Understanding Postgraduate Eligibility: Tertiary Entry Pathways
June 23, 2025
What is Postgraduate Eligibility and Why Does it Matter?
If you’ve ever browsed the IT Masters website, you may have noticed a page called “Am I eligible?” We’ve been asking this postgraduate eligibility question for nearly two decades — and many of our best students have come to us via this very pathway.
Traditionally, to start a postgraduate course, you needed an undergraduate degree or, in some cases, significant relevant work experience. While that may sound like a high bar, IT Masters makes postgraduate eligibility simpler and more accessible for professionals in the IT field or those looking to transition into it.
Who Qualifies? Understanding Postgraduate Eligibility Criteria
All our courses are 100% online, designed to fit around your schedule, and taught by seasoned industry professionals. In fact, many of our mentors studied with us along the way!
Work Experience as a Pathway
This is not some exclusive club — most of our students meet postgraduate eligibility requirements through their work experience. A strong CV can get you into a Graduate Certificate course, and from there, you can progress to a Masters degree.
Many students start by joining one or more of our free university short courses. These are taught using the same format as our Masters subjects, allowing you to build confidence and see how study at the postgraduate level feels.
Graduate Certificate in Computing (Career Transition)
If you don’t have direct IT experience, the Graduate Certificate in Computing (Career Transition) provides a pathway for those looking to move into the field after working in another industry. With just two years of relevant work experience in any profession, you may still meet postgraduate eligibility requirements.
Prior Study and Industry Certification
If you’ve completed university study previously, mention that on your eligibility form — it might qualify you for direct entry into a Masters course.
Certifications also count! Industry certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CCNA and many many more, are highly regarded. We’ve assessed over 200 of these as credit-worthy for our programs. You can check your certification using our Credit Finder.
How to Apply: Simple Steps to Confirm Your Postgraduate Eligibility
he process is straightforward. To begin, fill in the postgraduate eligibility form and include:
- At least 2 years of relevant work experience – whether IT related or not.
- Details of any previous tertiary education.
- Any industry certifications you hold.
Once you submit the form, our eligibility guru Anna will review your details and get back to you. Most of the time, it’s a yes! From there, Anna or one of our course advisors can help you plan your study journey — including when to start, what subjects to take, how to maximise credits, and how to make the most of funding opportunities like Commonwealth Supported Places.
If you’re interested in submitting your application directly to CSU check out our How to Apply page for instructions on how to fill out and submit your application.
Take the First Step Towards Postgraduate Study
Ready to move forward? Brush up your resume and fill in the postgraduate eligibility form — a new career direction could be just a few clicks away.
Get your Eligibility Assessment today!
