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FAST

Foundation Access Studies Program

The University of Ballarat Foundation Access Studies Program (FAST) is a full time program over one semester, designed to prepare students for study in a degree level course at the University of Ballarat. The FAST Program is designed to provide alternative entry to tertiary study at UB.

FAST allows prospective students to experience university study while giving them enough skills and confidence to undertake degree level studies in the following semester.

FAST has been designed to enable people who do not hold prerequisites for entry to a degree course with the requirements they need to gain access to a higher degree course. People who have not been selected into a higher education course or people who are returning to study can use FAST to develop the skills, attitudes and knowledge to confirm their decision about university study. The FAST program will not remove all the difficulties you may face in attempting university study, but it will provide a stimulating and challenging opportunity to test yourself, and possibly find a new direction in life.

If you wish to apply for selection into FAST, you will need to complete an application form and attend an interview. FAST is offered only on a full time basis and only domestic students - that is, only Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens or students with permanent resident status - are eligible for selection into FAST. Selection is made according to your academic ability to succeed in FAST and your commitment to study in a degree level course at UB after completing FAST. Your skills and qualifications will be assessed to determine whether FAST is the best means for you to access your chosen degree of study. In accordance with University of Ballarat equity policies, when assessing your academic ability, the selection officers take into account whether you may be at any disadvantage as a consequence of:
 

  • Being from a low socio- economic background
  • Being from rural or isolated backgrounds
  • Being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
  • Being women in non- traditional areas
  • Being away from non- English speaking backgrounds
  • Having a disability

FAST comprises six units and all units need to be passed in order to obtain a pass in the FAST course. Details of these units are set out in the FAST Handbook.

Students who pass the FAST course are guaranteed to obtain a place at the University of Ballarat in a course of study within the range of courses offered by the University in its higher education sector. Please note that this does not mean that students completing FAST will necessarily obtain admission to a specific degree level course of their choice - some courses require all applicants to attend an interview and may require them to demonstrate commitment or personal qualities related to that chosen field of study. However, any student who completes FAST will be offered a place in some course, related to their interests and abilities, at the University level. Prospective students are advised to check with the specific School for details about their preferred course of study and any additional entry requirements.

It is anticipated that in 2009 there will be a February and a July intake into the FAST program. Prospective applicants must complete a University of Ballarat Direct Entry Application Form (Higher Education), which will be available to download from 31 August 2008.

Application Information for Prospective Students.

FAST  Handbook  

Further FAST Information

FAST Fees Information

FAST Assignment Cover Sheet  (to be used when handing in work)

Campus Map

 

BLASKETT, Beverley (Dr) b.blaskett@ballarat.edu.auPhone (03) 53279632 FAST Co-ordinator