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Frequently Asked Questions

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Academic credit is awarded based on prior qualifications and studies, whereas, RPL is awarded based on relevant work or professional experience.
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If you are enrolled in a Swinburne Online course on the basis of work experience, unfortunately, you cannot also receive academic credit via RPL.
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It’s important to note that there is a limit to the amount of academic credits you can receive through advanced standing:
  • Postgraduate courses: Academic credit granted through advanced standing can account for a maximum of 50% of your chosen online course.
  • Undergraduate courses: Students must complete at least 33% of their studies for an award qualification, meaning the maximum credit received via advanced standing is approximately two-thirds of the course.
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The top 5 customer service skills are problem solving, conflict resolution, multitasking, effective communication with customers and teammates, and active listening.
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Demonstrate customer service skills on your resume by creating a dedicated section, listing skills like problem solving, conflict resolution, multitasking, effective communication, and active listening, and quantifying achievements if possible.
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In a job interview, describe your customer service skills by providing concrete examples of situations where you applied skills like problem solving, conflict resolution, and effective communication to ensure customer satisfaction. Prepare specific achievements to share during the interview.
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Customer service skills include problem solving, conflict resolution, multi-tasking, effective communication with customers and colleagues, active listening, and emotional intelligence.
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To transition out of a customer service job, identify your desired career path, gain relevant skills or qualifications, update your resume to highlight transferable skills, and network with professionals in your target field.
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Transferable skills from customer service include technical skills, sales skills, specialised subject knowledge, emotional intelligence, and effective communication skills.
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After working in customer service, you can pursue careers in retail, sales and marketing, management, visual merchandising, e-commerce, human resources, logistics, events management, hotel management, and travel and tourism. Also, education and training, customer experience management, account management, quality assurance and training, social media management, or market research.
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To transition into business from customer service, consider studying a relevant degree, building a network, and gaining experience in areas like sales, marketing, management, or entrepreneurship.
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After a career in customer service, you can explore various paths in retail, food services, become a customer service representative, or pivot into IT roles like technical support.
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The career path for customer service agents can lead to roles in customer experience management, account management, quality assurance and training, social media management, and market research.
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Customer support professionals can transition into roles such as customer experience management, account management, quality assurance and training, social media management, and even market research.
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A common mistake is prioritising short-term gains over long-term fulfilment. Many people choose careers based solely on salary or societal expectations, neglecting their true interests and passions. It’s crucial to align your career choice with your values and aspirations for lasting satisfaction.
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If you’re unsure about your career path, take proactive steps. Start by self-assessing your strengths, interests, and values. Seek advice from mentors or career counsellors. Explore internships or volunteer opportunities in fields of interest. Be open to change and embrace the learning process as you navigate toward a fulfilling career.
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Career indecision can stem from factors like a lack of self-awareness, fear of making the wrong choice, external pressure, or limited exposure to different fields. Overcome this by conducting self-assessment, exploring various options, and seeking advice from mentors and career counsellors.
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Yes, it’s entirely normal, especially during transitions in life. Many people explore different options before finding the right fit. Embrace uncertainty, explore various paths, seek guidance, and remember that career choices can evolve with time and experience.
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Finding your dream job involves identifying your passions and strengths. Set clear career goals and work on gaining the necessary skills. Network with people in your desired field. Be persistent and adaptable, as your dream job might evolve along the way.
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To discover your career path, start with self-reflection. Assess your interests, skills, and values. Utilise personality tests if needed. Research industries and seek advice from professionals. Align your passions and strengths with available opportunities.
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A financial planner typically has a broader scope of practice and can help with a wider range of financial matters. A financial advisor, on the other hand, is typically more specialised and may only focus on a particular area of financial planning, such as investment management or retirement planning.
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The minimum qualification required to become a financial advisor in Australia is an approved bachelor’s degree (AQF7 level) comprising 24 subjects, or above or equivalent. However, many financial advisors choose to complete a graduate diploma or master’s degree in financial planning.
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In Australia, the duration of an MBA program can range from 1 to 2 years, depending on the institution and whether it’s a full-time or part-time program.
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An MBA is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including business professionals seeking career advancement, career changers and entrepreneurs. It’s also suitable for those interested in networking, and anyone looking to enhance their business knowledge and leadership skills.
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While a bachelor’s degree is a common requirement for MBA programs, some institutions offer pathways for individuals without a bachelor’s degree based on relevant work experience or related graduate certificates.
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Studying an MBA offers benefits such as improved leadership skills, enhanced career prospects, a broader perspective on business, networking opportunities, personal growth, and the potential for a higher salary.
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An MBA teaches a wide range of business and management skills, including leadership, strategic thinking, problem solving, financial management, marketing, and specialised knowledge based on chosen areas of study.
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The time to complete a part-time MBA can vary significantly based on the program and individual progress. It may take several years, typically longer than a full-time MBA.
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A weekend MBA is a specialised MBA program designed for working professionals who can attend classes on weekends. It allows individuals to pursue higher education without disrupting their weekday work schedule.
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A full-time MBA program typically takes about two years to complete, although the duration can vary depending on the institution and specific program.
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The number of hours per week for an MBA can vary based on the program and the number of units or courses taken, but a general guideline is around 12 hours per week per unit.
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Yes, part-time MBA programs are available for individuals who want to balance their studies with other commitments, including work and personal life.
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Yes, you can complete an MBA while working full-time. Many MBA programs offer flexible study options to accommodate professionals with busy schedules.
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Gaining a scholarship for a master’s degree in Australia can be competitive, as they are often based on academic excellence. While applying for a scholarship is straight-forward, meeting the high academic standards required can be challenging.
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To obtain full funding for a master’s degree in Australia, you can apply for a scholarship through the Online Australia Scholarships Information System. Scholarships are typically based on academic performance and other eligibility criteria.
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Yes, if you’re planning to pursue a master’s degree in Australia, you will need to pay for it. However, various financial assistance options are available, including government loan schemes, scholarships, and other financing methods.
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Financing your postgraduate study in Australia involves several options. You can apply for a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), where the Australian Government subsidises part of your tuition fees. Alternatively, you can make use of the HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP loan schemes, which allow you to defer your payments until you start earning above a certain income threshold after completing your studies.
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There’s no set limit on the number of degrees you can study using HECS, but there is a financial limit on how much you can borrow, currently set at $113,028*. This amount includes all debts from both undergraduate and postgraduate study under the HECS-HELP scheme.
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Yes, the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is the same as the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS). Both loan schemes were established by the Australian Government to help students manage their tuition fees. They offer support in paying for higher education, including master’s degrees.
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Yes, you can obtain a student loan for a master’s degree in Australia. The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) encompasses various loan schemes, including HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP, which can assist you in financing your postgraduate studies. These schemes allow you to defer your payments until you reach a specific income level after completing your degree.
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Yes, postgraduate study is covered by HECS, meaning that a portion of the tuition fee is funded by the Australian Government, while the remainder is paid by you. This allows you to pay the tuition fee partially up-front or in full and then repay the remaining amount through a HECS-HELP loan once you start earning above a certain income threshold.
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Becoming a CEO involves a strategic progression. Start with a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields like finance or management. Gain experience in management roles, hone leadership skills, and consider pursuing an MBA for advanced knowledge. Attend workshops, build networks, and continuously develop. As you advance, showcase your leadership in diverse roles, express interest in executive positions, and convey a clear strategic vision. Apply for CEO roles, navigate the selection process, and demonstrate your leadership acumen.
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The process of becoming a CEO in Australia is like the process in other countries. To enhance your prospects, consider gaining work experience within Australian companies, fostering connections with local CEOs and industry leaders. It also helps to engage with industry associations and organisations in the Australian context, staying current with evolving Australian business trends, and deepening your understanding of Australian business laws and regulations. These steps will empower your journey toward CEO success within the distinctive framework of the Australian business landscape.
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Becoming a CEO requires a diverse skill set. Key skills include exceptional problem-solving ability to identify and address issues, effective teamwork to foster collaboration within the company, strong communication skills to interact with stakeholders, decisive decision-making especially in challenging situations, and the capacity to develop and implement strategic plans. Leadership skills, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace challenges are also crucial attributes.
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Most CEOs have at least a bachelor’s degree, typically in fields like finance, financial planning, accounting, management, logistics and supply chain management, business administration, or marketing. While some exceptional individuals may have succeeded without formal degrees, having a solid educational background paired with relevant experience greatly enhances your chances of becoming a successful CEO.
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To qualify as a CEO, you need a combination of education, experience, and essential skills. A strong educational foundation, such as a relevant bachelor’s degree, is common. Moreover, accumulating years of experience in management roles, honing exceptional communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to convey and implement a vision for the business, are key qualifications that make you suitable for the role of a CEO.
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The best degree for a financial advisor is the one that will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the field. Some common choices include a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or accounting. However, many financial advisors also choose to complete a graduate diploma or master’s degree in financial planning. Some popular choices include: Ultimately, the best degree for you will depend on your individual interests and goals.
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The job of a financial advisor is to help people with their financial planning. This includes helping them set financial goals, develop a plan to achieve those goals, and make informed financial decisions. Financial advisors can help with a variety of financial matters, such as retirement planning, investment management, and estate planning.
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Financial advisors have various responsibilities, but they usually involve helping clients create financial plans, looking at financial information, giving advice, handling client investments, and staying updated on financial rules.
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A financial advisor needs to be a good communicator, have strong analytical skills, and be able to build trust with clients. They should also be detail-oriented and have a strong work ethic.
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Yes, being a financial advisor can be stressful. Financial advisors are often under pressure to meet the needs of their clients, and they may be dealing with sensitive financial information. However, financial advisors who can manage their stress effectively can find the job to be very rewarding.
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Being a financial advisor can be challenging, but it is also rewarding. It requires a strong understanding of financial markets and products, as well as the ability to communicate complex financial concepts to clients. Financial advisors also need to be able to build trust with clients and manage their expectations..
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It takes about three to four years to become a fully qualified financial advisor in Australia. This includes the time it takes to complete the required education, training, and experience.
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To become a financial advisor in Australia, you need to meet the following requirements:
  • Complete an approved bachelor’s degree (AQF7 level) comprising 24 subjects, or above or equivalent
  • Pass the financial advisor exam
  • Complete a professional year
  • Apply for registration with ASIC. ASIC will assess your application and determine if you meet the requirements to become a financial advisor. To maintain your registration, you will have to complete the continuing professional development (CPD) requirements.
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To become a financial advisor in Australia, secure an approved qualification at bachelor, graduate diploma, or master’s level, or an equivalent certification. Passing the Financial Advisor Examination (FAE) by ASIC is crucial, followed by a year of practical experience. If you hold a foreign qualification, you can seek assessment against local standards. A financial advisor needs to be a good communicator, have strong analytical skills, and be able to build trust with clients. They should also be detail-oriented and have a strong work ethic.
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In Australia, financial planners create comprehensive plans with qualifications like CFP or FPA accreditation. They charge fees for their services. Financial advisors have narrower expertise and might specialise in investment or insurance. Their educational background typically includes a finance-focused bachelor’s degree.
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The key difference lies in their services. Financial planners offer holistic financial plans covering various aspects like retirement, savings, debt, and estate planning. Financial advisors focus on specific areas, such as investment management or insurance.
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Choose between a financial planner and advisor based on your preferences. Financial planners build long-term relationships and comprehensive financial plans. Advisors focus on areas like wealth management and insurance. Consider your skills, interests, and personality to make the right choice. Both offer fulfilling finance careers with an average salary of $110,000 to $130,000.
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Running a successful business demands a blend of skills that can steer your venture towards growth and prosperity. Here are three major skills that are paramount:
  • Leadership and Delegation: Effective leadership involves inspiring and guiding your team to work cohesively towards common goals. Delegation is crucial to distribute tasks efficiently and ensure each aspect of your business receives the attention it deserves.
  • Financial Acumen: Understanding your business’s financial health is fundamental. Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and analysis empowers you to make informed decisions that drive profitability and sustainability.
  • Communication and Networking: The ability to convey your ideas clearly to customers, partners, and employees is essential. Effective communication fosters collaboration and builds strong relationships. Networking allows you to connect with potential clients, partners, and mentors who can contribute to your business’s success.
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When it comes to preparing for a small business endeavour, consider honing your skills in areas that can make a significant impact on your success. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, focusing on business-related fields can be beneficial. Courses in business administration, finance, marketing, and management can provide a comprehensive toolkit for navigating the challenges of running a small business effectively. At Swinburne Online, our Bachelor of Business – Marketing can help you master contemporary marketing practices, including digital marketing, branding, and consumer behaviour. If financial management is your forte, the Bachelor of Business – Finance can empower you to make sound financial decisions and strategise for your business’ future. Remember, your chosen field of study should align with your strengths and the unique needs of your small business.
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Entrepreneurship is about innovation, adaptability, and managing various aspects of a business. Pursuing a degree in business administration, finance, marketing, or management can equip you with versatile skills. Swinburne Online offers excellent options to explore, such as our Bachelor of Business – Business Administration, which covers leadership, sustainable innovation, and more. Alternatively, our Bachelor of Business – Finance delves into financial management, international trade, and economic principles, providing a solid foundation for managing the financial side of your business. Remember, while a degree can be advantageous, your passion and determination are the true driving forces behind your entrepreneurial journey.
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A Bachelor of Business is among the most versatile degrees you can pursue. This comprehensive program covers key areas like Accounting, Marketing, Finance, and more. It provides a well-rounded education, making you adaptable across industries and roles. This versatility ensures you’re equipped to tackle various challenges in the business world.
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In Australia, the best business degree is one that aligns with your career goals and provides comprehensive skills. Degrees like Bachelor of Business, specialising in fields like Accounting, Finance, or Management, offer a strong foundation. However, the “best” degree is the one that resonates with your ambitions and equips you with practical knowledge for success.
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The best type of business major depends on your interests, strengths, and career aspirations. If you’re drawn to numbers, Accounting might be your calling. If you have a passion for creative problem solving, Marketing could be your niche. Ultimately, the best major is one that aligns with your unique talents and fuels your enthusiasm to succeed.
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Studying the business environment offers you a deeper understanding of the factors that influence organisational operations. Four key advantages include:
  • Insight into Market Dynamics: Understanding market trends and consumer behaviour helps businesses adapt and thrive.
  • Adaptability: Learning about the business environment equips you with the flexibility to respond to changing conditions.
  • Strategic Decision-Making: Analysing the business environment guides informed choices that align with organisational goals.
  • Competitive Edge: Businesses that comprehend their environment can anticipate challenges and seize opportunities, gaining a competitive edge.
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Doing business goes beyond mere transactions; it’s about fostering connections, driving innovation, and contributing to economies. A business education equips you with knowledge that ranges from financial acumen to effective management. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions, foster relationships, and create value in diverse contexts.
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Studying business sets you on a path of growth and versatility. By acquiring skills in communication, leadership, and critical thinking, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern business world. Whether you’re aiming for a specialised role or aspire to start your own venture, a business education provides a foundation for success.
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Studying business courses in Australia offers a gateway to a world of opportunities. Not only does Australia boast a vibrant business landscape, but its renowned educational institutions provide quality business programs. From diverse majors to practical experience, Australian universities offer a comprehensive education that equips you with the skills needed to thrive in various industries.
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Yes, absolutely. Pursuing a business degree significantly improves your employability. Graduates with business degrees possess practical skills, critical-thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of organisational dynamics. At Swinburne Online, we offer not only quality education but also valuable resources and workshops to support your career journey, ensuring you’re well-equipped to secure a fulfilling job after graduation.
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A business degree can pave the way for an array of rewarding career outcomes. You might find yourself excelling as an Accountant, Financial Controller, Marketing Specialist, Supply Chain Manager, or even in leadership roles like General Manager or Operations Manager. The versatile skills you gain from a business degree open doors across numerous industries.
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With a business degree in Australia, you have a wealth of opportunities across diverse industries. You could become a Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Project Manager, Human Resources Manager, or even an Entrepreneur starting your own business venture. Australia’s dynamic business landscape welcomes business graduates into roles that span various sectors.
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A business degree can open doors to a variety of well-paying career paths. Some of the roles that tend to offer competitive salaries include Financial Analysts, Marketing Managers, and Information Systems Managers. Your earning potential can also be influenced by factors such as your specialisation, industry demand, and your level of experience.
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In a business management degree program, you’ll learn about leadership, organisational behaviour, strategic planning, project management, and more. You’ll develop skills to manage people and make informed business decisions.
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A business management degree equips you with the skills to lead and manage teams effectively. It focuses on decision-making, communication, strategic planning, and fostering a productive work environment.
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Examples of business management roles include Project Manager, Human Resources Manager, Logistics Manager, and General Manager. These roles involve overseeing various aspects of business operations.
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Business management involves leading and directing teams, making strategic decisions, and ensuring that a business’s goals are met. It emphasises effective leadership and problem-solving skills.
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Business administration covers a wide range of topics, including leadership, organisational behaviour, sustainable innovation, data management, commercial law, and strategic planning.
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A degree in business administration equips you with a comprehensive understanding of how businesses function. It covers topics such as leadership, organisational behaviour, strategic planning, and more.
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An example of business administration is managing financial records, coordinating office operations, and organising resources to ensure the company’s overall efficiency.
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A Business Administrator is responsible for maintaining the operational aspects of a business. This can include tasks such as analysing finances, coordinating training programs, and ensuring smooth workflow.
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Management often involves leading and guiding individuals or teams towards achieving organisational goals. Administration, on the other hand, focuses on overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency, and implementing strategies to keep the business running smoothly.
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Business administration and business management are related fields, but they have distinct focuses. Business administration often deals with the operational side of running a business, while business management emphasises leadership, decision-making, and people management.
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As a Swinburne Online student, you’ll have support for extended hours, seven days a week, with Student Advisors available to help with anything from tech support to research advice and dedicated online tutors in each of your units. Learn more about your student support.
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Yes, Swinburne Online’s MBA is a postgraduate degree, meaning that previous tertiary study is an entry requirement for the course. If you have not studied at a tertiary level before, you may seek entry into the course via the Graduate Certificate of Business Administration. See the entry requirements for more information.
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Yes, there are no requisite live or in-person sessions, so you can elect to study anytime, anywhere. If you find the combination of full-time work and full-time study to be too much, you can choose to study part-time.
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When you complete an MBA with Swinburne Online, you will be rewarded with not only a top-tier master’s qualification, but also a valuable network of like-minded business professionals. Forge connections, motivate one another and share opportunities and ideas that you can continue to draw upon long after graduation. 
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Your Master of Business Administration will give you the decisive vision and professional agility needed to stand apart from your peers. Gain the advanced skills essential to excelling as a leader in business. Leverage your MBA to grow your business as an entrepreneur, or step up into a senior management position.
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Different universities structure their MBAs in different ways. Swinburne Online’s MBA is highly flexible, meaning that you can tailor the course content to suit your specific interests and career goals. Additionally, Swinburne University’s MBA has a Tier-1 rating and is in the top Online MBAs in CEO Magazine’s 2022 Global Rankings, and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a globally recognised business school standard achieved by less than 5 per cent of business schools worldwide. When you complete your MBA with Swinburne Online, you will receive the same globally recognised MBA as on-campus students, without having to attend any in-person or live teaching sessions.
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An MBA will enhance your professional skillset and give you the tools to grow your customer base, output and profit margin. With new insights into contemporary business practice, you will be ready to strategically upscale your processes and take your business to the next level.
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An MBA signals to employers your readiness for a senior management position. An MBA is an advantage or requirement for employment in the following roles:
  • Senior Associate
  • Strategic Manager
  • Executive General Manager
  • Managing Director
  • Chief Operating Officer
  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
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A survey of recent Swinburne Online graduates revealed that 90 per cent of Business alumni were employed full-time. This comes as no surprise as the 2021 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey revealed that worldwide, 91 per cent of recruiters planned to hire MBAs that year, and that demand for graduate management talent has now returned to pre-pandemic levels.
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In 2023, the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment Graduate Outcomes Survey found that working professionals without a postgraduate degree received a median salary of $71,000 per year, while those with a postgraduate degree in addition to their undergrad degree earned on average $97,000 per year. According to the 2023 Alumni Insights Report, salary growth comes quickly for students as some see a $15,000 income increase during their MBA studies, and beyond the average salary of MBA respondents in Australia is $161,000*.
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Swinburne University’s MBA has a Tier-1 rating and is in the top Online MBAs in CEO Magazine’s 2022 Global Rankings. It is also accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a globally recognised business school standard achieved by less than 5 per cent of business schools worldwide. When you complete your MBA with Swinburne Online, you will receive the same globally recognised MBA as on-campus students, without having to attend any in-person or live teaching sessions. Swinburne Online’s MBA is highly flexible, meaning that you can tailor the course content to suit your specific interests and career goals.
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A survey of recent Swinburne Online graduates revealed that 90 per cent of Business alumni were employed full-time. Forbes Australia reports that ‘Demand for MBA graduates is strong. An annual recruiter survey reports significant rebounds in hiring and salary projections for MBA graduates in recent years, while demand expected to increase or remain stable in years to come.’ According to the 2023 Alumni Insights Report, salary growth comes quickly for students as some see a $15,000 income increase during their MBA studies, and beyond the average salary of MBA respondents in Australia is $161,000.
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All students enrolled into the STARS program will receive a $900 Stipend to assist with the cost of their study or professional placement.
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The STARS professional placements are part of the required professional placements in your course. They are not extra placements.
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You will be able to complete your final two placements through the STARS program at your school. You will also be able to continue with PTT across the year. For example, it may be that you have a split, perhaps three days in STARS and two days in PTT. The STARS part would need to be supervised and would also allow you to do the GTPA (final placement assessment). After you have submitted your application for the STARS program, please reach out to Jade on this email address: edpartnerships@swinburneonline.com and she will be able to assist you in negotiating this with your school.
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Swinburne will try to match you to a school as close as possible to your usual place of residence. The maximum travel time from your home to the school will be 90 minutes however, every endeavour will be made to try to ensure it is less than this.
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The STARS modules remain open all the time, so you will be able to complete the module work at a time that suits you. There are five modules, each with approximately 1.5–2 hours of reading and activities. Allow 7.5–10 hours in total to complete the STARS modules.
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You will receive a certificate of completion outlining your completion of the program. This certificate will be a valuable addition to your resume when applying for graduate teaching positions.
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No, all costs associated with travel or accommodation will be incurred by the pre-service teacher. We hope to match pre-service teachers with a school in their area. If you are a successful applicant, and there may be travel involved for you to get to the school. We will discuss with you the situation before matching you to the school.
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We will be open to discuss this with you further, please contact us for more details.
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No, we will work with the schools upon a successful application.
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Provided your secured placement is in regional, rural or low socio-economic Victorian school and you have been successful in your STARS application, Swinburne can support negotiations with your placement setting to ascertain if they wish to be part of the program.
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Victorian Department of Education and Training (DET) will be supporting Swinburne to access and source the placement schools on your behalf.
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The STARS program placement schools can be in regional and rural or low socio-economic schools in Victoria that will be selected by Swinburne, with pre-service teachers matched to schools.
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During the year the program runs (mid-year 2025 to mid-year 2026), you must undertake both remaining placements (or the one remaining), in your course during this time.
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This program will run alongside your current units of study. You will be enrolled into a STARS program unit. The unit is at no cost to you. Introductions to the STARS program are planned to commence in late May/early June. The STARS unit will commence from June. There are five modules of additional study and activities supported by academic teacher mentors. Engagement with the modules will be periodic, and is planned to occur between June to October 2025. The workload per module is anticipated to be approximately 10 hours over two to three weeks for each module. More specific details will be provided to successful applicants.
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This opportunity is only open to 75 students and therefore a rigorous selection process will take place.
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The STARS program commences mid-year 2025 (TP2, Q3).
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Yes, students can defer their payment though a HECS-HELP loan.
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Your discounted fee will be applied at the time of enrolment.
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When students graduate from our courses, they will receive the same accredited qualification as a Swinburne University of Technology on-campus student. The graduation certificate awarded will also be the same. Our courses and learning outcomes are the same as Swinburne University of Technology’s, but we adapt the material and its delivery to enable students to enjoy the most engaging online environment.
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We can potentially offer students unit exemptions for our undergraduate courses, based on diploma and higher education qualifications undertaken within the last 10 years.
Previous studies don’t necessarily need to be related to the field you’re looking to pursue with us to make you eligible for exemptions. We can also award unit exemptions towards our postgraduate courses, where previously completed studies are considered academically equivalent (i.e. postgraduate level) and have been completed within the last 10 years.
TAFE students may be eligible to receive credit for previous study and work experience. If you’ve completed units or certificates at another recognised institute or training organisation, you may be able to apply for a credit transfer. Alternatively, if you have significant work experience related to your studies, you can apply to have this recognised through recognition of prior learning.
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Anyone who works with children in Australia must have a valid Child Safety Screening Check. To ensure your placements run smoothly and there are no delays in your course progression make sure you complete the Child Safety Screening Check requirements for your state as soon as you enrol. You will have access to instructions for your state once you’re enrolled in your course.
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We provide you with everything you need to complete your studies online, however, you have access to all the facilities the campus has to offer.
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We know how important it is to have a supportive and collaborative network around you when you’re studying. When you choose your units, we’ll enrol you into an online class of 20-25 students. Small class sizes ensure that you receive quick and effective feedback from tutors. You will also be encouraged to collaborate on discussion boards with other students.
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There is no interest charged on a HECS‑HELP loans, but your debt will be indexed each year. The indexation adjustment is made by the Australian Taxation Office on 1 June each year and applies to the portion of your debt that has been unpaid for 11 months or more. For more information see Interest and indexation.
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The courses we offer have been designed specifically for online consumption. You’ll study in a purpose-built virtual classroom with extended hours of support, allowing you to study whenever you like. With over 10,000 students currently studying with us, you can rest assured that our online study has been tried, tested and approved by many. All you need is an internet connection.
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Your academic and student support teams are here to assist you with different aspects of your studies. Your student support includes a team of knowledgeable Online Learning Advisors (OLAs), mentors, tutors, coaches and course consultants. You will also have Student Advisors available seven days a week to assist with any general queries you may have, including those about your enrolment details, placements, exams and academic performance.
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Our Course Consultants are always happy to recommend a study load and specific units for you to start off with based on your needs before you begin your degree with us. Once you are enrolled, you can contact one of our Student Advisors at any time and they can help you set yourself up with a study plan designed to maximise your success.
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When completing your degree, there is a vast amount of technical support at your disposal, both on our website and through our support team. If you can’t find what you need on our Student Portal Technical Support section then get in touch with one of our Student Advisors on 1300 937 765 from Australia, +61 3 9956 0777 for Australian citizens living overseas and 800 8001 1222 for international students, anytime between 9am–9pm (AEST) Monday to Friday and 10am–6pm (AEST) on weekends and public holidays.
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When you enrol to study a degree with us, you will nominate how many units you would like to select per teaching period, based on a recommendation from one of our Course Consultants. From here, our enrolments team will allocate you automatically to the units they feel will be best suited to your needs, so you don’t need to worry about choosing units. If you want to choose something different than what you are allocated to, that is no problem, just get in touch with our Student Advisors and they will take care of it for you.
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Students are free to choose their elective units from any degree, as long as the unit doesn’t have a pre-requisite requirement that the student hasn’t met.
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Swinburne Online takes domestic students for both degrees and TAFE diplomas from anywhere in Australia. International students are also accepted for our degrees, although some differences to their payment processes will apply.
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Our Centre for Career Development is a one-stop shop for students looking for career advice and guidance. You’ll not only get assistance with career planning, you’ll also receive advice and discover avenues to develop experience and skills outside university – all giving you the advantage in the job application process. And once you’ve entered the job market, you will still be able to get in touch with the Centre for advice on how to further develop your career into the future. For more information visit our Centre for Career Development page.
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As a Swinburne student studying online you have access to Studiosity, an independent tutoring service that offers constructive essay feedback in less than 24 hours. Submit your draft essay or report to get expert feedback on academic writing, structure, flow and use of research to help develop your English language skills.
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Aside from the Student Advisors, we offer independent assessment feedback via Studiosity. Studiosity is an online tutoring service that offers constructive essay feedback in less than 24 hours. Submit your draft essay or report to get expert feedback on academic writing, structure, flow and use of research. Canvas also offers a dynamic live chat means you can find out who else is online at the same time as you and ask other students questions. There is also a discussion board where you can post questions that will be answered by a pool of industry trained teachers, waiting to help you.
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Exams are held in Australian capital cities or regional centres based on the number of candidates in that location. Venues within these cities will be selected based on their central location and proximity to public transport. Some capital cities may not be established as examination centres due to low candidate numbers. For more information, view our website.
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If you are applying to study a degree at Swinburne Online, enrolments close approximately 10 days before the start of each teaching period. Our teaching periods run three times a year, from March to June, July to October and November to February. For TAFE students, you can enrol at any time and begin your self-paced studies at a variety of start dates that suit you. For full details about start dates, visit our key dates page.
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As a graduate of Swinburne Online, you receive the same accredited qualification as an on-campus student, meaning you have the same skills and knowledge as them. This means with an online degree you have the same career prospects as an on-campus graduate of Swinburne University of Technology, which is in the top 2% of universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2025). TAFE study is designed to give you the skills you need to help take your career to the next level. A Swinburne Online TAFE qualification builds upon your industry experience, and gives you the formal skills and knowledge needed to take on a more senior role or change careers. For more information read how you can Advance your Career.
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Swinburne University of Technology provides its alumni the following benefits and services:
  • Networking events with alumni, both in Australia and around the world
  • Continued access to career support
  • Discounted professional development programs
  • Notifications of new courses, qualifications and scholarships
  • Access to commercial discounts and special offers
To find out more ways that you can stay connected with Swinburne alumni and their networking programs, visit our Alumni Resources page.
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It is expected that applicants have proficient English skills. We recommend the below levels in an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL to ensure you are successful at university study:
  • For paper based TOEFL tests a score of 550 with a written English score of 5
  • For Internet based TOEFL tests a score of 79 with no band below 18.
International English Language Test System (IELTS) course specifications:
  • Undergraduate Business courses require an IELTS score of 6 with no band below 6
  • Undergraduate Media and Communication courses require an IELTS score of 6 with no band below 6
  • Undergraduate Social Science requires an IELTS score of 6 with no band below 6
  • Undergraduate Psychological Sciences requires an IELTS score of 6.5 with no band below 6
  • Undergraduate Education requires an IELTS score of 6.5 with no band below 6
Further information on English requirements
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It is expected that applicants have proficient English skills. You should have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent (at least three years) studied in English, or have completed year 12 English in Australia. You must meet the below levels in an English language test such as IELTS, ISLPR or PEAT to ensure you are successful:
  • Achievement in the International Second Language Proficiency Rating (ISLPR) of Level 4 in all four areas of speaking, listening, reading, writing from an approved testing site.
  • Achievement of a score A in all four areas of speaking, listening, reading, and writing in the Professional English Assessment for Teachers (PEAT) test.
International English Language Test System (IELTS) course specifications:
  • Master of Professional Accounting requires IELTS 6.5 no band below 6
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) requires IELTS 6.5 no band below 6
  • Master of Teaching requires IELTS of 7.5 and the following scores for each component Speaking 8.0, Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0
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We have a whole variety of support options available to students seven days a week, so no one is ever left feeling alone. For students studying a degree with us, your small online class of 20–24 students is run by a dedicated Online Learning Advisor (OLA), who will always be happy to respond to your questions. Our Student Advisors (SAs) are a team of academic/technical and administrative specialists who can be contacted seven days a week. They can help with issues from advice on assignments to problems with logging in to the Student Hub. We also have online assessment support options that will cater to a range of academic needs. To find out more about our university support options, visit the student support page on our website.
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Studied at a university, higher education institution or college, an undergraduate degree will usually be your first university degree, such as a bachelor’s degree, and will take between three and four years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) to complete.Undergraduate study is a term used to describe formal, accredited tertiary education achievements.
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The Tableau Desktop Certified Specialist certification is an industry-recognised qualification that demonstrates your comprehensive knowledge and abilities in Tableau application. This certification does not expire and does not need to be renewed. For more information, please visit the Tableau Desktop Certified Specialist Certification page.
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Our students do have access to Swinburne’s campus facilities, including our libraries and this means they are required to pay a Student Amenities fee like all university students in Australia. For students who aren’t based in Victoria, we have an agreement with 34 institutions that our online students have access to. The program is called ULANZ and more information is available here on the ULANZ Borrowing Scheme.
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Swinburne Online was born out of a joint venture between SEEK.com.au and Swinburne University of Technology. We focus on providing you with industry-ready qualifications, from a university with over 100 years of history. Swinburne Online students receive the same qualification as students at Swinburne University of Technology, an internationally ranked university with 30,000 students across its Melbourne and overseas campuses.
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Offered by universities, TAFEs, Registered Training Organisations and Community Education Centres, a diploma is a practical qualification, while a degree is typically offered by universities and encompasses more academic courses. For more information about the different qualifications, visit our Online Courses page.
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Postgraduate study is a term generally used to describe tertiary education courses available to students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree or have significant relevant work experience. Postgraduate study takes the form of either coursework or research. Coursework consists of a program of academic study to achieve one or more of the following:
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Graduate Diploma
  • Postgraduate Diploma
  • Master by Coursework
  • Professional Master
  • Professional Doctorate
Taking a research approach to postgraduate study entails conducting research and providing a thesis to earn a:
  • Master by Research OR
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
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Online education utilises breakthrough web technologies to deliver academic courses. When undertaking online study, students may use a range of tools such as webinars, videos, chat sessions and e-texts to deliver content. Assessments can be undertaken synchronously or asynchronously. Synchronous learning refers to situations where online participation from a student is required at a certain time. This may involve a live discussion session with an online tutor, or a presentation which is only available to be viewed at that time. Asynchronous learning involves study where the event is not in a live format, but it may still have a loose timeframe, for example: an assessment that will be accessible at any time over a week long period. Both of these learning styles are utilised to their optimum when studying with Swinburne Online.
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Higher education encompasses Bachelor level degrees and above and is offered by universities. Whether you’re entering or re-entering the workforce, changing career paths or simply want to broaden your expertise, higher education will help you achieve your career goals with courses ranging from bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctorates and more. Each course requires different commitments in terms of time, cost and pre-requisite or foundation study or experience.
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The HECS‑HELP scheme can benefit an undergraduate domestic student (for example an Australian citizen studying a Bachelor degree at Swinburne Online) as a student loan. Instead of paying upfront, HECS-HELP is how eligible students can pay their student contribution amount.
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Distance education (sometimes known as learning by correspondence) is a broad term that describes education delivered to a student who is in a separate location to the source of the academic content. This method of education has been around since the 1800s and in comparison with online education, which is offered by Swinburne Online, it is often viewed by professionals as outdated. The mode of delivery traditionally involves sending the course materials and assessments back and forth between the student and learning institution in hard copy. Many distance education programs require the student to attend classes or workshops on campus at some stage during the semester.
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You can graduate with honours from a Bachelor’s Degree by undertaking an additional year of study, generally requiring you to complete a research project and submit a thesis, thereby positioning you for further research studies.
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At Swinburne Online, each unit you study will be run by an online tutor with years of industry experience. The tutors are called Online Learning Advisors and they have been trained to teach specifically in an online environment. You can contact your Online Learning Advisor via the discussion boards in the student portal, or via email for a timely response.
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For students studying a degree, a virtual classroom is the online space where your learning will take place. You’ll participate in interactive learning activities, access online reading, watch instructional videos and interact with your fellow students. Plus, class sizes are kept small so you get the personalised support you need.
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At Swinburne Online, each unit you study will be run by an online tutor with years of industry experience. The tutors are called Online Learning Advisors (OLAs) and they have been trained to teach specifically in an online environment. You can contact your Online Learning Advisor (OLA) via the discussion boards in the student portal, or via email for a timely response.
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A specialisation is a prescribed set of units within an area. Specialising in a second discipline, particularly one that complements your major, can complement your qualification and employment prospects. However, a specialisation is an area of interest not an accredited major.
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A pre-requisite subject is a subject or sequence of subjects which must be completed before choosing a subsequent unit or course. For example, an undergraduate student cannot choose postgraduate units at Swinburne Online.
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A Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, is a globally recognised qualification that’s considered the highest postgraduate achievement an individual can earn. To be awarded with a PhD, you must select a specific subject within your chosen field, carry out extensive and original research and submit a substantial thesis on your findings. Your thesis will be assessed by external examiners and will be judged on the quality of original research and contribution to the knowledge of the subject. You’ll be required to commit to three or four years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) and will be supervised by academic staff members. Once you graduate, you’ll be eligible to teach in your chosen field at a university level or work in a specialised position.
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A Master’s Degree allows you to become a specialist in your chosen field. Typically students are required you to demonstrate a high-order overview of a specific field of study or area of professional practice. When you graduate, you’ll possess advanced knowledge of a specialised body of theoretical and applied topics, high order skills in analysis, critical evaluation, or professional application; and the ability to solve complex problems and think rigorously and independently. You will generally be required to undertake academic coursework and in some cases, preparation for professional practice.
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A major unit refers to what ‘specialisation’ you would like to focus on within your degree. For example, as a Bachelor of Business Administration student, you may wish to major in a specialisation area such as marketing. For current students, more information can be found in the Study Resources section of our Student Portal.
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A Graduate Diploma will allow you to complete specialisation studies in a smaller amount of time and at a reduced cost of a master’s degree. Most of the time you will also have the option of transferring to a masters degree in the same topic. Once you complete your graduate diploma, you’ll have advanced knowledge and skills for professional, highly skilled work or further learning.
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Completing a Graduate Certificate will help you upgrade your qualifications or give you advanced practical skills required in specialist industries. If you haven’t earned a bachelor’s degree, many programs may allow you entry provided you have sufficient relevant work experience in your chosen field. Graduate Certificates generally require a commitment of six months full-time study, or an equivalent part-time commitment.
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A GPA is a calculation for higher education results. There are two GPA scales commonly used in Australia and overseas, the four-point and the seven-point scale. These scales differ in the grade points that they allocate to each grade but the method of calculation is the same. Swinburne uses a four-point method. To find out how to calculate a GPA visit our Grade Point Average page.
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The best study option for you will depend on your current level of education, as well as the amount of available time you have to commit. For those looking to step up and earn a promotion or just upskill in general, a short course might be the best choice. A Graduate Certificate is also a good option for anyone looking to be educated over a short period of time. If you are unsure about what level of study or time commitment is best for you, utilise our Study Time Calculator or view our range of courses today.
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A double degree is a university degree where you study two single degrees at the same time, giving you the option of specialising in two different fields. To be eligible to enrol in a double degree, you must meet all the entry requirements of both degree programs. Even though you’ll be doubling your opportunities and giving yourself more career flexibility once you graduate, a double degree generally doesn’t take double the time to complete. In most instances, you’ll benefit from cross-crediting elective units, which will reduce your study costs and time compared to if you were studying separate bachelor’s degrees at different times. Usually a double degree will take four years full-time study or part-time equivalent.
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Completing a Diploma or Advanced Diploma certificate will give you practical skills for work as well as the opportunity to progress to another qualification. At Swinburne, you’ll be taught by experienced teachers and have access to equipment used in industry to help prepare you for your future.
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The Australian Government subsidises an Australian citizen student’s education by giving them a Commonwealth Supported Place. By doing this they are paying part of the course fees directly to the university and the student pays the remainder. If you are a domestic undergraduate student, you are eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place.
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Certificates are the most basic qualification available to secondary school students and beyond. Offered by TAFEs, Community Education Centres and Registered Training Providers, Certificates I, II, III and IV will prepare you for employment or further education and training. Certificate I: Will give you skills when beginning a profession or help you gain community involvement. Certificate II: You’ll build on knowledge and skills to work in a defined context and undertake further learning. Certificate III: You’ll learn more in-depth theoretical and practical skills for work or further learning. Certificate IV: You’ll learn theoretical and practical skills for specialised work or further learning.
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Bachelor degrees are offered by universities and are presented to you when you complete an undergraduate course of study. Depending on the field of study, the duration of the degree can range from three to five years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). Most bachelor degrees are recognised worldwide. A Bachelor degree teaches you skills such as research and analytical thinking and is recognised as a higher qualification to diplomas or certificates. Where a Diploma will give you the skills you need for your job, a Bachelor will set you up for your career.
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It is your responsibility to ensure that your enrolment is correct prior to the due date. If you do not pay your fees by the due date you may be cancelled from your degree. If you withdraw from a unit after the due date you will receive a fail result on your student record.
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These are the minimum technical requirements to study with Swinburne Online:
  • Laptop or desktop computer
  • Speakers or headphones
  • Web camera
  • Microphone
  • For Mac: OSX version 10.7
  • For PC: Windows 7
  • Broadband internet connection with at least 30 GB data allowance per month (mobile dongles are not recommended).
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At Swinburne Online, our online education method just requires students to have access to a broadband connection! Students can log in to their online environment to access their course, whenever and wherever it is convenient for them. Traditional on-campus education requires students to attend lectures and tutorials at a venue at a given time. Distance education often requires a number of different communication modes and can sometimes involve the sending of printed material to a student’s residence.
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To study a diploma with Swinburne Online, you need to meet the specific entry criteria for your course. For our Business diplomas you must either hold a relevant Certificate IV, Year 12, or higher level qualification, or have at least two years of relevant work experience and have completed Year 10 Maths and English. If you haven’t completed Year 10 Maths and English complete an online application and our Course Consultants will be in touch to talk to you about your situation.
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Earning an industry certification is a powerful way to demonstrate and validate your competency to the market. Tableau certified professionals enjoy advanced career prospects, higher salaries, improved job security, greater confidence and proficiency in the workplace, and skill validation. Tableau certified professionals are also invited to enter the Tableau directory – a platform used by companies and prospective employers to find Tableau-accredited talent.
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When you study an education degree you complete practicum units that include theory and professional experience, also called a placement. Your placement will provide you with a real-life teaching experience at an early learning centre or primary school. This will give you the chance to apply the skills you’ve learnt online, build your confidence in the classroom, and gain invaluable industry experience.
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An exemption is a credit you are given by Swinburne Online for previous study or prior learning at another institute. If you are eligible for exemptions, it can mean that you can fast-track your degree or diploma and graduate sooner. To find out if you are eligible for any exemptions, speak to one of our Course Consultants.
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Electives are free choice units that must be completed to meet the requirements for most of our degrees. They are included in many of our courses to give students flexibility, in terms of how they complete their degree. Their inclusion in our courses allows students to explore other subjects of interest that may not be included in the core structure of their chosen degree.
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A core unit is a unit common to most degrees within a discipline. For example, all social science degrees at Swinburne Online share the same core units, regardless of which degree you are studying. Generally, core units are taken towards the start of your degree. For current students, more information can be found in the Study Resources section of our Student Portal.
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Depending on your current situation, now might be the perfect time for you to start studying. If you are finding yourself with extra time that you would usually spend on commuting or weekly commitments and would like to use it constructively, view our range of courses today.
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According to studyassist.gov.au, Australian citizens or permanent residents (humanitarian visa) are eligible for FEE-HELP, providing they have not exceeded their FEE-HELP limit. To check your eligibility, visit the Australian Government Study Assist website.
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International students are not eligible for any financial assistance from the Australian government.
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As a student of Swinburne Online, you are eligible to participate in the Swinburne University of Technology graduation ceremony, which is held three times a year at the Melbourne Convention Centre. If you cannot make it to Melbourne, you can graduate in absentia and can opt to have your testamur (degree) posted to you.
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Whether you are looking to follow a passion or upskill in a new field, a career change can be very rewarding. So if you are finding yourself with extra time that you would usually spend on commuting or weekly commitments and would like to use it constructively, view our range of online courses today. Starting or completing a course now will help put you ahead of the pack.
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Yes, students of Swinburne Online graduate with the exact same qualification as a student at Swinburne University of Technology. Not only does your graduation certificate look exactly the same, your coursework will cover all the same topics – we just transpose the information and assessment tasks so that they are perfectly suited to an online classroom.
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No, recent Year 12 students must apply through VTAC for Swinburne courses for the March intake. However you may apply for Swinburne Online’s July or November intakes.
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There are no exams for Swinburne Online’s TAFE Business courses.
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Exam attendance is necessary for all of our courses, other than education courses and some media studies units. Exams are taken at specified exam centre venues in capital cities around Australia. When students reside more than 100km from an exam centre, or have any condition that would prevent them from taking exams at exam centres, they can sit an online exam. All our international students will also be required to sit their exams online, at home using a personal computer. To find out more about exams, visit our assessments and exams page on the website.
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Students studying our online education courses still have to complete placements like on-campus students. In order to register to teach, graduates must have completed at least 60 days of professional placement when studying at postgraduate level and at least 80 days at undergraduate level. Professional placements can be taken anywhere in Australia, in schools that use the Australian curriculum or early childhood settings that use the Early Years Learning Framework.
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If you are unsure which qualification is most relevant to you, speak to a Course Consultant for some advice or see our Levels of Education FAQ section. Otherwise you can submit an application form and one of our Course Consultants will be in touch.
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If you’re unsure about whether you’ll be eligible to study with Swinburne, it’s definitely worth calling our team of course consultants on 1300 069 765 or +61 3 9956 0777 if you are calling from overseas. The team will be able to outline which entry requirements are relevant to you and explain your next steps. Often students will be eligible for a range of courses on the basis of their work experience. It may be as simple as sending through an updated resume to get on track towards your qualification of choice.
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A placement may be able to be completed at your workplace depending on your course and circumstances. Please contact the Placements Team to discuss if this is an option for a particular placement in your course.
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If you have credits or exemptions from previous study, it will appear on your academic transcript under ‘Other Results’. Please note there will be no grade or mark associated with these studies.
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For domestic university students, estimates of your overall course cost can be found on our Course Fees page on the website. For international students, course fees can be found on their Course Fees and Scholarships page. These prices may vary slightly depending on which units you choose. For more information about individual unit costs, visit Swinburne University of Technology’s Higher education fees page.
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Within a teaching period, you have to do at least one unit to continue studying your degree. The maximum amount of units you can undertake in a teaching period is four units. If you need to take a teaching period off, you can look at deferring your course.
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The number of placements you have to complete depends on your course: Bachelor of Education (Primary): 3 x 20 days, 1 x 21 days. Total: 81 days Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching): 4 x 20 days. Total: 80 days Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary): 3 x 20 days, 1 x 21 days, 1 x 10 days. Total: 91 days Master of Teaching (Primary): 3 x 20 days. Total: 60 days Master of Teaching (Secondary): 3 x 20 days. Total: 60 days
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For most undergraduate students, we recommend you allow eight hours of study a week per unit. For postgraduate education students (domestic only), we recommend 10 hours a week per unit and for postgraduate business students and undergraduate design students we recommend allowing 12 hours a week of study per unit.
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Swinburne University has over 215,000 alumni in more than 140 countries around the world.
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Our team of Course Consultants will normally get in touch with you within two working days of you submitting your application with an outcome, or to retrieve some further information. During busy periods this time frame can be a little longer. You are welcome to contact us if you’d like to follow up on an application that has exceeded this guideline.
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The length of your degree will largely depend on how many units you undertake per teaching period. The number of units required to complete a degree varies from qualification to qualification and you can see how many units are required to complete a particular degree on our Course Pages. Alternatively, you can have a look at our Course Planners for more detailed information about how to manage a specific degree. As students have the option of studying between one and four units per teaching period and can change their study load throughout, each student will graduate at a different point.
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Swinburne started as a technical college in 1909 and gained university status in 1992. Read the history of Swinburne.
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When you study a TAFE course with Swinburne Online all of your study will happen in Canvas. Canvas is the online platform where you’ll manage your course and receive study support from teachers. You’ll be able to personalise your program, giving you the freedom to set your own goals, choose what units you study first, and determine how long you spend on each one. With the support of your Assessors and Lead Trainer, you can work towards your goals at a pace that suits you.
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We know students are most successful when they learn actively. This means not just remembering new information, but evaluating it and using it to solve problems and to come up with new ideas. Students at Swinburne Online learn with the three learning components: theory, practice and sharing. You learn your theory through the free Learning Materials, put it into practice with weekly Learning Activities and then share your learnings with other classmates in the Discussion Boards.
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For over 100 years Swinburne has been committed to providing our students with the latest innovations in education. In recent years, Swinburne has become one of the world’s leading universities, ranking in the top 400 in the world, as assessed by the Academic Ranking of World Universities. This result places Swinburne among the top 2% of universities in the world. Swinburne has over 30,000 students enrolled worldwide, supported by 2,800 staff and an alumni network of over 90,000.
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You can undertake our courses from anywhere with an internet connection, including the comfort of your own home during social isolation. Swinburne Online takes domestic students for both degrees and TAFE diplomas from anywhere in Australia. International students are also accepted for our degrees, although some differences to their payment processes will apply. You won’t normally have to be online at a specific time. Your course material is available for you from the beginning of each teaching period and you can work through it in the hours that suit you. There are some live webinar sessions that run approximately once a month. These are a special opportunity for students to sign in at the same time as their tutors, normally before an assessment deadline. It gives you the chance to ask any questions relating to the assignment in real time and hear other student’s questions and thoughts. We understand that students won’t always be able to make these sessions, so they can be replayed the next day.
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When studying a degree and you are struggling with motivation, time management or simply need help with an assignment or some technical support, you can get in touch with our Student Advisors. Call 1300 937 765 from Australia, +61 3 9956 0777 for Australian citizens living overseas and 800 8001 1222 for international students, anytime between 9am – 9pm (AEST) Monday to Friday and 10am – 6pm (AEST) on weekends and public holidays – or fill out a Help Web Form to speak to one of our Student Advisors. If you’re enrolled in a TAFE course you will have support in Canvas – your online learning environment. A dynamic live chat means you can find out who else is online at the same time as you and ask other students questions. There is also a discussion board where you can post questions that will be answered by a pool of industry trained teachers, waiting to help you.
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HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP enable eligible students to state their intention for tuition fees to be paid on their behalf by the federal government to Swinburne Online. This results in students having a loan with the Australian Tax Office that can be repaid through the tax system. Repayments for HELP loans are not required until students are earning more than a certain amount per annum.
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Applying to study with Swinburne Online is simple and one of our course consultants will be available to help you with any questions you have. Students wishing to study with us, simply need to complete an application form. A course consultant will assess the application and give you prompt feedback, including any documentation required. If successful, they will be then able to finalise your application with you over the phone.
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Exam attendance is necessary for all of our courses, other than education courses and some media studies units. Exams are taken at specified exam centre venues in capital cities around Australia. When students reside more than 100km from an exam centre, or have any condition that would prevent them from taking exams at exam centres, they can sit an online exam. All our international students will also be required to sit their exams online, at home using a personal computer. To find out more about exams, visit our assessments and exams page.
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All of our assessment tasks and assignments at Swinburne Online are submitted online, so there is no need to worry about broken printers, or assignments getting lost in the mail. If you are unable to submit your assessment on time, there are a number of options available to you including extensions and special consideration. To find out more about assessments, visit our assessments page for university on the website. When you study a TAFE course with us your assessment tasks will be highly practical – instantly improving your work performance and helping advance your career. You will find short assessment tasks featured throughout your learning journey such as quizzes, short answer responses and reflection, and short projects. Read more about TAFE assessments here.
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You can communicate with students using the discussion boards within your student portal, or via CONNECT, Swinburne Online’s very own social networking site. CONNECT is much like an online student lounge, where you can chat with students from across the whole of Swinburne Online. From discussing your course, reflecting on student life, creating face-to-face study groups with students in your local area and even networking for your future, CONNECT is your networking haven. If you’re studying a TAFE diploma you’ll have access to live chat within Canvas, which allows you to see who else is online at the same time as you and ask other students questions. You can also open up discussions with students and teachers by posting questions to an online discussion board.
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The process for accessing and securing a placement may differ depending on your course, your location and the type of setting. Once you’re enrolled in your course you will be able to access information and resources about placements. Our Placements Team is also available to answer any questions you may have and give you advice.
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Yes! The Data Analytics for Business unit, which forms part of the Graduate Certificate of Professional Data Analytics, covers the subjects and topics assessed in the Tableau Desktop Certified Specialist certification exam. These include how to:
  • create and explain data connections
  • organise and simplify data
  • create basic charts and visualisations
  • calculate and map data
  • create a dashboard.
While the unit will equip you with the knowledge and skills that are tested on the exam, it is not designed to be direct preparation for the certification and we recommend consulting the Tableau exam guide and free resources, in addition to the unit content, during your preparation.
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We have a whole variety of support options available to students seven days a week, so no one is ever left feeling alone. For students studying a degree with us, your small online class of 20-24 students is run by a dedicated online tutor (Online Learning Advisor), who will always be happy to respond to your questions. Our Student Advisors (SAs) are a team of academic/technical and administrative specialists who can be contacted seven days a week. They can help with issues from advice on assignments to problems with logging in to the Student Portal. We also have online assessment support options that will cater to a range of academic needs. To find out more about our university support options, visit the student support page on our website.
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We offer either HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP to Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa-holders for all of our university courses. For undergraduate degrees, Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available for all students who meet the entry criteria. HECS-HELP is available for Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa-holders as part of their CSP offer. New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents will need to pay their unit fees up front, but will be eligible for our domestic student fee. For postgraduate courses, Australian citizens and Permanent Humanitarian visa-holders that are eligible for courses, will be able to use FEE-HELP to pay their tuition fees. International students are not eligible for any Australian government fee assistance.
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Yes, we offer a number of postgraduate degrees in business and education that will help you develop the skills and knowledge for a great career. All programs require a bachelor’s degree in any discipline, or relevant work experience.
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Because you will be studying a degree online, all of our support systems are available over the phone or online. When you go through our simple enrolment process you will speak to one of our knowledgeable course consultants over the phone. Once you are a student with us, you are always welcome to drop in to any of our campuses to access the library or any of our other student benefits.
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Yes, Swinburne Online accept applications from international students for our higher education courses. The process of applying to enrol is exactly the same as for domestic students. Simply fill in a request for information and submit any documentation required or speak to one of our Course Consultants on 800 4002 0400.
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You won’t normally have to be online at a specific time. Your course material is available for you from the beginning of each teaching period and you can work through it in the hours that suit you. There are some live webinar sessions that run approximately once a month. These are a special opportunity for students to sign in at the same time as their tutors, normally before an assessment deadline. It gives you the chance to ask any questions relating to the assignment in real time and hear other student’s questions and thoughts. We understand that students won’t always be able to make these sessions, so they can be replayed the next day.
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For students undertaking a degree, most of the software, like your online eTexts, that you will need to complete your course can be downloaded for free, using a license provided to you by Swinburne Online. However, certain units will require students to purchase some software. If you are studying a unit(s) that requires you to purchase software, you will be notified via email prior to the start of the teaching period. All students can download a free version of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for the duration of their studies. You will also need ongoing access to either:
  • Mac: OS X Version 10.7 or higher
  • PC: Windows 7 or newer.
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For students undertaking a degree, most of your learning materials are included with a free license provided to you by Swinburne Online. However, in some cases, you will be notified via your student email that you will need to buy specific software or eTexts. For TAFE Business students, all of your learning materials will be available online and are covered by your course fees. You won’t need to purchase any further materials.
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If you are eligible for a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan, you will be able to defer your study payments until you earn above the repayment threshold defined by the Australian Tax Office. We offer either HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP to Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa-holders for all of our university courses. For undergraduate degrees, Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available for all students who meet the entry criteria. HECS-HELP is available for Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa-holders as part of their CSP offer. New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents will need to pay their unit fees up front, but will be eligible for our domestic student fee. For postgraduate courses, Australian citizens and Permanent Humanitarian visa-holders who are eligible for courses will be able to use FEE-HELP to pay their tuition fees. International students are not eligible for any Australian government fee assistance.
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Yes, most students will be eligible for some type of overseas study program, either longer term student exchange or short term study tours. For more information visit our Swinburne Abroad page on the Swinburne University of Technology website.
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If you are an on-campus student at Swinburne University of Technology, you may be able to study some of your units online, through Swinburne Online. Speak to a Course Consultant today to find out if we can meet your unit requirements.
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You may be able to complete one primary placement overseas provided that it is undertaken at either an Australian Curriculum School or an International School where the language of instruction is English. All early childhood placements must be completed in Australia. For more information, contact the Placements Team via the Help Web Form.
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Yes – It’s important that when you enrol, you take note of your desired start date as this will determine the deadline for your fee payment and your Census date. Start dates refer to your course start date (new students), as well as start date options for your next block of units. Census date is your last opportunity to change your enrolment without incurring the cost of your enrolled units.
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Our education degrees are accredited and recognised by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) and/or by the Australian Institute of Teaching and Leadership (AITSL) and/or by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), depending on the particular course accreditation requirements. The Bachelor of Education (Primary), Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary), Master of Teaching (Primary) and Master of Teaching (Secondary) enable you to register as a teacher anywhere in Australia under mutual recognition. For the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching), you should check with the teacher registration authority in your state or territory and course accreditation requirements necessary for any early childhood teacher registration requirements of your state or territory.
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Swinburne Online students receive the same qualification as students at Swinburne University of Technology, an internationally ranked university with 30,000 students across its Melbourne and overseas campuses.
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There are currently no Commonwealth Supported Places available to postgraduate students.
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When attending placement you are required to attend full days (seven to eight hours per day). We recommend you complete your placement five days per week over four weeks. You also have the option of completing some placements three consecutive days per week (e.g. Wed, Thurs, Fri) over eight weeks.
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Yes, you are only required to attend exams at the end of each teaching period. There are no formal mid-semester exams.
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Yes, you can request a student card when you enrol with Swinburne Online. You can use this to borrow books at Swinburne University of Technology’s library or any ULANZ libraries and will also need it when you attend exams.
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A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a subsidised higher education place. You will only pay the student contribution (remaining amount) of the unit fees after the government subsidy has been applied. A HECS-HELP loan will allow you to defer your fees to a government loan for CSP courses, allowing you to avoid any upfront fees for your course. You would start to pay this loan back once you are earning over the advised threshold. This loan is available to Australian citizens and Humanitarian Visa holders. A FEE-HELP loan will allow you to defer your fees to a government loan for full fee paying places (non-CSP) allowing you to avoid any upfront fees for your course. You would start to pay this loan back once you are earning over the advised threshold. This loan is available to Australian citizens and Humanitarian Visa holders. You can nominate to defer your fees to a HELP loan during your enrolment, and once you log into your student account that application can be finalised.
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You can study at Swinburne Online from any state or territory in Australia, as long as you meet the entry requirements for your online course and have an Internet connection!
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