Open Foundation

What is Open Foundation?

Image of students in a lecture Open Foundation is a tertiary preparation program conducted by the University of Newcastle. It has been successfully preparing students to enter University for more than 30 years, and is recognised as a University entry qualification by many universities around Australia.

Students undertake 40 units of study (consisting of two concurrent courses), and must pass their courses in one calendar year to be eligible to apply for University entry. Applicants must be 20 years of age or over and be Australian Citizens or have permanent residency.

Why:

Open Foundation provides a qualification which students can use to gain entry to University. At the same time the Open Foundation helps students to develop the skills needed for successful study at tertiary level. Our experience in teaching tertiary preparation courses over a number of years means that we are well placed to help individuals achieve their educational goals. In Open Foundation students learn about what it is like to study at University, and will be taught by staff who have experience in teaching at undergraduate level.

How:

Open Foundation is conducted in three modes. A part-time on-campus program runs over the whole academic year, beginning in February. The part-time program is also offered by distance delivery. The intensive on-campus program is a one semester full-time program, beginning in July each year. Successful students can be ready to undertake undergraduate studies the following year.

Where:

Open Foundation is offered at the Callaghan Campus in Newcastle and at the Ourimbah Campus on the Central Coast.