Fraser Coast residents who are keen to begin their higher education journey this year can apply for mid-year entry at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Applications are now open to study degrees in Nursing Science, Marketing, Accounting, Human Services and Primary Education at USC’s Fraser Coast campus, starting Semester 2 on 25 July.

The University will host a Meet USC event tomorrow (Wednesday 22 June) from 1-4pm for those wanting to explore their study options.

Hayden Baker, 22, of Kawungan, is among almost 120 people who have already applied and received offers for mid-year places at USC Fraser Coast.

He will begin a Bachelor of Nursing Science next semester, after working in retail at the Gold Coast and Hervey Bay and studying aged care at TAFE.

“The opportunity to start mid-year suited so much better work-wise, and it allows me to get my nursing career underway as soon as possible,” said Hayden, who recently attended a Getting Started at USC session for commencing students.

Hayden said becoming a nurse appealed to his nature. “I believe I will enjoy taking care of people and seeing them get better,” he said.

He said he chose to study at USC Fraser Coast on the recommendation of friends who were enrolled in the program. “They love the nursing courses on offer at the Fraser Coast and encouraged me to enrol,” he said.

USC Manager of Student Recruitment Elisa Reeves said mid-year entry was ideal for those who have taken some time off after finishing school, as well as for people considering a career change or enhancing their existing qualifications.

“Whether a recent school leaver or more senior, people don’t have to wait until Semester 1 next year to start their higher education journey,” Mrs Reeves said.

Mrs Reeves said USC’s free award-winning university bridging program, Tertiary Preparation Pathway, (TPP), was also available in Semester 2.

"TPP is a great alternative entry option for people who may not believe they are eligible for university or who want to upgrade their study skills before beginning undergraduate degrees next year,” she said.

USC’s main campus at Sippy Downs also offers mid-year entry in almost 90 undergraduate and postgraduate study programs. These include Creative Industries, Design, Engineering, Health, Humanities, Information Technology, Psychology, Science and Social Sciences.

Details on how to apply to study at USC can be found at www.usc.edu.au or by contacting USC Fraser Coast’s Student Administration on (07) 4128 5200 or information@usc.edu.au

— Clare McKay