The Gordon’s no ATAR pathways open doors to university

FOR many Year 12 students, the wait for ATAR results can be one of the most stressful moments of the school year.

But in Geelong, an alternative pathway is helping hundreds of local graduates step into university study, without needing an ATAR at all.

The Gordon is seeing a steady rise in students using vocational qualifications as a bridge into higher education, with 68 graduates moving into degrees at Deakin University last year alone.

The institute says the trend reflects a growing understanding that university isn’t only for those with a traditional academic entry score.

Instead, Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas completed at The Gordon can provide guaranteed entry into a range of degrees at Deakin and Torrens Universities, often with credit that shortens the time and cost of completing a bachelor qualification.

With around 80 guaranteed-entry pathways across 37 Deakin University degrees, students can build on their TAFE qualifications or pivot into a related field.

Popular pathways include engineering, nursing, community services, business, architecture and the arts.

The Gordon says its close partnership with Deakin University ensures students can stay local while progressing their studies, maintaining support networks and reducing the financial strain of relocation.

For many, studying in Geelong also provides a smoother transition into university, thanks to smaller class sizes and applied learning.

Gordon graduate Bella Dripps said the TAFE-to-university pathway gave her the practical experience and confidence she needed before moving into her degree-level study.

Dripps completed a Diploma of Engineering at The Gordon and is now studying engineering at university. Beginning her journey through TAFE gave her a strong foundation and set her up for a smooth transition into her degree.

Dripps said she really enjoyed her experiences at TAFE.

“The coursework is practical, the class size is small and the teachers are great.”

“Using the engineering workshops on campus and having plenty of networking opportunities with professionals in the field.”

Students who complete a Diploma or Advanced Diploma at The Gordon have up to five years to take up a guaranteed place at Deakin. Certificate IV courses, however, do not meet university entry requirements.

With demand for tertiary pathways growing, The Gordon says its message to school-leavers is simple: ATAR or no ATAR, there are strong, supported routes for learning right here in Geelong, including into university.

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