High school leavers and individuals seeking a career change will be able to access one of Flinders University’s most popular pathways to university, the Flinders Foundation Studies program, from Munno Para’s Stretton Centre in 2020.

Currently over 2,000 students from the northern suburbs are studying across a range of disciplines at Flinders University. However, for many people location can be a barrier to accessing tertiary education, which is why it is important to have university presence in Playford.

When Kelei Deng commenced the Flinders Foundation Studies program in 2012 while living in the northern suburbs of Adelaide, it meant a two hour bus journey, on two buses to travel to classes in Bedford Park.

According to Kelei the long journey was worthwhile. After completing foundation studies she went on to study a Bachelor of Arts with International Relations and Business.

“Doing foundation studies helped me get ahead of other university students as I gained practical skills such as how to structure an essay and reference, which gave me the confidence to become a leader in some of my classes,” said Kelei.

However, Kelei acknowledges that the distance is too great a barrier for many.

“University opens new doors for you, I’m glad others living in northern Adelaide won’t have to experience the long bus trek to complete their foundation studies like I did,” she said.

The program is free to eligible applicants, with no prerequisites and successful graduates are guaranteed entry into a selection of undergraduate courses delivered by Flinders University.

Two Flinders Foundation Studies programs will run from the Stretton Centre in 2020, the second semester commences on Tuesday, 7 July.

To learn more or to apply visit: flinders.edu.au/foundation