University Preparation Program

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to: 

1. Find, evaluate, manage and use information in a range of formats for academic purposes to demonstrate reading, writing, numerical, and other literacies
2. Address and solve discipline-related issues and problems through critical thinking
3. Identify, evaluate and implement strategies to learn independently and cooperatively
4. Communicate ideas in both written and oral forms to an academic audience

The program allows students the opportunity to develop:

• Cognitive skills to critically analyse information

• Skills and knowledge across a variety of different discipline areas

• The capacity to identify and access information, and do research

• Academic literacy, numeracy, and ICT skills

• Communication skills to present clear, coherent ideas and information

• Independent study skills to support success within a university learning environment

The program enables students to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to continue study on a pathway into diploma, associate degree or bachelor level study.

Higher education

There are no formal entry requirements for the University Preparation Program.

The University of Tasmania grants credit and recognition of prior learning that may include formal and/or informal prior learning. More information is available here.

The University Preparation Program (UPP) is a flexibly delivered enabling program. The program is designed to provide adult learners with academic learning skills and the confidence and personal skills needed to succeed at University. Successful completion of UPP enables students to meet the general admission requirements for undergraduate degree programs offered by the University of Tasmania. 

The University Preparation Program (UPP) is an enabling or preparation course for:

• Mature age students

• Students who did not complete year 11 or 12 (or did so a long time ago)

• Students whose first language is not English

• Students already enrolled in a degree who find they are struggling because of a lack of academic skills and knowledge

This program is designed for applicants who do not meet general entry requirements for their chosen degree or who want a more supported or graded introduction to university study.

Recommended Study Pattern

For students undertaking full-time study the following study pattern is recommended.

If students are undertaking part-time study, we recommend that students complete all first year compulsory subjects prior to completing elective subjects to maximise success.

Completion of 8 subjects from the schedule below: 

• 6 core subjects:
  • TAS-UPP010 Learning at University
  • TAS-UPP014 Writing in Practice
  • TAS-UPP015 Numeracy and Data in Practice
  • TAS-UPP016 UPP Project A
  • TAS-UPP017 Communication Skills in Practice
  • TAS-UPP018 UPP Project B
• 2 Discipline subjects
  • Choose 2 subjects from:
    • TAS-XAB021 Academic Writing
    • TAS-XAB084 Introductory Scientific Principles
    • TAS-XAB090 Bridging Maths
    • TAS-XAB091 Academic Numeracy

Award Requirements

Satisfactory completion of 8 subjects, as required in the schedule, within 1-3 years from commencement.

Students do not receive an award after the completion of the University Preparation Program. This is an enabling non-award course to prepare students to undertake further study and meet general entry requirements at the University of Tasmania.