Diplomas delivered by universities introduce students to the academic culture of university study and often provide a pathway into bachelor degree studies. Successful completion of a pathway diploma indicates that the student has the ability to complete a university course (Norton, 2019), and helps students prepare for their future studies in a bachelor course (Cherastidtham et al., 2018). While pathway diplomas are believed to benefit graduates, there is a dearth of research on the impact of university pathway diplomas on students’ academic lives. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to investigate: (a) the perceived impact of the diploma on students’ academic studies; (b) the teaching and learning activities that students find helpful, and how do they use support services; and (c) the success rate of diploma graduates compared to undergraduate students without a completed SCU diploma.
This study employs a parallel mixed design involving the simultaneous collection of quantitative and qualitative data, integrating accounts of lived experience alongside institutional data. Participants complete an online survey and participate in focus groups. Participants largely reported that learning and teaching activities were very useful throughout their diploma. The majority of participants highly valued opportunities for independent learning, but found group activities less valuable. They were strategic in the support they sought from each other, their tutors and from the university while acknowledging the instrumental role the support played in their ability to continue with their studies. Importantly, quantitative data shows diploma graduates have higher success rates than undergraduate students without a completed SCU diploma. The data from this research study provide a compelling picture of SCU College pathway diplomas’ ability to develop students’ skills and build confidence in their ability to successfully complete their studies at Southern Cross.
Cherastidtham, I., Norton, A., & Mackey, W. (2018). University attrition: what helps and what hinders university completion? Grattan Institute.
Norton, A. (2019). Grattan Institute submission to the Commonwealth consultation on Commonwealth supported places for enabling, sub-bachelor and postgraduate courses. Grattan Institute. https://www.education.gov.au/system/files/documents/document-file/2020-12/grattan.pdf