As a high school student in Years 10, 11 or 12 looking to study in university, you'll face important decisions about your future. One of these decisions includes selecting the right subjects to study in your senior years and planning your pathway to university. Whether you're just starting to choose your senior subjects or you're deep into your studies, it's crucial to consider how these choices will impact your university options and future career. One valuable option to keep in mind is bridging programs.
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Overview of University Bridging Courses
What Are University Bridging Courses?
University bridging courses are short, intensive programs designed to help students meet the prerequisites for specific university degrees.
These courses cover essential subjects that students may not have studied in high school but are required for their desired field of study. By providing you with the necessary knowledge and skills you need, you'll be able to transition smoothly into your selected university-level studies program.
For example, the Biomedical Science degree typically requires completion of specialised subjects such as Mathematical Methods and Biology.
Benefits of Bridging Programs for University
If you're considering a bridging program for your undergraduate degree, here are a few reasons why it could help you get into your dream degree at uni:
📚 Meeting Course Requirements
Successful completion of university bridging courses allow you to fulfill the specific subject requirements needed for your chosen degree and program, such as Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics.
⌚ Flexible Learning Options
These courses are often available during the summer or as part-time studies, offering flexibility to accommodate your personal schedules.
🗓️ Efficient Study Planning
You can focus on achieving a strong ATAR in subjects that count towards their overall score while meeting other prerequisites later.
💪 Confidence Building
They can provide a solid foundation in subjects that may have been challenging which can help you feel more prepared for university studies.
Example QLD Bridging Programs for Uni
We've included a short overview of common QLD university bridging programs available for you as of 2025. However, please note that other bridging programs may exist for the university of your choice and interest (we recommend checking your university website directly for the most up-to-date information).
University | Course Cost | General Information | Available Bridging Courses |
$1500 per course |
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$1500 per course FEE-HELP / HECS-HELP not applicable |
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Completing Year 10 Mathematics (or equivalent) at a satisfactory level is recommended before starting the Maths Methods bridging course
Additional Considerations for Senior Students
For Year 10 Students: Choosing Senior Subjects
As a Year 10 student, you will select your subjects for Years 11 and 12 and consider your future university and career goals. If you're unsure of your path or want to keep your options open, remember that bridging courses can help you meet prerequisites you may not cover in high school.
For Year 11-12 Students: Managing ATAR and Workload
For Year 11 and 12 students, balancing ATAR scores and course loads can be challenging. If you're worried about managing a heavy subject load or meeting prerequisites for your desired university program, consider the option of bridging courses. These courses allow you to focus on maximizing your ATAR in core subjects while ensuring you can meet necessary requirements later.
Note for ATAR Students: ATAR calculations typically take your top 5 subjects, including English. Choosing to focus on subjects where you excel can help maximize your ATAR score and bridging courses offer a way to fulfill additional subject requirements later on without impacting your final ATAR score.
FAQs about University Bridging Courses
What is a bridging course in university?
A bridging course is a short program designed to help students meet the entry requirements for specific university degrees and courses by covering essential subjects.
Can I go to university if I didn't finish Year 12?
Yes, many universities offer bridging courses and other pathway programs that can help you qualify for entry into a degree, even if you didn't complete Year 12. We recommend checking the course prerequisites that you need and seeing if your university offers a bridging program to help you meet the requirements.
Do bridging courses increase ATAR?
Bridging courses themselves do not increase your ATAR but help you fulfill necessary subject requirements, allowing you to focus on ATAR-boosting subjects during high school.
How do I get to uni without ATAR?
You can get into university without an ATAR by completing a bridging course, diploma, or other preparatory programs, providing alternative entry pathways. Bridging courses in university are a great way to meet course prerequisites for your desired program of choice.
Which university offers bridging courses?
Most universities offer bridging courses and programs to help students meet course prerequisites. Examples include universities such as the University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and Monash University offer bridging courses in various subjects.
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