Is university for me?

Universities are diverse places with people from all sorts of backgrounds. There are people just like you already succeeding at uni.

Spending time on campus and connecting with other students makes the transition to uni easier and boosts your academic success.

It's all about finding your place and feeling like you belong - and we have plenty of ways to make it happen, from orientation through to sport, clubs and events.

What is undergraduate study?

Undergraduate study is usually your first course of study at a tertiary institution. At QUT, you can complete a bachelor degree or a double degree.

Bachelor degree

Our bachelor degrees and bachelor honours degrees provide an opportunity for study across a range of subject areas. They usually take three to four years of full-time study to complete, and many give you the option to specialise through majors or elective subjects tailored to specific interests.

Double degree

Double degrees are a combination of two bachelor degrees, studied at the same time. They provide a broader range of skills and knowledge, greater career flexibility and a quicker path to graduation than studying two single degrees.

What if I don't get into the course I want?

Australian and New Zealand students

There are options to help you get into the course you want to study. You could switch into your dream course through a different degree course, a QUT College diploma or undergraduate certificate, a TAFE and QUT combined qualification, or other diploma programs; or you could see if you meet the criteria for a selection rank adjustment.

Worried you won't get into the course you want?

International students

We offer a range of English language and academic pathway programs that can help you get into the course you want.

If you don't meet the entry requirements for your chosen QUT degree, or you just want to be better prepared for university, our courses can get you where you need to be.

English language and pathway programs

What if I change my mind about my course?

If you start a course and decide that it's not for you, you can always change your degree. You may even be able to get advanced standing (credit) for subjects you've already completed.

Talk to staff at HiQ as soon as possible to avoid academic or financial penalties.

Study your way

You might have the opportunity to complete your degree in different ways.

If you are an international student, you must study full time.

On-campus study mode

Participate in a variety of on-campus learning activities with online support.

Online study mode

Study your degree online and engage primarily in online environments.

Full-time study

Study 3 or more units each semester.

Part-time study

Study 1 or 2 units each semester.

What will my classes be like?

Your classes

You might attend lectures, tutorials, workshops, practicals, lab sessions or other types of classes.

Online learning may include interactive lectures and discussions, simulations, workshops or other activities and access to readings and resources.

You may also participate in work-integrated learning as part of your course, work with an industry or community partner on relevant projects or activities, or have opportunities to study overseas.

At university, you are expected to be an independent learner—keeping up with your reading, assessment pieces and developments in your field, actively participating in your learning activities and seeking advice when you need it.

Timetable

Your timetable will depend on the course you select and whether you are studying full time, part time or online. International students can't study part time.

You may have the flexibility to select from different days and timeslots to attend on-campus activities, or complete online tasks at your own pace. Day and evening classes are offered for some courses so you may be able to attend classes at times that suit you best.

For an average unit (subject), you will spend about 10–12 hours per week engaged in on-campus, online or practical activities, self-directed learning including reading and learning tasks, reflection and completing assessment tasks. Full-time study is usually three or four units each semester and part-time study is one or two units each semester.

What types of assessment can I expect?

You will usually have a number of assessment tasks for each unit, such as:

Assignments

Written or oral, individual or group

You might need to complete a set of drawings in architecture, write a report in science or come up with a marketing plan in business.

Exams

Mid-semester and end-of-semester

Exams might be multiple choice, short answer, long essay or a combination.

Practical tasks

You may need to complete practical hands-on tasks as part of your coursework. You could design and produce garments in fashion, undertake labs and fieldwork in science or participate in a clinical simulation in nursing.

How can I prepare for uni?

There are many ways you can get ready for university.

Australian and New Zealand students can:

  • attend one of our on-campus events like Open Day
  • check out our START QUT program, which offers high-achieving students the chance to experience university by studying up to two QUT units during Year 11 and 12.

International students can:

  • attend a predeparture session, held by International Student Services
  • hear from our students on the student blog to find out about life at QUT
  • come to your orientation week, where you'll learn to find your way around campus and make great connections with your fellow students.

Welcome week

Welcome Week is our orientation program for new students to QUT. It's held before classes start, and is essential for your transition to university life.

You can take a campus tour, get enrolment help, or attend workshops to help you confidently start university. You'll have a faculty orientation program that will explain everything you need to know about your course, and give you a chance to meet lecturers and faculty staff.

Welcome Week is also a great way to meet other new students, sign up for clubs and explore the campus. There will be activities such as BBQs, live music and competitions.

Life as a student

There's more to university life than study. At QUT, you can make friends and immerse yourself in the university experience.

Guide to student life

Our campuses

Navigating a new environment is never easy and a university campus is no different.

It is important to attend Welcome Week, held the week before classes begin, so you can meet other new students, explore the campus and its facilities, access online resources and learn about managing your study.

Each campus also has a HiQ Student Centre which is a good starting point for all queries.

You could also visit your campus before you start studying, and get a head start on finding your way around. You can also get to know our campuses by attending events like Open Day.

Campuses and facilities

Transport and getting around

All QUT campuses are well serviced by public transport. Free shuttle buses link our Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove campuses, making inter-campus travel easy and affordable—no matter where your course is based.

Maps and transport

Technology

One of the first things you'll do once you accept your offer is access HiQ, which allows you to enrol in your units, select your timetable, and review your fees and book list.

We also offer:

  • wireless internet access on all campuses
  • 24-hour computer labs
  • in-person, online and phone IT support
  • online IT training.

We're here to help

Our staff are here to help you make the most of your studies, navigate any uncertainties and provide support to help you achieve your academic, personal and career goals.

Support for students