New partnership boosts career prospects of QLD students

The partnership, signed today (28^th July) at JCU’s Cairns campus, will give TAFE Queensland students greater access to a wide range of JCU courses, including business, education and nursing.

Depending on the course completed at TAFE and the degree chosen at JCU, the student could get up to a year's worth of credit, allowing them to study part-time or reduce the time it takes to get their degree.

For example, a student who’s completed a Diploma of Early Childhood Education at TAFE to become a childcare worker can use the qualification as credit towards a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education).

Study can be undertaken at JCU’s Cairns, Townsville or Singapore campuses or online, depending on the course chosen.

JCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Global Strategy and Engagement, Professor Robyn McGuiggan said the partnership will boost the career options of thousands of students in Queensland.

“JCU and TAFE Queensland are working together to create new and exciting opportunities for TAFE students who want to continue their study, and gain credit for their studies towards a degree.

“This agreement will provide pathways for students for further study in a broad range of courses. These include our Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education). We are keen to pursue agreements in other areas including nursing.

“More courses will be added, and as we roll out new courses, we can provide pathways for further study,” Prof McGuiggan said.

TAFE Queensland North General Manager, Joann Pyne said it is great that TAFE Queensland and James Cook University are working together to benefit students across the state.

“Our graduates will be able to have the practical skills and knowledge they have gained from TAFE credited towards a university degree. So this is a great pathway that will produce well-rounded graduates, who are well and truly work ready.

“TAFE is a great place to start your tertiary education, we have a wide range of support services available to ensure people succeed in an adult learning environment and are equipped with the right skills and feel encouraged to seek a pathway to university,” Ms Pyne said.

JCU has previously held agreements with TAFE in various parts of Queensland but this partnership covers TAFE across the state.