What are my education and training options?
- Full-time study
- Part-time study
- Distance education (external study/flexible delivery)
- Open Universities Australia
- Studying interstate
- Studying overseas
- Support for students with disability in education and training
Courses may be studied on a full-time or part-time basis, either on campus or externally by distance education (often referred to as a flexible delivery option).
Full-time study
On average, full-time students have 20 contact hours per week, but this will vary between courses and institutions. Students may need to attend lectures, tutorials or classes at the institution for up to five days a week.
Part-time study
Students studying part time usually take about half the required number of subjects (or units) per year that a full-time student would take. Some institutions allow as little as one subject per year. Some subjects may be available in the evening to suit work commitments. Not all courses are available on a part-time basis.
Distance education (external study/flexible delivery)
Distance education is a flexible way to study in which attendance at the institution is either not required or kept to a minimum. Independent learning materials and support are provided, and study can be full- or part-time. The demand for this alternative method of delivery is increasing with the rapid growth in internet technology. You should contact the institution at which you want to study to find out more about flexible study arrangements.
Open Universities Australia
Open Universities Australia is owned and partnered by seven Australian universities. Open Universities Australia offers all Australians and overseas students the opportunity to study university subjects and VET units at their own pace and in their own time. The units you study and the qualifications you achieve are identical to those awarded to on-campus students. Most undergraduate units studied through Open Universities Australia are open access with no formal prerequisites.
For more information, refer to the Open Universities Australia Handbook, which is available from major newsagents, ABC Bookshops and leading bookshops. You can also contact Open Universities Australia by telephone on (03) 8628 2555 or 1300 363 652, visit the website at www.open.edu.au or email advisors@open.edu.au.
Studying interstate
To apply for most courses at colleges and universities outside your home state or territory, you will need to contact the Tertiary Admissions Centre in the state or territory in which you wish to study. These centres receive and process applications for admission to courses on behalf of many of the tertiary institutions in each particular state or territory. They do not select applicants or make decisions regarding their qualifications, but act as a central agency for all applications and advise applicants of the result of their application. Lists of tertiary institutions covered by these organisations, and their contact details in each state and territory, are in the Useful addresses section.
Studying overseas
As the world becomes more connected through common concerns, shared goals and technological advances, studying overseas as part of an Australian program of study is a great way to join and contribute to global communities and conversations. Students benefit from being exposed to other cultures, languages and education systems, whilst also enhancing their employability skills.
Learn more from the Study Overseas website at www.studyoverseas.gov.au/ .
Support for students with disability in education and training
The Disability Standards for Education (known as the ‘Standards’) have been implemented to ensure that students with disabilities, including mental illness, have access to education and training on the same basis as other students. The Standards cover all areas of education, including schools, VET, universities, Registered Training Organisations and TAFEs. The Standards include enrolment, participation, curriculum development, accreditation and delivery, support services, and harassment and victimisation.
More information about the Standards can be found on the Australian Human Rights Commission Website at www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights. The website contains information on the rights and responsibilities of students with disabilities.