Head Start

The Head Start program provides Year 11 and 12 students who have the capability, maturity and motivation an opportunity to study a USQ course prior to finishing high school. Head Start students will be included in normal lectures and classes, where they will be welcomed as a normal university student.

Head Start courses are offered to students who wish to study on-campus at Springfield, Toowoomba and Fraser Coast. We also provide students with the opportunity to study externally. Each Faculty provides students with the opportunity to study within their area of interest.

Students have the option to study in Semesters 1 and 2. The duration of each semester is 12 weeks which includes mid semester break and exams.

Where can I find out more about Head Start?

For more detailed information about the Head Start program, view our current Head Start Brochure (610 KB).

Or please feel free to contact the Head Start Coordinator, Nicole Klein or phone 1800 640 678.

Who is eligible to participate in Head Start?

All students who are Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens or Australian permanent residents who are completing Year 11 or 12 in 2010 are eligible to apply.

Students will be able to enrol only in those courses and modes of offer nominated by the participating USQ Faculties, up to the quota limits set by the Faculties. Enrolment will be on a first come basis and will be limited to one course per semester.

Students have to display a 'B' average on their latest report card.

Which students are best suited to the Head Start program?

Students should:

have a strong interest in the course matter of their proposed subject of study
be capable of undertaking the study successfully in addition to their current workload
have the support of their school and parents/guardians.

In particular students who would like to check out USQ as their potential preferred education provider in the future will benefit from this opportunity.

Will involvement in Head Start adversely affect student's Year 12 results?

This is a matter that deserves careful consideration. The decision to be involved in the Head Start program will depend on individual circumstances. Many students' university aspirations may be best served by concentrating on getting the best OP possible for university entry.

A decision to join the Head Start program is no different to considering the effect of other commitments in the final year of high school such as sporting and cultural pursuits, paid employment, involvement in other vocational studies etc. USQ recommends interested students consult widely with parents and school personnel.

I decided to take part in the USQ Head Start program in order to provide me with an idea of what uni would be like. I really enjoyed being able to interact with other students, the lecturers and the hands on research seminars. The Head Start program is a great idea and the staff are very friendly and willing to help.

Kirsten MacGregor