Step three: find out about your course structure

Coursework programs normally have a particular and pre-determined course structure although different courses have different requirements. In some courses you have core requirements - special units or disciplines - that you must complete to meet the requirements of your course and qualify to graduate.

Postgraduate students
These requirements are listed in the handbook entry for the year you commence your course. To view this information visit the online Postgraduate Arts Handbook.

Undergraduate students
You will find a course progression map included in your offer package. This provides information on the structure of your course as well as a sample scheme that you can use as a guide to show you how to map your course. It is a good idea to keep and refer to this 'map' so that you can keep an eye on your course progression and ensure that you complete all your degree requirements. Most of this is covered in the preenrolment sessions. You can find further information on your course structure by visiting Course Information.

Do you want to study full-time or part-time?

The normal full-time load for most courses is 24 points per semester (0.500 Equivalent Full-time Student Load or EFTSL ), or 48 points for the whole year (1 EFTSL). Most undergraduate units are worth 6 points (0.125 EFTSL) and most, but not all, postgraduate units are worth 12 points (.250 EFTSL).

In most courses part-time study is allowed without any special permission; accordingly you can choose to enrol in one, two, three or four units in each semester - it is up to you.
If you decide to study on a part-time basis you must remember that you will not be eligible for certain types of Centrelink payments. To be eligible for payments you must undertake a minimum of 18 points (0.375 EFTSL) or more during each semester.

You should also keep in mind that you must complete degrees within specific timeframes: i.e. a single undergraduate degree within 8 years, irrespective of any approved time off you may take during the course of your studies (the standard maximum completion time for double degrees is 10 years). This information is included in the Course, discipline, and unit information section.

If you are a part-time student, you may find that the range of lecture times imposes some restrictions on your choice of units. You should be aware that, while a number of first-year units are available at 4pm or later, the number of second and third-year level units offered at this time is relatively small.

Diploma and Postgraduate students

Some undergraduate diplomas and postgraduate courses require an enrolment of less than 24 points per semester. This information is included in the Course, discipline, and unit information section.

Honours students

Under special circumstances a full-time honours student may apply for permission to transfer to part-time study. You can do so by submitting an Application to the Honours Committee for Change of Enrolment with written support from the Honours Co-ordinator of your School. You can transfer to part-time study by discontinuing one or more units.

For further information (and forms) please visit the Honours homepage.

Step four: choose your units