Online short courses support women to reach their goals
Western Sydney University is helping Greater Western Sydney students, including many talented women, to achieve their educational and career goals through a range of online short courses.
Developed in direct response to the Australian Government’s Higher Education Relief Package during the pandemic, the six-month online short courses or Undergraduate Certificates are continuing to assist in upskilling and retraining students.
Notably, 65 per cent of students enrolled in Undergraduate Certificates at The College last year were female with a high portion of these students residing in Greater Western Sydney.
One of the students to benefit from studying at The College is southwest Sydney resident Mary Ayoub.
Mary said she had been hesitant in the past to attempt a university qualification, but last year she built up the courage and applied.
Utilising her experience being involved in the family business for many years, Mary successfully completed an Undergraduate Certificate in Business Management and is now currently in her first unit of a Diploma.
“Studying at University has impacted the way I view situations, rather than seeing limitations as an obstacle, I’ve learnt to see them as challenges to rise above.”
Following her completion of an Undergraduate Certificate, Mary secured an exciting new position as a fraud analyst – a fast-pasted role in which she feels constantly challenged.
“The role requires fast thinking and a level head. I have been in this role for just over two months, and I’m still pinching myself at landing this incredible opportunity.”
Chief Executive Officer (Acting) of The College at Western Sydney University, Anthony Mitri, said as an anchor institution in the region, Western Sydney University is proud to provide students with a range of high-quality pathways to help them reach their goals.
“We’re incredibly proud at The College that short courses are benefitting a diverse range of students from Greater Western Sydney, including a high number of women who are looking to take the next step in their careers,” said Mr Mitri.
“The College prides itself on offering flexible and supportive learning environments and opportunities for further learning, which gives our students the confidence and tools to tackle a career change or to take that next step.”
“To assist them further, students are guaranteed a pathway to further study at the University on successful completion of these courses.”
As for Mary, she hopes in the future to complete a Bachelor of Business and progress to the level of manager within an organisation.
“Studying business at The College has given me the confidence and education to strive for roles that I could only dream about,” she said.
“I believe the commitment and care of the staff there, together with an incredibly well-rounded curriculum, play a major role in encouraging students.”
“I felt empowered and confident that I could achieve what I set out to and even surpass the original goals I had set for myself. Having the right support is everything.”
Western Sydney University’s pathway provider, The College, offers 11 undergraduate certificates that cover disciplines such as counselling and mental health, aged care and disability support, information and communications technology, and environmental sustainability.
For more information about The College and online short courses, attend Western Sydney University’s upcoming Open Day on Sunday, 14 August 2022.
Register here (opens in a new window) for Open Day. Visit The College web page (opens in a new window) for more course information.
ENDS
13 July 2022
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