Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre
Welcome to the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre. Since 1974, thousands of people have entered University through one of our enabling or international programs, making our Centre the largest of its kind in Australia.
Our mission is to provide excellence in teaching and learning based on research informed approaches that enable students to transition into and through university with strong foundations and support. Our focus is on providing students with an outstanding learning experience that will help them to be inspired and achieve their continuing educational goals.
Our programs
Enabling pathway programs
Open Foundation and Yapug are our free enabling pathway programs, designed to help students to develop the skills they need, not only to gain entry, but to find success at university and beyond.
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Credit-based pathways
Our Undergraduate Certificates and Diplomas provide a focussed course of study alongside introductory skills required for further study. Upon completion students will gain guaranteed entry into selected degrees and receive credit for specific courses.
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Prepatory programs
Our preparatory programs include NUPrep Bridging and Refresher courses as well as English Language courses.
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Hear from our students
Charlotte's pathway to Nursing 1.41
Hear about Open Foundation graduate Charlotte Kilminster's journey to study a Bachelor of Nursing.
Keith's pathway to Medicine 1.55
Hear about Yapug graduate Keith Cole's journey to study Medicine.
Our outreach initiatives
Widening participation in higher education is a key goal of the Centre. To help achieve this goal, we engage with communities through our Children’s University and Uni4You programs.
Our learning support
We’re here to support our students to develop the skills they need to succeed at University. Students can access study support, attend a PASS session or workshop, or find out more about other academic services to help them with their studies.
Our research
We aim to be a global research leader in the fields of access, equity and enabling education. Our research supports evidenced based change in the provision of alternative pathways to higher education.
Cultural Safety Statement
The Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre recognises and respects the unique history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their unbroken relationship with the lands and the waters of Australia over millennia. We are dedicated to reconciliation and to offering opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to access and succeed in higher education. The Centre is committed to providing a culturally safe and inclusive environment for all.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.