Pathways

What is a pathway and how do they work?

A university pathway is a study option that can lead to your dream course. Pathways usually begin with a diploma or advanced diploma and eventually lead you to an undergraduate degree. Depending on the courses involved in the pathway, progressing to an undergraduate can take between six months and two years. 

Pathways can help you achieve your study goals, even if you don’t meet the course requirements for your ideal course. They can also help you gain additional credentials and experiences along the way, such as a certificate or diploma.

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Pathway options at RMIT

Transferring courses with pathways

Recognised/formal pathways also provide opportunities for you to transfer from one RMIT course to another. Being acknowledged for previous study may reduce the duration of your course and save you money. Previous studies may be recognised in one of two ways: 

  • completed or partly completed certificate, diploma and advanced diploma qualifications can be credited towards a degree 
  • partly completed degree studies may be credited to other RMIT courses. 

Difference between pathways and a Foundation course

Foundation studies have been developed and accredited by RMIT as an alternative to completing Australian Year 12 studies or international equivalent. Foundation studies allow you to enrol in one of six specialist streams of study designed to build your academic skills while focusing on your interests and goals. While similar to pathways, these courses are tailored for certain interest areas, while pathways follow a different structure and has a broader selection of options. 

If no formal pathways are available

Even if there are no formal pathways into a course, there are often other ways you can gain entry.

Depending on the course, this may include completing a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree, or undertaking recognised professional experience. To find out more, use our Pathway Finder or contact us to discuss your options.

Other entry options for undergraduate study

RMIT student, Anar

Pathways for international students

Coming from a partner institution or don’t meet the entry requirements for your preferred bachelor course? Explore pathways information.

Contact us for help with pathways

If you know what course you're hoping to study, you can speak to us to discuss any questions you have, including guidance on your pathway options.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.