Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway

Pre-degree | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

1 year(s) full-time only (no part time option)

Program code

ATSIP

Study as

Full-time only (no part time option)

Indicative annual fees

Fee Free

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Students must be a minimum of 17 years of age to be admitted.
Students must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Note:

Courses will be taught in one of five locations: Adelaide City, Ceduna, Mount Gambier, Port Lincoln, and Whyalla.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this program are provisional and subject to change.

Why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway?

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway program is your first step into a university degree at Adelaide University.

It’s open to all people who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and is delivered over one year of full-time study.

Our program will prepare you for university by building your academic and professional skills. Once successfully completed, you’ll have the opportunity to transfer into an Adelaide University degree.

If you have never studied at university before – and thrive in a supportive environment – the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway program will help you meet your study goals.

Overview

Our fee-free Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway program will help you develop essential academic knowledge and skills. As an introductory program to university, it aims to prepare you for success in future undergraduate study across the full range of degrees at Adelaide University. You can choose from five study locations including Ceduna, Port Lincoln, Mount Gambier, Whyalla and Adelaide City West campus.

This pathway option is delivered in three blocks, with a series of entry, exit and transition points that cater to different educational backgrounds and chosen destination degrees. You’ll study a culturally responsive curriculum within your local community and engage with culturally specific courses designed by Aboriginal scholars.

You’ll study a mix of core writing, mathematics and elective courses, where you’ll gain confidence as a university student. You’ll also extend your knowledge and skills to meet any prerequisites related to your chosen degree.

We’ll support you to successfully pursue further university study. From enrolment through to program completion, you’ll get help via enrolment sessions, mentoring, small class sizes and access to peer-assisted study sessions.

If you wish to exit your studies after the first two courses, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion, outlining your learned skills. If you exit the Pathway program after completing four courses, you’ll have guaranteed entry into a wide range of undergraduate degrees (some degrees may have a minimum GPA entry requirement so it’s always best to check before you apply). Completing all eight courses means you will have competitive entry into all undergraduate degrees if you also hold a competitive GPA. Please note quotas may exist for some degrees.

Key features

Prepare for future studies with our fee-free pathway program.
Get a taste of university and learn the skills you need for future study.
Enjoy tailored study support in regional and metropolitan areas.
Choose your own study path based on your preferred future degree.
Receive support from enrolment through to program completion and through your transition to an undergraduate degree.
Open to all people who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

What you'll learn

Over one year of full-time study, you’ll complete up to eight preparatory courses. These will build your skills and confidence for future undergraduate studies. You’ll advance your academic and professional skills through tailored learning in supportive classrooms. You’ll gain crucial knowledge in the following areas:

Communication skills
Academic writing
Literacy
Information and communications technology
Mathematics
Aboriginal culture
Land management.

You may choose to complete all three blocks of study or exit with a certificate of completion for your finished courses.

Your core courses will include:

Introduction to Academic Writing
Numeracy and Problem Solving
Critical Thinking: Media and Academia
Aboriginal Knowledges, Narratives and Experiences.

These courses will develop your academic writing, communication, numeracy, research, and study skills – including how to write academic assignments, reference, research and balance work with study commitments. These skills and experiences will give you the right launchpad to navigate your future university journey.

You’ll also focus on expanding your knowledge of Aboriginal cultures and how they are understood in contemporary Australia. You’ll reflect on representations of Aboriginal people in the media and explore the role of race, gender and social inequality within your own community.

You’ll choose four electives relevant to the study area of your future degree. These include:

Behavioural and Social Science
Business
Creative Arts
Design and Humanities
Education
Engineering and IT
Health
Law
Science.

The electives you choose will help set you on the path to your preferred undergraduate degree. You might want to tap into your analytical skills and pursue a data science or mathematics degree. Maybe you want to help our furry friends and complete a degree in animal or veterinary science. Perhaps you’ll reach for the sky and start your journey to becoming a pilot with our aviation degree.

Please note that most undergraduate degrees will accept four to six completed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway courses as an entry method. For entry to all undergraduate degrees, you will need to complete all eight courses and have a competitive GPA.

What courses you'll study

Complete 48 units comprising:

12 to 24 units for Core courses, and
24 to 36 units for Electives

Complete 12 to 24 units for either of the following:

12 units for all Block 1 core courses, or
Both of the following:
12 units for all Block 1 core courses, and
12 units for all Block 2 core courses

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Introduction to Academic Writing	Course code COMM1012	Units 6
	Course name Numeracy and Problem Solving	Course code MATH1036	Units 6

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Critical Thinking: Media and Academia	Course code COMM1003	Units 6
	Course name Aboriginal Knowledges, Narratives and Experiences	Course code INDG1009	Units 6

Complete 24 to 36 units comprising:

24 to 36 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Introduction to Human Anatomy	Course code BIOL1008	Units 6
Course name Foundations of Business	Course code BUSI1021	Units 6
Course name Writing for Academic Purposes	Course code COMM1001	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Biosciences	Course code EART1008	Units 6
Course name Science for Tertiary Learning	Course code EART1009	Units 6
Course name Introductory Economics and Personal Finance	Course code ECON1008	Units 6
Course name Foundations of Education Studies	Course code EDUC1029	Units 6
Course name Land Management	Course code ENVI1008	Units 6
Course name UO Introduction to Human Physiology	Course code HLTH1029	Units 6
Course name Digital Literacy: Screen, Web and New Media	Course code INFO1018	Units 6
Course name ICT Literacies	Course code INFO1027	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Algebra	Course code MATH1027	Units 6
Course name Statistical Literacy	Course code MATH1037	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Human Behaviour	Course code PSYC1022	Units 6
Course name Global Citizenship in the 21st Century	Course code SOCI1015	Units 6
Course name Individual and Society in Contemporary Australia	Course code SOCI1016	Units 6

How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this program are provisional and subject to change.

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life.

Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities where you are supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. Regional students will also have access to our Mount Gambier and Whyalla campuses, along with our Port Lincoln and Ceduna Study Centres.

Our Study Centres offer free Wi-fi (with your student login), workstations, printing and kitchen facilities. These centres are available to all Adelaide University students. Whether you’re studying online or visiting the area – you’ll have access to our network and online resources.

Our Mount Gambier, Whyalla and Adelaide campuses also have a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
First Nations support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.