Find your path to uni
If you are looking for a career change or didn’t get the marks for your dream degree, we have a number of pathway programs to get you started.
Pathway programs
Our Pathway programs are often free and will help you to develop the skills you need, not only to gain entry, but to find success at university and beyond.
Open Foundation
Open Foundation is a free pathway program offered at the University of Newcastle for people who do not have the preparation or qualifications required for direct entry into their desired undergraduate degree.
Yapug
Yapug is a pathway program designed to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to gain skills for entry into university while immersing them in Indigenous knowledge, history and culture.
Why study at the University of Newcastle?
The University of Newcastle offers many pathways and entry options to give you the best chance of getting in. Since 1974 over 60,000 people have entered university through one of our pathway programs. You will be mentored, supported and inspired by passionate teachers to set you up for success in your university career.
Credit-based Pathways
Our Diplomas provide a more supported start to university study. Upon completion, you will gain guaranteed entry into selected degrees and receive credit for specific courses when you enter your Undergraduate degree.
Casual study options
If you want to study one or more subjects at university without advancing to a degree or diploma you can choose non-award study . We also offer open online courses in a range of subject areas and specialised Chinese language courses.
Get the best start to your uni experience
Make your transition to university a smooth and comfortable experience with a variety of guides and services that will make your pathways journey easy and stress-free.
NUPrep
NUPrep is your head start to Uni. NUPrep offers free academic preparation and support for all University of Newcastle students in the weeks leading up to each Semester. Taught by discipline experts, you can study a range of courses designed to prepare you for your degree.
Read more
Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre
The Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre has a proud history of delivering flexible and supportive pathways for motivated and talented students - not just to gain entry, but to thrive in their field of study.
Read more
Applying
Your guide on how to apply for pathways options and beyond at the University of Newcastle.
Read more
Guaranteed entry to over 40+ degrees
Our enabling pathway programs provide students with guaranteed entry to over 40+ degrees.
Read more
Guide to getting in
The University of Newcastle has a number of pathways, scholarships and entry options to help you with getting in to uni.
Read 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.
a confirmation email shortly.
Important dates
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.