Three ways RMIT Foundation Studies nurtures success

Three ways RMIT Foundation Studies nurtures success

RMIT Foundation Studies is chosen by international students all over the world as their pathway to higher education. Developing your foundational knowledge and skills from day one, the program goes far beyond being a way into your dream course.

Designed specifically for international students, RMIT Foundation Studies is a pathway to higher study at RMIT University, both at vocational and undergraduate levels.

Giving students the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for future academic and career success, RMIT Foundation Studies allows you to build the core foundations for your discipline area, university life, and your career.

If you’re currently thinking about your study options or how you can maximise your learning at RMIT University in Melbourne, below are three key benefits of the RMIT Foundation Studies program. 

To give you a full picture of what Foundation Studies is all about, former Foundation Studies student, Marco from Indonesia, shares how his experience within the Communications and Social Context Foundation Studies stream prepared him to undertake a Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) at RMIT.

RMIT student headshot
During my time in RMIT Foundation Studies, my biggest highlight was my peers and fellow students, some of whom have turned into my friends.

#1: Learning the fundamentals: knowledge and skills 

You’ll develop a solid understanding of your chosen study area, with the following six Foundation Studies streams to choose from:

  • Art, Design and Architecture
  • Business
  • Communication and Social Context
  • Engineering and Science
  • Health
  • Information Technology (IT)

Comparable in standard to an Australian Year 12 curriculum, RMIT Foundation Studies provides a solid grounding in knowledge and skills to transition into further study at RMIT as you follow your desired career path.

"RMIT Foundation Studies has been a stepping stone to my future studies. It acts as a bridge for us to understand how RMIT’s curriculum and learning system works, what’s expected of us, and what we can expect from the university," Marco said.

"There are a few skills that I feel RMIT UP has helped me refine with the courses I’ve completed during my time. One such skill would be the ability to analyse and interpret. Another would be essay writing, as, throughout my time in Foundation Studies, I have written ample essays for assessments. Whether it was an analytical or narrative essay, these tasks have heightened my skills in the appropriate formatting, writing, and referencing in essays."

#2: Easing into uni life: find your groove in Melbourne 

Transitioning from high school to university is a big step for every student’s personal development. Add in a move away from your home country, and you have quite a bit to juggle as an international student. But at RMIT and in the Foundation Studies program, you’re supported from day one so that you can adjust to your new student lifestyle with ease.

"Starting out was intimidating, with a new city, culture, and life. Fortunately, that feeling disappeared as my first semester began, with orientation easing most of my inquiries. Student Services have been very helpful in handling any technical issues I’ve had, but the most support I’ve received from RMIT would be from the Wellbeing team," Marco said.

"Another highlight that I’ve valued in undertaking Foundation Studies, would be my newfound independence. Indeed, for the first time, I and many other international students have split away from our families and home country. I had to hold myself accountable, wake up in time for classes, look after myself, and spend responsibly. That real-world experience of being a responsible adult is critical to our future."

#3: Developing relationships: make friends and learn from your teachers

Like all RMIT courses and programs, RMIT Foundation Studies provides a welcoming and friendly learning environment, focusing on ensuring students get the support from their teachers to develop a deep understanding of the principles being taught and the chance to master their study habits from day one.

While you focus on developing your foundational knowledge, you’ll have ample opportunity to interact with your classmates and establish friendships with other students. By starting out together, you’ll be able to support one another throughout your studies at RMIT, and as you begin your career after you graduate.

As an RMIT Foundation Studies student, you can also get involved in the many clubs and societies that the university offers. Make sure you check out RMIT Kirrip, it’s the perfect community for students to connect, make friends and explore Melbourne.

"During my time in RMIT Foundation Studies, my biggest highlight was my peers and fellow students, some of whom have turned into my friends. I struggled with social anxiety back in my home country, though ever since coming to Melbourne, I’ve become much better at meeting people. I’ve pushed myself to learn about others, their backgrounds, their identities, and their interests, and with that, I feel that we often learn a lot when we are eager to interact with each other," Marco said.

"Coming to a new city might be daunting, but you’ll come to enjoy it by taking in the sights, treating yourself to a nice meal once in a while, or socialising with others.

"Foundation Studies prepares us for what’s to come [in further study at university], but also lets us become acquainted with the city around us, the culture, the ideas, and the people. It allows us to befriend others and understand that we are now transitioning to young adults. By the time we graduate from RMIT proper, we will be ready."

Discover more about RMIT Foundation Studies today.

Story: Jacqueline Guldon

 

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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.

More information