USC is expanding its online and on-campus university study options for students by offering a suite of new career-focused diplomas in 2022.

Applications are now open to study one-year diplomas in Education (Primary and Early Childhood), Animal Ecology, Business and Allied Health Assistance from Semester 1 next year.

USC Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Helen Bartlett said the one-year diplomas would offer choice and flexibility for those wanting to take the initial step towards gaining tertiary qualifications to achieve their career goals and enhance their job prospects.

“This suite of undergraduate diplomas aligns with workforce demand and regional priorities and reflects USC’s commitment to offer the very best higher education opportunities,” Professor Bartlett said.

The Diploma in Allied Health Assistance will be available at USC’s Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast campuses, while students can study the Diploma in Animal Ecology at the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast and Moreton Bay campuses.

Diplomas in Education (Early Childhood) and Education (Primary) are offered online. The Diploma in Education (Primary) can also be studied on campus at USC Fraser Coast.

USC’s Diploma in Business, previously only available to Study Abroad international students, will be offered on campus at Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Fraser Coast as well as online.

Each diploma comprises eight undergraduate subjects, and students who successfully complete them can choose to exit with a standalone qualification or apply for up to a year’s credit towards a USC undergraduate degree.

“As well as having the option to gain university-level knowledge and foundational skills to help secure employment in their desired fields, the diplomas will also help students realise their own strengths and capabilities for further higher education,” Professor Bartlett said.

“For those who decide to continue their academic journeys, and who meet the necessary requirements, there is a smooth pathway to advance towards gaining a degree.”