National code: 11225NAT

Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation

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Overview About this course

This is a university preparation course also called TPC that gives you a tertiary entrance score and access to university without the HSC. Study academic writing, maths, science, statistics, humanities and English at a local college or online.

Outcomes What you'll gain

Learning outcomes

Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:

  • Write to an academic standard

  • Learn and apply new concepts and ideas

  • Develop research skills

  • Follow ethical practices and apply e-learning skills to study

  • Expand theoretical knowledge and gain practical skills

Course outcomes

Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.

  • A nationally recognised qualification at a Certificate IV level

  • A Tertiary Entrance Score (TES)

  • A year 12 equivalent qualification

  • Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities

Suitability Is this course right for you?

Entry requirements

This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol

  • Participate in an interview with a teacher to make sure this is the right course for you.

  • You may be asked to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) profile so that you can be placed into the right class and so that you can access appropriate support if needed.

Entry recommendations

To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:

  • The ability to learn independently

  • Access to a computer and the internet to conduct research

  • Sound technology skills

TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.

Pathways Future career and study options

Career pathways

Our graduates go onto roles like: admission to university by getting a Tertiary Entrance Score (TES), pursuing further study at Diploma level or above in the Vocational Education and Training sector or in science, technology, engineering and maths vocational areas, pursuing careers requiring a year 12 or equivalent qualification and entry to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Study pathways

Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:

Previous study 2 Courses

Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.

Further study 0 Courses

Advance your skills to take your career to the next level

The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation does not have any post-graduate courses.

Your experience counts

At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.

Units Units taught in this course

Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 10 units of competency, including 3 core and 7 speciality units.

Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.

Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.

  • Produce written and spoken texts for further study purposes NAT11225001

  • Apply critical language and research skills for further study purposes NAT11225002

  • Prepare for academic study NAT11224002

TAFE NSW services Facilities and support

TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.

  • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service

  • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support

  • TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)

  • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service

  • TAFE NSW Libraries

  • Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential

  • Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home

  • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

  • Student associations – get social with our student community

Study options Find a location to enrol

Choose from the below study options and locations to discover what works with your lifestyle. Heart your favourites and compare courses.