The Journal of Developing Areas

This study presents data collected from students commencing an enabling program at an Australian university in 2013. Students were asked to identify the three most important reasons for them undertaking the program. The responses identified focussed on four main factors: future educational and career aspirations; a desire to have new experiences; the need for new skills and knowledge; and academic and personal support needs. Results showed that younger students straight from school saw the program as an opportunity to secure entry to their degree of choice. Mature students who had a gap of some years in their education career saw the opportunity offered through the enabling program more in regard to gaining new skills and experiencing university study before embarking on their full degree program.