Choosing A Uni

Once you decide what to study, you will have to look into courses that will give you the desired qualification across different institutions. With so much on offer (well over 4000 degrees nationally), this decision can be a difficult one to make. Here are some tips to get you started – this is what you should look out for within a course and the institution to choose the best fit for you:

1. Look at the structure of the course in terms of electives, compulsory subjects, practical versus theory components, opportunities for work experience or internship, and international opportunities for each. Then, compare each course’s qualities with a similar one at another institution.
2. Find out what campus you’ll be studying at and make sure you are happy with the location and the access you’ll have to it. If you need to use public transport, how long will it take to get there and how much will it cost? If you’re driving, is there parking available and will you need to purchase a special permit?
3. Consider the entry requirements for each course including the ATAR rank and any other criteria such as an interview or portfolio.
4. Take into account the course fees and whether it is affordable. If you would like to put it on HECS, make sure you’re able to do this.
5. Identify the course’s professional reputation in the workforce as well as any accreditation both nationally and internationally because this will mean that you will have increased employment opportunities when you are a graduate.
6. Look at the student experience by talking to current and former students about their time doing the same course and their experience at the university.
7. Tap into the campus culture and see whether it’s compatible with your lifestyle. If you’re an outgoing person who likes to be involved in lots of extracurricular activities, you’ll find that a campus and university that offers this atmosphere will be a great fit for you.
8. Consider any scholarships, grants and other support services (financial and otherwise) that are available to you should you wish to look into them.
9. Find out what facilities are available to you on campus and in close proximity
10. Discover what the university’s values are and what their engagement with the local community is. If your university shares similar values to you, this means you will feel more comfortable and happy belonging to the institution.
11. Consider the course’s duration in comparison with similar courses at other institutions. Are the extra years justified? Why are they different and what is on offer?

In no time, you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect course and institution to meet your needs.