The delivery of university and VET fully integrated degree programs

Abstract

The University of New England (UNE) and TAFE New England (TNE) commenced delivery of an innovative integrated degrees program in community health in trimester 1, 2014. The degrees will allow students to engage in simultaneous, integrated Vocational Education and Training (VET) and university study leading to both VET and degree qualifications. The outcome of the study program allows students to integrate their study and WIL experience by supporting a sequential, embedded accomplishment of qualifications. The differences in processes and philosophies between VET and Higher Education institutions in relation to WIL have kept the delivery of this kind of study separated, but integration has now become more achievable due to the extension of AQF compliance to the higher education sector. Students in the dual-sector degrees have welcomed the skill-based practical work involved with VET education while learning the theoretical concepts of their university education with a single enrolment. The need for a more seamless engagement with VET and university study is becoming more urgent and there are a large number of possibilities to explore. This paper identifies some of the key issues and proposes some solutions.