Free short courses

NUPrep is here to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Whether you are looking to brush up on your academic skills, get a head start in your studies or learn something new, we have a short course for you. Our courses have flexible study options and are designed to be engaging and interactive. Our expert instructors are passionate about helping students reach their full potential.

TAUGHT BY EXPERTS Courses taught by discipline experts
PROVEN RESULTS ? NUPrep students achieve a higher success rate
AWARD ON TRANSCRIPT Courses shown on academic transcript

About NUPrep

Course requirements


To be eligible for admission applicants must:

  • be 16 years or older
  • be an Australian citizen or have Australian permanent residency status.
English requirements

You must comply with the level of English proficiency requirements of your intended program. If you are one of our community members and are concerned about your English proficiency, contact our team at enabling@newcastle.edu.au for more information.

Each NUPrep course takes 15-20 hours to complete and we offer flexible delivery options to suit you.

On campus

You’ll receive valuable contact time with our teachers as each course has a total of 12-15 hours of class during 1 week. Each day has about 3 hours of class time. It is recommended you also allocate an extra few hours for each course to revise any content and work on tasks.

Online

Courses delivered have self-paced materials to go through in your own time over the NUPrep term. You won’t have any scheduled classes, but there will be an experienced academic answering questions, moderating discussion boards and marking assessments.

Upcoming dates
2024 Q2 dates 
Term commences18 March 2024
Term ends3 May 2024
2024 Winter dates 
Term commences1 July 2024
Enrolments close15 July 2024
Census date17 July 2024
Term ends19 July 2024

Find your course

Use the guide below to help you find the relevant courses for your study level. You can complete up to 3 courses in the NUPrep term. We have courses across 3 levels of study, so you can choose a course that suits your needs.

If you are not particularly confident in your skills, you are encouraged to begin with our foundation courses as they build a foundational knowledge base in each subject. From there, you can do the more advanced courses to build your skills and knowledge fast!

I am…

Note: This tool is for course level information and reference only.

Foundational courses

Course code

EPPREP760

Available at

Callaghan, Central Coast and Online

Learning outcomes
  • analyse an assignment question and interpret a rubric
  • search an online library catalogue
  • evaluate the reliability of an academic text
  • create a reference list
  • write a thesis statement
  • write a paragraph, using paraphrasing and in-text referencing
  • access the university’s support services.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

EPPREP800

Available at

Callaghan, Central Coast and Online

Learning outcomes
  • determine what the question is asking
  • devise a reading plan and take notes
  • organise ideas in order to structure the argument in response to the question
  • construct grammatically correct sentences
  • use evidence to support arguments
  • use correct referencing systems
  • edit drafts.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

EPPREP860

Available at

Online

Learning outcomes
  • engage in appropriate online communication via a variety of channels
  • evaluate their own digital identity
  • apply critical thinking techniques to digital texts
  • create a digital media product.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Introductory courses

Course code

EPPREP760

Available at

Callaghan, Central Coast and Online

Learning outcomes
  • analyse an assignment question and interpret a rubric
  • search an online library catalogue
  • evaluate the reliability of an academic text
  • create a reference list
  • write a thesis statement
  • write a paragraph, using paraphrasing and in-text referencing
  • access the university’s support services.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

EPPREP800

Available at

Callaghan, Central Coast and Online

Learning outcomes
  • determine what the question is asking
  • devise a reading plan and take notes
  • organise ideas in order to structure the argument in response to the question
  • construct grammatically correct sentences
  • use evidence to support arguments
  • use correct referencing systems
  • edit drafts.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

EPPREP860

Available at

Online

Learning outcomes
  • engage in appropriate online communication via a variety of channels
  • evaluate their own digital identity
  • apply critical thinking techniques to digital texts
  • create a digital media product.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

PREP8500

Available at

Callaghan and Ourimbah

Learning outcomes
  • gain confidence using Canvas, the University of Newcastle online learning system including practice quizzes and examinations
  • submit a practice assessment to Turnitin, the text matching software that helps you reference correctly to avoid plagiarism and academic misconduct
  • how to make the most of an online Zoom class
  • store, edit and share documents using OneDrive
  • enhance your skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

For more info on course content and availability view the course overview

All courses

Course code

EPPREP760

Available at

Callaghan, Central Coast and Online

Learning outcomes
  • analyse an assignment question and interpret a rubric
  • search an online library catalogue
  • evaluate the reliability of an academic text
  • create a reference list
  • write a thesis statement
  • write a paragraph, using paraphrasing and in-text referencing
  • access the university’s support services.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

EPPREP800

Available at

Callaghan, Central Coast and Online

Learning outcomes
  • determine what the question is asking
  • devise a reading plan and take notes
  • organise ideas in order to structure the argument in response to the question
  • construct grammatically correct sentences
  • use evidence to support arguments
  • use correct referencing systems
  • edit drafts.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

EPPREP860

Available at

Online

Learning outcomes
  • engage in appropriate online communication via a variety of channels
  • evaluate their own digital identity
  • apply critical thinking techniques to digital texts
  • create a digital media product.

For more info on course content and availability view the course handbook

Course code

PREP8500

Available at

Callaghan and Ourimbah

Learning outcomes
  • gain confidence using Canvas, the University of Newcastle online learning system including practice quizzes and examinations
  • submit a practice assessment to Turnitin, the text matching software that helps you reference correctly to avoid plagiarism and academic misconduct
  • how to make the most of an online Zoom class
  • store, edit and share documents using OneDrive
  • enhance your skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

For more info on course content and availability view the course overview

How to enrol

How to enrol as a community member

Applying is quick and easy!

  1. Select Apply Now
  2. Fill out your details and select ‘Create Account’
  3. Select ‘Get Started’ at the bottom of the next page
  4. Complete your Personal Details
  5. Select ‘NUPrep Bridging and Refresher’ when asked ‘What do you want to study’
  6. Select ‘Community’ as your stream
  7. Complete your application by uploading your identification documentation and submitting.

If you have any questions about applying, please contact our team at nuprep@newcastle.edu.au or phone us on 02 4921 5558.



Looking to the future? Consider your next steps

Enrol in Open Foundation to advance your knowledge and skills, gain access to flexible study and to receive guaranteed entry to over 40 degrees upon completion. Open Foundation gives you a clear path to Undergraduate study. Take the next step towards achieving your goals!

Learn more on Open Foundation

Ready for your Undergrad?

How to enrol as a current student

University of Newcastle students can enrol in NUPrep courses through myHub, found on myUni. If you are a new student you need to activate your student account first.

  1. log into myHub
  2. select the NUPrep Bridging and Refresher option
  3. click on 'Enrol in EPPREP (NUPrep Course)' button and follow the instructions
  4. complete the EPPREP Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF) request for Commonwealth support and HECS-HELP Enabling Program Students and follow the steps. This process means the Commonwealth Government will pay for your NUPrep course and check your eligibility
  5. select your course and add it from the dropdown list – make sure you select the correct commencement date and location.

If you need help with enrolment you can contact our friendly staff by emailing  NUPrep@newcastle.edu.au



Looking for academic support?

University life can be challenging, especially for students who are just starting their academic journey. One of the key elements that determine success in university is the ability to develop and apply academic skills effectively. Along with NUPrep short courses there are a range of available support programs that run throughout semesters.

Learn more about your support options

How to enrol as a current student

University of Newcastle students can enrol in NUPrep courses through myHub, found on myUni. If you are a new student you need to activate your student account first.

  1. log into myHub
  2. select the NUPrep Bridging and Refresher option
  3. click on 'Enrol in EPPREP (NUPrep Course)' button and follow the instructions
  4. complete the EPPREP Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF) request for Commonwealth support and HECS-HELP Enabling Program Students and follow the steps. This process means the Commonwealth Government will pay for your NUPrep course and check your eligibility
  5. select your course and add it from the dropdown list – make sure you select the correct commencement date and location.

If you need help with enrolment you can contact our friendly staff by emailing  NUPrep@newcastle.edu.au



Looking for academic support?

University life can be challenging, especially for students who are just starting their academic journey. One of the key elements that determine success in university is the ability to develop and apply academic skills effectively. Along with NUPrep short courses there are a range of available support programs that run throughout semesters.

Learn more about your support options

FAQ

Enrolment and course info

When can I enrol?

You will be able to enrol in NUPrep Bridging and Refresher Courses 1-2 months prior to each NUPrep Term. Check the Key Dates section on this page for more information.

How many NUPrep courses can I enrol in?

We recommend taking no more than 1-2 courses per week during the NUPrep Term. It is important to keep on top of your classes and sometimes students find this difficult to juggle more than this in one week.

Do I need to enrol in the course and select class times like I do in my undergraduate/enabling courses?

Selecting class times is only required for courses with multiple class options.

What materials do I need for the courses?

For NUPrep courses you'll just need access to a working computer, plus whatever writing/note-taking implements you like to use. For the best experience with Canvas, please make sure you use the correct browser.

There are no textbooks required for these courses and you won't be required to purchase any software or programs. Your lecturer will give you more information about what is required on your Canvas course site.

How do I find out about the course content and assessment tasks?

Each course has a dedicated Canvas site which contains all the relevant information. When you enrol in your NUPrep Bridging and Refresher course you will automatically be added to the Canvas site for that course.

Course participation and assessments

Will there be any assessments?

Yes, there will be some assessment. The amount and type of assessment varies with each course and each subject. The short tasks are designed to help you master some of the skills and develop an understanding of your learning strengths and weaknesses, before you start your formal study.

The assessment tasks could be, short take home tasks, online quizzes, small tasks completed in the class or a mixture of all of these. Feedback regarding your completion of the assessment tasks can be used as a valuable tool to help with your learning.

Past students comment that feedback from the quizzes and tasks helped them to organise their learning and focused their attention on the things they needed to practise.

The aim of the assessment tasks is to help students become effective independent learners by understanding their learning. The assessment tasks, teach specific strategies for planning, monitoring and evaluating your academic progress.

Is my participation monitored?

Your participation in the courses either by attending classes, watching class recordings or completing the online modules will be monitored. This is evidence of your engagement with the course material and the assessment tasks. If you do not engage with the course content at all you will not be given an un-graded pass.

When will I get a notification of my grade?

Results will be available in myHub on the Fully Graded Date, you can find them by clicking the Academic Records tile > View my grades. To see the Fully Graded Date for the next NUPrep term, check the Key Dates section on this page.

Withdrawing or completing NUPrep

I started a NUPrep course now I want to withdraw. How and when do I need to do this?
  • If you have enrolled in a NUPrep course and no longer wish to complete it, simply drop the course in myHub.
  • If you do this before the Census Date, no record of the course will appear on your academic transcript.
  • If you stay enrolled in the NUPrep course beyond the Census Date and do not complete the course material, the course will appear on your academic transcript with a WW (withdrawn) grade.

*There are no fees charged for any NUPrep courses or programs.

Is there a record of my course completion?

Yes, all NUPrep Bridging and Refresher courses with an EPPREP* code that you successfully complete will be recorded on your academic transcript with a grade of U/P (ungraded pass).

  • If you withdraw before the Census Date, no record of the course will appear on your academic transcript.
  • If you stay enrolled in the NUPrep course beyond the Census Date and do not complete the course material, the course will appear on your academic transcript with a WW (withdrawn) grade.

*Codes that begin with PREP are more of a workshop format and do not have an assessment component. You won't receive a grade, and the courses won't appear on your academic transcript.

Do I get credit for completing this course, and does this count towards my GPA?

No credit is given for NUPrep courses and they do not count towards your undergraduate or enabling pathways Grade Point Average (GPA) or Weighted Average Mark (WAM).

Course Logistics

What if my NUPrep classes clash with my program orientation?

Although we try to minimise the clash between NUPrep classes and Orientation sessions during the week prior to Semester starting, there will, unfortunately, be some crossover.

You should aim to attend your degree/program Orientation sessions as a priority. Don't worry, you won't miss out - you will be able to catch up on any class recordings you miss through the Canvas course sites.

How do I communicate with the lecturer and/or fellow students?

There is a Discussions area on the Canvas site for your course. This Discussions area can be used for general introductions and questions. If you wish to contact your lecturer, the contact details are on Canvas. You are welcome to send an email at any time, but just be aware that your lecturer may not respond outside business hours.


To see the Census Date for the next NUPrep term, check the Key Dates section on this page.

Couldn’t find what you were after? Our friendly staff are available to answer any questions you might have.
You can email your question to enabling@newcastle.edu.au or call us on +61 2 4921 7791

Class timetable

NUPrep courses run periodically throughout the NUPrep Term and not every course is available in every location.

Check out our timetables below for location details:

Online

Course CodeCourse NameCourse StartCourse End
EPPREP700Mathematics for Health, Medicine and Wellbeing18-03-202403-05-2024
EPPREP790Foundation Chemistry18-03-202403-05-2024
EPPREP950Surviving Statistics for Tertiary Studies18-03-202403-05-2024
EPPREP960Introduction to Human Biology18-03-202403-05-2024
EPPREP760Academic Survival Skills05-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP780Mathematics for Beginners05-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP800Writing for University05-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP860Digital Literacies05-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP900Foundation Physics05-02-202423-02-2024

Ourimbah

Course CodeCourse NameCourse StartCourse End
PREP8500Introduction to University e-Learning Systems29-01-202431-01-2024
EPPREP760Academic Survival Skills05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP780Mathematics for Beginners05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP790Foundation Chemistry05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP800Writing for University12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP830LANTITE: Literacy for Pre-Service Teachers05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP840LANTITE: Numeracy for Pre-Service Teachers12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP940Introduction to Undergraduate Chemistry12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP960Introduction to Human Biology19-02-202423-02-2024

Callaghan

Course CodeCourse NameCourse StartCourse End
PREP8500Introduction to University e-Learning Systems29-01-202431-01-2024
EPPREP700Maths for Health, Medicine and Wellbeing12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP760Academic Survival Skills05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP780Mathematics for Beginners05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP790Foundation Chemistry05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP800Writing for University12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP820Grammar for Linguistics19-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP830LANTITE: Literacy for Pre-Service Teachers12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP840LANTITE: Numeracy for Pre-Service Teachers05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP850Mathematics Bridging for Education15-01-202419-01-2024
EPPREP900Foundation Physics05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP920Introduction to Foundational Mathematics19-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP930Introduction to Mathematics for Engineering, Science and Technology12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP940Introduction to Undergraduate Chemistry12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP941Introduction to Undergraduate Chemistry (Advanced)19-02-202423-02-2024
EPPREP950Surviving Statistics for Tertiary Studies19-02-202422-02-2024
EPPREP960Introduction to Human Biology05-02-202409-02-2024
EPPREP970Physics for Medical Radiation Science12-02-202416-02-2024
EPPREP980Introduction to Programming12-02-202416-02-2024

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