- Overview
- Aboriginal Bridging Course
- Aboriginal Health Courses
- Indigenous Australian Cultural Studies Program
- Community Management Courses
- Indigenous Tertiary Enabling Course
- Bachelor of Education Conversion
- Postgraduate Study
- Timetables
Aboriginal Bridging Course (ABC)
Read the Curtin Courses Handbook entry for this course
This course immerses students in the University environment and prepares them for mainstream studies. Its objectives are:
- to provide students with the necessary skills to assist them in making the transition into University undergraduate degree programs,
- to develop within them a positive sense of Aboriginal identity and self-esteem,
- to enhance their employment potential as graduates,
- to achieve a greater empowerment and self-determination in the context of the wider community,
- to benefit the long term management of students’ individual communities
Since the course was established in 1976 it has helped hundreds of Aboriginal students enter university.
Course Strategies
To achieve its objectives the course:
- Develops in students independent learning, study techniques and communication skills suitable for University study
- Provides student counselling, support services and facilities
Cultural diversity is embraced by:
- Exposing students to cultural commonalities
- Encouraging students to recognise their own cultural backgrounds
- Being aware of different cultural perspectives
- Engaging with contemporary social and cultural issues
Eligibility
Applicants must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent*. Mature-age people are actively encouraged to apply.
* The Centre for Aboriginal Studies reserves the right to request recognised proof of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander identity.
Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other essential study materials.
A $20 levy is charged per student to help cover the costs of lecture photocopying and providing some texts.
Program Philosophy
The Aboriginal Bridging Course supports students as they build bridges between Culture and Academia: bridges which bring a variety of opportunities within reach. Educational, employment and training options become available, along with an enhanced sense of cultural identity within the Indigenous Australian community.