Future-focused learning & teaching at VU
Victoria University (VU) stands out as a triple sector university, offering a blend of higher education, vocational training (TAFE), and innovative pathways for secondary students.
We are committed to preparing students for the future workforce by offering unique teaching models, clear pathways, strong industry connections, and the latest in AI learning advancements.
Our welcoming and accessible approach ensures every student is supported to succeed and thrive in their chosen field.
A uniquely VU approach
VU is distinct. Our VU Block Model® and VU First Year College®, VU Online, TAFE and HE offerings, and Tech Schools that deliver STEM training to high school students – makes us a uniquely ‘triple sector’ University.
This provides valuable insights into the needs of future learners, who are digital natives and expect high-quality 24/7 mobile compatible learning that is responsive to their needs and values.
Digital disruption continues at a rapid pace, with advancements in AI technologies providing opportunities for curriculum transformation, improved student accessibility and an enriched student experience through personalised learning and assessment.
Key features
Our teaching and learning features:
- the VU Block Model, where small, focused classes lead to improved results
- tailored learning support
- flexible, supported pathways for students into and between a tailored range of courses
- courses with benefits such as overseas study opportunities, practical industry links and work-integrated and problem-based learning.
Our vocational education programs (often referred to as TAFE) produce industry-focused, work-ready graduates with a wide range of national vocational education and training qualifications.
Purpose-built diplomas are also offered that pathway directly into bachelor degrees.
Our undergraduate degrees prepare students for careers in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors across a wide range of subject areas.
Industry-relevant postgraduate programs are designed to further careers by deepening or broadening areas of professional expertise.
Our research higher degree courses are seen as gateways to careers in research and development.
Industry collaboration, course modernisation & employability
Collaboration with industry partners is a cornerstone of VU's educational model. Students participate in real-world projects - such as working alongside local businesses on marketing campaigns, developing technology solutions with IT firms, or engaging in health sector placements - gaining hands-on experience and building professional networks.
Course modernisation at VU is a university-wide initiative ensuring that every program is aligned with current workforce needs. By collaborating across TAFE, higher education, and secondary sectors, our educators create meaningful learning pathways that foster practical, transferable skills.
Employability is embedded in every course, with assessments designed to let students showcase their abilities and applied knowledge.
VU Careers Hub
Early and ongoing connections to employers through work-integrated learning and the Virtual Careers Hub ensure students are prepared for meaningful employment upon graduation.
Our AI-powered Virtual Careers Hub and Jobs Board connect students with tailored job opportunities, matching their skills and interests to available roles from the start of their courses. AI tools are also integrated into the curriculum, helping students learn how to responsibly and effectively use technology in their future workplaces.
Latest QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey results
Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) is a series of national surveys for the higher education sector, including the employer satisfaction survey (ESS). The ESS measures how well graduates from Australian higher education institutions meet employer needs.
VU’s latest ESS results show strong growth in employer satisfaction, reflecting our industry‑aligned courses and graduates with job‑ready skills.
| Reporting period | Measure used by QILT | VU result | Direction vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 report | Pooled 2022–2024 employer satisfaction | 83.1% | — |
| 2025 report | Pooled 2023–2025 employer satisfaction | 87.7% | ↑ Up (+4.6 pp) |
AI in teaching & learning
Under the VU Block Model – our unique workshop-style teaching approach – students study one subject at a time across four weeks in small class sizes. Collaborative relationships are built between teachers and students, and the University excels in peer-to-peer learning. VU emphasises authentic assessments that focus on students applying their learning, often in class, limiting opportunities for breaches of academic integrity.
In 2025, VU embarked on an assessment redesign project, to ensure our assessment practices verify genuine student capability while preparing them to use AI tools critically and ethically in professional contexts. This includes a new policy, supporting academics through the structural reform and a Student AI Hub. Implementation is ongoing.
All of our units will eventually include at least one secure assessment – such as demonstrations, presentations, supervised practical work, and oral examinations – that verify independent capability, while other assessments can explicitly allow AI collaboration to develop professional skills in working with these tools.
