TAFE students

Step into what's next with our Connected Pathways Program

Connected Pathways is your dedicated Next Step program between TAFE NSW and Charles Sturt. We'll help you build on your career in social work, human services, nursing or education. And your TAFE NSW study could count towards your degree – saving you time and money.*

How it works*

Step 1

Check your eligibility

You'll qualify if you are a TAFE NSW domestic student who is very close to completing (or have completed) one of the following.

Certificate IV in Education SupportCHC40225
Diploma of Community ServicesCHC52025
Diploma of CounsellingCHC51015
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and CareCHC50125
Diploma of Nursing HLT54121
Diploma of Youth WorkCHC50425

Or, if you have completed an equivalent qualification in the last ten years.

Step 3

Register for our Next Steps experience

Get a head start on your uni journey before classes even begin with our free, three-day, on-campus workshop:

  • What to expect: Unpack how TAFE NSW learning flows through to study at Charles Sturt University. Meet your lecturers, advisers and scholarship teams. Connect with former TAFE NSW students who have successfully transitioned to Charles Sturt.
  • When: Multiple sessions will run across November and December 2026.
  • Next Steps Program - First Nations focus: Two of the Next Steps programs are dedicated for First Nations students, highlighting dedicated First Nations support services.
  • Perks: Meals, accommodation and reasonable travel costs are covered for eligible NSW students.
Step 4

Apply for and start your chosen course

  • You can apply online in less than 15 minutes.
  • Your previous TAFE NSW study may earn you credit towards your degree.^
  • Shave up to two years off your degree based on that credit.^
  • Save on tuition fees based on your reduced study time.
Step 5

Get dedicated support while you study

You don't have to navigate your transition to uni alone:

  • Connected Pathways advisers: Get personalised support for academic skills, scholarship applications and career planning.
  • First Nations Student Connect: Access ongoing culturally grounded guidance and support.
  • Student Connect sessions: Drop in to meet fellow students and build your network

Ready to get started?

Questions?

We're here to help! Please contact the Connected Pathways Team at connectedpathways@csu.edu.au or a dedicated First Nations Student Adviser by emailing firstnations@csu.edu.au

Get some Insight

*Places are subject to eligibility requirements and availability. The Connected Pathways Program is available for domestic students only.
^Up to two years of credit may be available depending on your TAFE qualification and chosen degree. Guaranteed credit applies to approved pathway combinations (for example, nursing to nursing). Students changing study areas are still eligible to participate in Connected Pathways, with guaranteed entry, access to dedicated support services and the Next Steps program, and may be assessed for credit based on prior study.