News Archive

In 2012 UWA was one of the first universities in the country to make significant changes to its undergraduate course structure, aligning it to an international model that better prepares our graduates for the challenges of a changing world.

As you are aware, last year the University carried out a post-implementation Course Review. While overall feedback on the new structure was positive, there were a number of recommendations made to improve our course offering, particularly regarding communication and providing clarity around course options and the benefits to students, staff and the community.

We all have the ability to influence and guide in formal and informal ways and can act as ambassadors for the University.  Teaching is such a vital part of what we do, so we need everyone, regardless of role, to understand and be able to confidently give an overview of our course structure. Our communication about UWA Courses needs to be consistent, be it to high school students, school principals and existing students, or even our friends and family who ask for advice for their child.

This starts with terminology. Initially launched as ‘ New Courses ’, four years on these are no longer new, and therefore will now be referred to as ‘ UWA Courses’ .

The options for undergraduate and postgraduate degree packages, previously called ‘ Assured Entry Professional Pathways ’, will now be known as ‘ Direct Pathways ’, as they provide clear direction from application through one of five undergraduate degrees into postgraduate study and onto a career.

The Direct Pathways are designed for students who are striving for a particular career and want clear direction and the fastest route through to an internationally-recognised professional qualification.

We also know that not all students come to university knowing exactly what they want to do at the end of their studies. Some students are interest-led and may have a range of interests they want to pursue. This is possible with a UWA degree. Our students can design their course to suit their interests without having to declare a major until the end of their first year. This flexibility allows students to try different units to help find their passion.

Going forward there will be a series of internal communications ensuring we are all on the same page regarding this shared terminology and how UWA Courses can assist Undergraduate and Postgraduate students achieve their study and career objectives.

You will also start to see our new advertising pop up from the end of May as we launch the 2016 Undergraduate recruitment campaign.

If you have any questions regarding:

-          UWA Courses and Direct Pathways please contact Grady Venville on Ext 3811

-          Undergraduate recruitment campaign please contact Peta Maddock on Ext 5525