TAFEWA or university?

Many people will question which is best - TAFEWA or university?

For some people that is an easy decision, but for others a little more thought is required.

What is the Difference?

Both TAFEWA and university have their advantages. Rather than one or the other, the two forms of training should be considered as different but complementing each other. You are not limited to choosing one option.

TAFEWA training is very practical and job oriented, whereas university training is more theoretical. Some TAFEWA graduates go on to further study at university and some university graduates enrol in TAFEWA to improve or gain practical skills.

TAFEWA as a Pathway to University

Universities will generally accept a completed TAFEWA Diploma or Advanced Diploma as meeting the entry requirements for a related course at university, often with Advanced Standing.

With one year of advanced standing, a TAFEWA graduate may enter university with exemptions from some first year units, effectively reducing the time required to finish a degree.

In some instances a Certificate IV level qualification may provide entry to university.

Why Choose TAFEWA?

The number of people choosing to study at TAFEWA is increasing. Some advantages of choosing TAFEWA include:

• Practical training
• Costs less than university training
• No HECS debts are associated with learning with TAFEWA as all fees are paid up-front

Furthermore, industry assists TAFEWA by providing input into training development to ensure graduates leave with the skills that employers are looking for.

The number of places offered at TAFEWA courses is governed by current and projected industry needs, so TAFEWA usually does not train more people than can be employed in the current job market.

Going to TAFEWA before University

TAFEWA graduates are also generally better prepared for university studies than students entering direct from secondary school. They are more mature, have developed their tertiary study skills, and have gained a lot of practical skills which aid understanding of the theory to be learned at university. There is also a potential for saving on HECS debts by gaining advanced standing.

Thinking of Going to TAFEWA? Consider Swan TAFE…

With our wide range of qualifications on offer, Swan TAFE can help with your practical training needs to start a great career, or be a step to entering university, or to boost your university qualifications with practical skills.

At Swan TAFE you will be trained by lecturers who have valuable work experience in their respective industries.

For more information phone (08) 9267 7500 or send an email to info.centre@swantafe.wa.edu.au.