High school students in the Gympie area keen to start their tertiary studies early are invited to a special information session at USC's Gympie campus from 5.30-6.30pm on Thursday 26 March.

USC will outline its award-winning Headstart program that enables Year 11 and 12 students to study university-level subjects and gain credits towards their Queensland Certificate of Education and a USC degree at the same time.

Event organiser Angeline Medland said students and their parents can find out about eligibility, the application process, study costs, scholarships and what to expect from Headstart. There will also be the opportunity to meet USC staff and ask questions.

“Headstart allows high school students to broaden their education and life experience by studying interesting subjects alongside university students on campus,” said Angeline.

“At USC Gympie there are courses in business, communication, education, health and social sciences available. High school students who complete two Headstart courses are guaranteed entry into most USC degrees, provided any prerequisites are satisfied.

“The other advantage is that when they begin studying at uni full time, they will have already completed two first-year courses and really will have a big headstart on their classmates.”

Gympie State High School Year 12 student Chaise Mallett, 16, completed one Headstart course at USC Gympie last year and has just started her second course this year.

Chaise (pictured), who plans to study Primary Education at USC next year, will speak at the information session about her Headstart experience and will be available to answer questions.

Applications to participate in Headstart in Semester 2 (starting late July) close in May.

The USC Gympie campus is at 71 Cartwright Road, Gympie.

To register your attendance or for more information visit Headstart or call USC Gympie on 5456 5800.

— Jane Cameron