Uni versus VET
Charles Darwin University is a dual sector university - meaning it offers both Uni degrees (higher education) and VET courses. There are a number of differences between higher education and VET courses. Here are a few you may like to consider...
Higher education
- Some professionals - including teachers, lawyers and doctors - require a university-level qualification (bachelor degree) to practice
- Higher education has a more theoretical approach to learning and study
- At university, you attend lectures that cover the theory. Then you attend tutorials and labs to discuss what was covered in the lecture, and do more practical work
- In higher education, you will initially complete a bachelor degree. These take longer to complete than VET qualifications.
VET
- Some professions require a VET qualification, such as chefs, electricians and hairdressers
- VET courses are more hands-on and practical
- VET has classes and workshops
- VET courses offer everything from certificate I, II, III, IV, diploma or advanced diplomas. You can also do traineeships and apprenticeships through VET.
So, what’s right for you? Consider the following:
- Do you like to read a lot and are you good at writing essays? Yes? These skills will help enormously in higher education courses.
- Are you more of a ‘hands-on’ person who likes to experience things first-hand? Yes? This can-do attitude is right for VET.
- Do you want to be working in your chosen vocation while you’re studying? Yes? VET offers traineeships and apprenticeships.
- Are you prepared to commit three years or longer to study? Yes? A higher education degree usually takes a minimum of three years.
- Are you concerned that you won’t get the required grades for uni? Yes? VET qualifications can be used as a pathway into higher education.
To discuss what option might be best for you, call our Information Centre on 1800 061 963.
