The University of Adelaide College

The University of Adelaide College is a preferred pathway provider for Adelaide University. Opening in 2026, Adelaide University will combine the unique strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia. The Group of Eight are recognised as Australia's leading research-intensive universities and Adelaide University aims to be sustainably ranked in the top one per cent of higher education institutions worldwide.

Upon successful completion of a pathway program at the University of Adelaide College, students are guaranteed entry into Adelaide University. With over 20 years of success in preparing students for the University of Adelaide, the College is proud to continue its tradition of excellence in partnership with Adelaide University. Located in the heart of the city of Adelaide, the College ensures that all students receive the support they need to progress onto degree programs at Adelaide University.

The University of Adelaide College is part of Kaplan, a renowned global education provider. With over 80 years of experience, Kaplan supports over one million students annually and partners with thousands of universities, schools, and employers worldwide. Kaplan's ongoing investment in educational innovation, technology, and facilities ensures that students benefit from high-quality learning experiences that are adaptable, inclusive, and future-focused.

Together, Kaplan and the University of Adelaide College meaningfully contribute to the global education landscape by preparing students for academic success.

The programs at The University of Adelaide College are designed to bridge the academic and cultural gap between school and university, supporting students as they transition into rigorous tertiary study. With a curriculum closely aligned to the University's expectations, and delivered in a supportive, student-centred environment, the College enables students to build the confidence, capability and independence needed for long-term academic success. 

The partnership with a Group of Eight university has enabled the College to continually refine and strengthen its programs, providing students with the critical thinking, research skills and academic discipline required to thrive at one of Australia's top institutions. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to excellence and equity in higher education and has resulted in enhanced student outcomes across South Australia. 

The University of Adelaide College offers Foundation Studies, Degree Transfer and Pre-Master's Programs.

Foundation Studies Programs

The foundation studies programs provide students with a pathway into the first year of a bachelor's degree at Adelaide University. The programs are suited to those who have completed the equivalent of Australian year 11 and or have missed out on direct entry to Adelaide University. The foundation studies programs can provide pathways into aviation, business, IT, engineering, medicine, nursing and many more degrees at Adelaide University.

Degree Transfer Programs

The degree transfer programs are equivalent to the first year of a bachelor's degree at university. The programs are suited to those who have completed the equivalent of Australia Year 12 or a foundation studies program at the college. After successful completion, students will join the second year of their degree. Students can follow the path to a range of undergraduate degrees in business, IT, health and biomedical sciences, computer science, science and many more.

Pre-Master's Programs

Students who successfully complete their pre-master's program will have guaranteed entry to their chosen master's degree at Adelaide University. This program is suited for students who have completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent.

The University of Adelaide College offers a wide range courses within each pathway program. All programs have compulsory courses to complete. Students will be able to choose from a range of elective courses to suit their degree destination. Some of these are listed below:

Foundation Studies Programs

• Australian Studies
• Accounting
• Economics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computing and Information Systems
• General Mathematics
• Physics
• Management
• Mathematical Methods

Degree Transfer Programs

• Accounting
• Economics
• Statistics
• Computing
• Programming
• Core Maths
• Engineering Maths
• Physics
• Biology
• Chemistry

Pre-Master's Programs

Students will have the flexibility of studying a pre-master's program in one to three study periods. In the first bridging semester, students develop their English academic language skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking as well as research and study skills.

Students enrolled in the trimester-based master's destinations will study three university courses, while semester-based master's destinations study four university courses.

The Barr Smith library houses a wide range of collections and learning resources in addition to online journal access, computer rooms, reading rooms and support for digital learning. The staff are friendly and even offer tutorials on research skills.

Student Union

The student union is available to help with everything from signing up to a club to finding legal help. Students can also get involved in the student radio or the student union's fortnightly newspaper. 

Fitness Hub

At Fitness Hub, students can de-stress with a workout or even join a sports team. All students receive a discounted membership.

The Writing Centre

The writing centre helps students improve their grasp of the English language. The centre hosts seminars and has also got an invaluable library of online resources that students should check out for pointers on writing assignments.

University Health

The university health centre has a professional team of staff working to give students help and advice.

The University of Adelaide College website has more details on English entry requirements for the different programs offered. If the student has not achieved the required test score, they will be required to enrol into an English language program.

There are plenty of reasons for students to choose The University of Adelaide College as their preferred study destination which include: