Transitioning from school to university is an exciting but challenging journey. To help you navigate this new chapter, we’ve created this handy guide:
1. How do university preferences work? Your first step after high school is selecting your university preferences. You’ll receive one offer for your highest eligible preference in each round, so the order matters. Consider not only your dream course but also a Plan B. If you don’t get your top choices, think about courses that could serve as a stepping stone. After receiving your ATAR results, you have a two-day window between rounds to change your preferences. Some universities are moving away from ATARs and accepting students based on school recommendations. Remember, university isn’t the only pathway to a POWER career.
2. What is an undergraduate degree? Usually, your first degree is a bachelor’s degree. For instance, a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Information Technology and Data Analytics takes three years, a Bachelor of Engineering takes four years, and some double degrees take five years. If you prefer a shorter commitment, a two-year associate degree can also lead to many POWER industry careers.
3. How much will my degree cost? While the best things in life are free, university isn’t one of them. You may have heard of HECS debt. For your first degree, you’ll likely qualify for government subsidies, but there will still be costs. These depend on your degree and the number of subjects you take. You can pay upfront or through your taxes once you earn over a certain amount. Check university websites for specific costs and important deadlines to drop subjects without incurring a fee.
4. What are university classes like? University introduces new terminology like tutorials, lectures, and practicals (pracs). Most degrees include lectures and tutorials. Lectures involve notetaking from a professor’s presentation, while tutorials are smaller groups where you can get help with assessments from tutors or demonstrators. You may also have practical classes in various labs depending on your field of study. The number of subjects, contact hours, and assessments vary by degree. University websites and open days can help you understand what to expect.
5. What is a major? In your first year, you won’t need to worry about choosing a major. Most degrees start with a broad overview of specialist areas in your field. For example, a first-year engineering degree includes mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and materials engineering subjects. In your second year, you’ll choose your focus area, or major, which includes core subjects and electives. If you’re interested in exploring further, you can opt for a double major.
6. How do I make new friends and meet employers? While studying is important, university is also about expanding your horizons and meeting new people. Join clubs and societies that match your interests, from extreme sports to community service. Employers value real-world experience, so consider internships and industry competitions – we can help you with this through the API Power UP Program. You can also apply for overseas exchanges and placements, subject to travel restrictions. Volunteering is another great way to make friends, pursue your passions, and impress future employers. In fact, 94% of employers agree that volunteering builds skills for paid work!
7. What if I want to change courses? Accepting a course doesn’t lock you in for its duration. If your interests change or you aim for a different degree, you can apply to transfer courses within your university. Transferring can be competitive and depends on available places, your marks, and prerequisites. Be mindful of application deadlines for transferring courses.
8. What happens at the end of my degree? Deciding between work and further study doesn’t have to happen immediately, but planning ahead is beneficial. With a power specific degree and internships under your belt, you’ll have the skills for a range of careers. Enhance your CV and interview skills to stand out to employers.
If you’re interested in research and further knowledge, consider pursuing a higher degree like a Master’s or PhD. Discuss with your university the best pathways for your interests and strengths, and explore scholarships and other support.
Good luck and enjoy your next big adventure!
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