Starting uni is exciting, but also a little daunting. Do you jump straight into massive lectures and independent study, or take a more structured path that gives you extra support along the way? What if the way you start could change everything — helping you feel more confident, more prepared, and more at home in university life? A Diploma with UNSW College isn’t just another entry point, it’s a way to step into second year with certainty.
Here’s how it compares to direct entry.
Pathway or direct entry? Finding the right fit
Heading straight into uni means adjusting quickly to large lecture halls, fast-paced coursework, and figuring things out on your own. Some students love that independence, but if you prefer a bit more structure and guidance, a pathway program could be a better fit.
A Diploma with UNSW College covers the same first-year courses as a regular degree, but with smaller classes, more teaching time, and personalised academic support. Instead of feeling like you’re just trying to keep up, you’ll be learning in an environment that helps you thrive so when second year comes around, you’ll feel ready.
More support, less stress: Easing into uni life
Adjusting to uni life can be overwhelming — especially if you’re coming straight from high school, where everything was planned out for you. A pathway program helps bridge that gap by offering:
Smaller classes where your teachers actually know your name.
Extra learning time so you don’t feel rushed through coursework.
Weekly tutor sessions and study clubs to keep you on track.
A built-in student community, so you’re not figuring things out alone.
And the best part? You’re still getting the full UNSW university experience. You’ll be studying on campus, using world-class facilities, and being part of student life — just with a little more support along the way.
Beyond the degree: Why your first year matters
Uni isn’t just about getting a degree — it’s about preparing for what comes next. A pathway program gives you more time to build confidence, so by the time you’re in second year, you’re already ahead of the game.
You’ll also have access to internships, career mentoring, and industry connections, making it easier to land opportunities in fields such as business, engineering, science, media, and more. Instead of feeling like you’re playing catch-up in second year, you’ll already know how to make uni (and your future career) work for you.
Which option Is right for you?
If you’re someone who thrives in large lectures and independent study, direct entry might be the way to go. But if you’d prefer smaller classes, extra support, and a more structured transition into uni life, a pathway program could be the smarter choice.
Start strong, finish with confidence
A pathway program isn’t about taking the long way — it’s about taking the right way. In just 12 months, you could be stepping into second year at UNSW Sydney, feeling confident, prepared, and ready to make the most of your degree.
Let’s chat about your options and find the best path for you.
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UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™.
Diploma & Foundation Studies
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™ currently delivers Diplomas and Foundation Studies on behalf of UNSW Sydney - CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).
From 26 August 2024, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Diplomas under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
From 13 January 2025, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Foundation Studies under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
Pre-Masters Program & Academic English
UNSW College™ delivers the Pre-Masters Program and Academic English programs under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2024 UNSW Global Pty Limited.
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™.
Diploma & Foundation Studies
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™ currently delivers Diplomas and Foundation Studies on behalf of UNSW Sydney - CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).
From 26 August 2024, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Diplomas under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
From 13 January 2025, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Foundation Studies under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
Pre-Masters Program & Academic English
UNSW College™ delivers the Pre-Masters Program and Academic English programs under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2024 UNSW Global Pty Limited.