for employment purposes within the Indigenous community or to gain entry to undergraduate USQ programs.