SCU College opens up new pathway to University

Southern Cross University has announced the establishment of SCU College, to provide new pathways into University and encourage greater participation in higher education across the region.

The College, which is wholly owned by Southern Cross University, will begin operation in 2012 with the first new courses expected to be available from Session 2, 2012, starting in June.

SCU College will offer Associate Degrees in a number of key areas including business, health, science and arts, through a network of learning centres from Coffs Harbour to the Gold Coast and via distance education. It will involve key strategic relationships with Gold Coast Institute of TAFE and North Coast TAFE.

“This is a really exciting development for the University and our partners, which will open up new opportunities to students across our region and beyond. We are committed to providing innovative ways for people who have the aptitude and ability to undertake higher education, to gain access to the benefits that university qualifications bring to their lives and the lives of their families,” Professor MacGillivray, Southern Cross University Deputy Vice Chancellor, said.

“The SCU College will provide access to higher education for a cohort of students who may have the ability but not have had the level of preparedness to access university.

“What we are providing is a stepping stone into higher education. Students will be able to exit with an Associate Degree or continue on into a full degree course at Southern Cross University.”

Professor MacGillivray said a key focus for SCU College would be providing a supportive and nurturing learning environment, with dedicated College staff and staff from TAFE.

SCU College will incorporate the University’s foundation program, Preparing for Success, which has proved to be an excellent pathway for people to gain the core study skills, confidence and competencies to progress to an undergraduate degree. It will also include the University’s English Language Centres, which are located at the Gold Coast, Lismore and Coffs Harbour.

“We are also currently looking at options for additional learning centres in various regional locations,” he said.

The University is currently recruiting for a director for SCU College.

Photo: Professor Bill MacGillivray.