To be a Clemente student, you need:

• a desire to learn
• a readiness/willingness to commit to the program
• to be available to attend classes for four hours each week, plus study at home
• a sufficient English literacy level (no formal qualification or high school completion needed)
• to be in stable housing
• to be 18 years of age or older (students who are 17 years may be considered).

• You will study humanities units such as sociology, history, philosophy and literature etc. These units are taught and assessed at the same level as ACU undergraduate humanities degrees.
• Two units are offered each year – one per semester and you will need to attend the course in person.
• Each unit is 12 to 14 weeks in line with ACU semesters. Each week you will participate in a two-hour seminar and a two-hour study session with your fellow students and volunteer learning partners. Lunch will be provided.
• Classes usually have 10 to 15 students to allow you to feel safe and supported, and to participate in open discussions, reflections and in sharing stories and experiences.
• On successful completion of four subjects, you will receive a Certificate in Liberal Arts from ACU that enables you direct access to ACU to continue your education through a diploma or degree. You may even be able to claim credit towards an ACU undergraduate degree.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Canberra:
Fridays, 10am – 2pm

New South Wales (NSW)
Blacktown, Sydney: Tuesdays, 10am – 2pm
Surry Hills, Sydney: Thursdays, 3 – 7pm
Parklea Correctional Centre: Mondays, 10am – 2pm

Queensland (QLD)
South Brisbane: Wednesdays, 10am – 2pm
Banyo, Brisbane: Thursdays, 10am – 2pm

Victoria (VIC)
Ballarat: Thursdays, 10am – 2pm
Fitzroy, Melbourne: Tuesdays, 2 – 6pm

Studying Clemente online/remotely is not available.

Community volunteers known as learning partners support you with study and writing skills. They will assist you to learn in a way that works best for you, and provide support and encouragement to help you succeed in your learning journey.

You can also access ACU Library, academic skills advisors and other services at ACU. Wellbeing services, both at ACU and with our community partners organisations, are also available.

All university fees are waived and course materials are provided. Internet and computer access available on most sites.

Lunch/refreshments are provided free of charge during each session, enabling time to get to know other students, learning partners and staff.