Tertiary Education or Higher Education?
Both terms are often used interchangeably, but they do have some differences.
- Higher education refers to education beyond the secondary level, typically offered by universities and colleges. It includes undergraduate degrees (such as bachelor’s degrees) and postgraduate degrees (such as master’s and doctoral degrees). In other words, higher education is a subset of tertiary education.
- Tertiary education, on the other hand, refers to all types of education beyond secondary education, including vocational education and training (VET) and adult and community education. It encompasses a wide range of courses and programs, including diplomas, certificates, and short courses.
History, Present Status & Importance
The early development of tertiary education in Australia was largely driven by the need to provide skilled professionals and leaders for the rapidly growing colony. The University of Sydney, which was the first university to be established in Australia, was founded in 1850 with the aim of providing higher education to the colony’s elite.
In the early 20th century, the number of tertiary institutions in Australia began to expand, with new universities being established in different states. The vocational education and training (VET) sector also began to grow during this period, offering training in trades and other vocational skills.
The government has played a significant role in funding and regulating the tertiary education system in Australia. The Commonwealth government’s involvement in the sector began in the 1950s, with the establishment of the Australian Universities Commission. This body was responsible for providing funding to universities and advising the government on matters related to higher education.
Current State of Tertiary Education in Australia
Today, Australia’s tertiary education system is a diverse and dynamic sector, comprising universities, VET providers, and private higher education providers. According to the Department of Education, Skills and Employment, there were over 1.5 million students enrolled in tertiary education in Australia in 2020, with around 42% of those enrolled in higher education institutions.
In recent years, the tertiary education sector in Australia has experienced several significant changes, including the growth of online learning and the increasing popularity of non-traditional education pathways such as microcredentials. However, the sector also faces challenges, such as funding constraints and changing job markets.
Economic Benefits of Tertiary Education
They are simply significant. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), individuals with a tertiary qualification have higher employment rates and earn more on average than those without a qualification. In addition, the tertiary education sector is a major contributor to the country’s economy, accounting for 1.8% of GDP and employing over 240,000 people in 2019.
The government has recognized the importance of tertiary education to the economy and has implemented several policies aimed at supporting the sector. For example, the government provides funding to universities and VET providers through the Higher Education Support Act and the VET Student Loans program, respectively.
Importance of Tertiary Education to Australian Society
Tertiary education also has significant social benefits. Studies have shown that individuals with higher levels of education have better health outcomes, are more likely to participate in civic activities, and have greater social mobility. In addition, tertiary education contributes to social cohesion and cultural diversity, with many international students choosing to study in Australia.
The government has acknowledged the importance of access to tertiary education as a means of advancing social equity. In recent years, the government has introduced policies aimed at increasing access to tertiary education for disadvantaged groups, such as low-income students and Indigenous Australians.
Types of Tertiary Institutions in Australia
Australia’s tertiary education system is made up of a range of different institutions, each with its own distinct focus and offerings. In this article, we will describe the three main types of tertiary institutions in Australia: universities, vocational education and training (VET) providers, and private higher education providers.
I. Universities
Universities are the most well-known type of tertiary institution in Australia, and are typically considered the most prestigious. They offer a wide range of courses and qualifications, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as research opportunities.
Source: studyaustralia.gov.au, 2023
There are 43 universities in Australia, both public and private, spread across the country. The Group of Eight (Go8) is a coalition of Australia’s eight leading research universities, which includes the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, and the Australian National University.
Most universities in Australia are funded by the government, and are subject to strict quality assurance processes to ensure that they maintain high academic standards. They also have a strong emphasis on research and innovation, with many receiving funding from government bodies and private sector organizations.
II. Vocational Education and Training (VET) Providers
VET providers offer courses and qualifications that focus on practical skills and vocational training. These include certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas in a range of industries, such as hospitality, construction, and automotive technology.
VET providers are typically more affordable than universities, and often offer flexible study options such as online and part-time courses. They also have strong links to industry, with many courses designed in collaboration with employers to ensure that graduates have the skills and knowledge needed for the workforce.
There are over 4,000 VET providers in Australia, both public and private, with TAFE (Technical and Further Education) being the largest public provider. VET providers are funded by the government, with students eligible for government subsidies to help cover the cost of tuition fees.
III. Private Higher Education Providers
Private higher education providers are institutions that offer higher education courses and degrees, similar to universities. However, they are not publicly funded by the government and are operated by private organizations or individuals.
Private higher education providers in Australia are subject to the same regulatory standards as public universities, including registration with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), which ensures that all providers meet national standards for course quality, teaching and learning, and student support services.
Private higher education providers may offer more specialized courses or programs that are not available at public universities. They may also offer more flexible study options, such as online or part-time courses, which can be beneficial for students who are working or have other commitments. Private higher education providers may also offer smaller class sizes and more personalized attention for students, which can be advantageous for students who prefer a more tailored learning experience.
Private higher education providers in Australia charge tuition fees that are typically higher than public universities. However, they may offer scholarships or other forms of financial assistance to help students cover the cost of their education. Additionally, private higher education providers may have a different fee structure than public universities, such as a fee-per-subject system, which allows students to pay for each course as they take it, rather than paying for an entire degree upfront.