Age is no barrier to university. Central Queensland University offers two highly sought after programs – STEPS and WIST – which prepare adult learners for entry into university.

A seminar will be held at the CQU Rockhampton Open Day on Sunday, August 14, from noon to 1pm in building 33, G.22, to showcase what these two programs can do for new adult learners.

STEPS (Skills in Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies) is a practical pathway to higher education providing mature-age students with the necessary skills to succeed at university.

STEPS Coordinator in Rockhampton Julie Willans said innovation and practicality were the essence of the program.

“STEPS showed me I can do it,” explained one STEPS participant. "I wanted more and I thought I had more to offer and STEPS has opened the doors ... given me more choices.”.

The program is a 13-week full-time or 26-week part-time program. The program provides teaching in language and learning, mathematics, computing for academic assignment writing and university preparatory studies.

CQU has also provided over 3000 women with the opportunity for a career in non-traditional fields through its WIST (Women is Science and Technology) program.

WIST is a bridging program which gives women the basic skills needed to apply for university entry and succeed in a career.

The program is recognised by universities nation-wide as a pre-requisite course for undergraduate studies, provides students with access to TAFE and also has been used as preparation for employment tests.

The program is a home-based, self-paced program that focuses on English, Science, Mathematics and Computing for women.

The program caters for women who may not have finished year 12, may need help with literacy, numeracy and computing, and may need to study from home due to work and family commitments.