Yapug

Yapug graduate Kobey's story

If you're an Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander person and aged 17 years* or over, Yapug is your key to university! Offered at the Newcastle Callaghan campus and Central Coast Ourimbah campus, Yapug is a pathway program designed to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people gain skills for entry into undergraduate degrees at the University of Newcastle.

Yapug will help you develop the academic skills and self-discipline required for success in undergraduate study. This specialty pathway program is specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders wanting to:

  • Gain guaranteed admission to over 70 undergraduate programs at the University of Newcastle
  • Develop the academic skills necessary to succeed at university level;
  • Become familiar with the University of Newcastle and its environment; and
  • Develop different learning methods and skills, including problem-based learning, whilst enjoying a supportive learning environment (culturally, personally and academically).

Yapug offers flexible study options. You can choose to study:

  • Full-time over one year (two semesters); or
  • Part-time over two years (three or four semesters).

When you embark on the Yapug pathway program at the University of Newcastle you will benefit from a range of support services offered by the Wollotuka Institute. Some of the key services offered by the Wollotuka Institute include counselling, tutorial assistance, a well-equipped resource centre, audio and visual materials on Indigenous topics and issues, health support and cultural programs.

*Applicants turning 17 in the year of study require parental/guardian consent to proceed with enrolment.

2022 Testimonial

"In 2022 my son Jack was a student in the Yapug pathway program.

For Jack, this was his first year away from mob and country and the outstanding and friendly work of the staff at Wollotuka is evident when I see how Jack has developed as a young Anaiwan man. Not only has he matured as a person but, thanks to Wollotuka and the environment you have created, he has grown in his cultural identity and self-esteem.

The Yapug program is a much-needed initiative for the university but would be less effective without the cultural perspectives, lived experiences, life skills and vast knowledge the staff bring to make the program come to life."

-  Simon Munro

What does it cost?

There are no fees for the Yapug program. You will not be liable for HECS-HELP during the Yapug program, but will be liable for HECS-HELP once you are enrolled in an undergraduate degree.

Scholarships

There are lots of scholarships available to support you during your studies. Although there are no course fees for Yapug, students might need assistance with purchasing textbooks, a computer or even relocation costs. Visit our scholarships page to see what you're eligible for.

View scholarships

Financial assistance

The Yapug program is Centrelink approved and as a full-time Yapug student you may be eligible to apply for financial assistance through the ABSTUDY scheme.

Applications have now closed

Learn more

Learn more about your pathway options

Download our pathways guides to find out more about your study options, or let us know what you’re interested in and we’ll keep you updated on all the latest info and events relevant to you.

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