Program Overview

Introduction to The Academy at Western

The Academy at Western is a unique program designed for students who are driven to make a difference in the world. It provides a platform for like-minded individuals to come together, create a real impact in their community, and develop academically, personally, and professionally.

Program Overview

The Academy offers exclusive access to Western Sydney University (WSU) events, conferences, masterclasses, paid internships, and mentoring opportunities. Students will have the chance to meet with industry leaders and learn from their experiences. The program aims to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow and provide them with the skills to shape their future.

Benefits of The Academy

• Develop academic, personal, and professional skills
• Gain access to exclusive events, conferences, and masterclasses
• Participate in paid internships and mentoring opportunities
• Learn from industry leaders and like-minded students
• Enhance creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Gain real-world experience through projects and international partnerships
• Develop leadership skills through community engagement and academic rigor

Admission Criteria

To join The Academy, students must meet the following criteria:

• 20 hours of community participation
• An ATAR of 80+ (including bonus points) for future students, or a GPA of 5.0 or above for current Western students
• An impact statement
  • Note: Students with a GPA of 6.0 or above are not required to meet the 20 hours of community participation criteria, but it is encouraged to strengthen their application

Program Structure

• Academy members work towards attaining the Citizen Scholar Award
• Members accumulate points through engaging with events and activities, and completing community participation hours
• There is no set time limit to complete the program, and the pace is set by the individual

Communication and Support

• The Academy communicates with members through a weekly e-newsletter, 'Inside the A', sent fortnightly
• Members can also access information through the public Facebook page, members-only Facebook page, CareerHub, and the uni teaching website, vUWS

Program Flexibility

• The Academy offers flexibility in choosing activities and programs to participate in
• Students can accumulate points as they complete activities, and are required to complete 20 hours of community participation whilst in the program

Impact on Program Status

• Joining The Academy does not change a student's program status
• The program is designed to complement the base program of study

Eligibility for International Students

• International students are eligible to participate in The Academy if they meet the admission criteria

The Citizen Scholar Award

• The Citizen Scholar Award is granted to students who complete the program
• The award is included in the student's AHEGS (Graduation Certificate) upon graduation