The Pathway Program Made the University Accessible for Me: Building the evidence about links between pathway programs and Indigenous student university completion

The Pathway Program Made the University Accessible for Me: Building the evidence about links between pathway programs and Indigenous student university completion

Academic achievement

Bronwyn Fredericks, Katelyn Barney, Tracey Bunda, Ash Moor, Scott Parlett, Kristen Hausia, Nisa Richy, Daniel Taylor-Griffiths

2025

English

Australia

Open Access

University completion rates for Indigenous students remain significantly lower than non-Indigenous students (UA, 2023). Pathway/enabling programs are central to preparing and transitioning Indigenous students into university and are the primary strategies for improving the readiness of prospective Indigenous students (Nakata & Nakata, 2023). However, high-quality research-based evidence of the impact of these programs in relation to supporting university completion is limited. In this presentation we will discuss findings from a recent Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success (ACSES) funded research project which focused on exploring Indigenous students’ experiences in pathway/enabling programs and potential correlations to university completion. Drawing on findings from interviews with Indigenous students, graduates and staff who work in pathway/enabling programs, we will discuss the benefits of pathway/enabling programs and the role of Indigenised curriculum and Indigenous units/centres to ensure a sense of belonging and connection. We will also share strategies developed as part of the project for teaching staff and leaders working in pathway/enabling programs to support Indigenous student transition, success and completion of university.

Edrina Adjei-Manu