Courses & the study experience
Be inspired by the stories of students and academics.
From heart-warming student stories, to realistic advice from academics, and insights into "what it's really like" to study a particular topic. This is your hub for getting to know the study area you're interested in.
From minimum wage to psychologist: Meet single mum Courtney
Courtney is a single mum living in Tasmania. She was earning minimum wage, didn’t finish Year 12, and didn't think she would ever go back to study again–until she spoke to a student advisor at Open Universities Australia.
How online learning can empower students with school refusal
If school refusal (or ‘school can’t’) is affecting your family, there is hope. Learn more about this growing issue, and how online learning might help.
The 10 best creative writing short courses to kick off your practice
Whether you want to write a short story, novel, children’s book, biography or simply give in to your creative writing compulsion, we have the short course you didn’t know you needed.
How to choose a media and communications degree
A career in media and communications can be varied, fast-paced and exciting. But how do you know which degree is right for you? We spoke to an expert to help you decide on a study path.
6 facts you need to know about studying law online
We debunk your misconceptions and highlight the unique opportunities available to you when you study law online.
Student allowances explained: What payments can you get?
If you’re studying full-time, you may be eligible for income support. Find out about the three main types of Centrelink payments for students, Austudy, ABSTUDY and Youth Allowance.
What happens if you fail a uni subject?
Receiving a failing grade can feel like an overwhelming setback in your study journey. But help is available. Here’s what to do if your academic progress doesn’t go according to plan.
The most common university terms explained
Are you confused by all the lingo and acronyms universities use? We've got you covered! Read our handy decoder guide.
What is an undergraduate certificate?
This new university qualification only takes six months to complete full time. Find out more about what it is and why it’s worth studying.
Do universities check for AI plagiarism?
Have you ever used a tool like ChatGPT for university work? Universities are relaxing the rules around AI, but you can still get caught out with AI plagiarism if you aren’t using it responsibly. Here’s what to know.
What is RPL? Recognition of prior learning explained
Discover how previous work or study experience can count towards your university degree, helping you graduate sooner.
Help! I'm having second thoughts about my course
What happens if you make it a few weeks into your uni course and it isn’t what you expected? There’s still time to switch directions. Here’s what to do if you feel like this while studying through Open Universities Australia.