Studying toward the same degree as an on-campus student is streamlined and simple. A network of 18 brick and mortar, postsecondary institutions called "Open Universities Australia" provides the opportunity for students at a distance to earn a degree. Some of the participating institutions include MacQuarie University, Monash University, RMIT University, LaTrobe and the University of Western Australia. In addition, Open Universities Australia has a specially tailored program to suit the study requirements of elite amateur and professional athletes.
Outside of the Open Universities Australia network, other Australian institutions offer opportunities to obtain a postsecondary education. With these schools, students are not necessarily required to attend classes in person. Instead, courses are conducted online, at remote campuses or through mailings. Examples of these institutions include Deakin University, Charles Sturt University and Southern Cross University.
Requirements for study in Australia vary by institution, as do individual course fees and tuition rates. The institution of your choice can provide information about requirements and fees, and online inquiries are welcome and accessible from the contact page on the university's website. One entry requirement may be that the student must obtain the equivalent of an Australian high school diploma; however, individual circumstances, work experience and age may all be considered upon application. Accessibility to a computer is necessary. Most distance education courses have an online component, so computer access is required to view online courses, participate in forums, correspond with professors and view other course-related technology materials.
Australian universities offer a vast array of distance education courses and degree programs. Whether your intent is to pursue a full degree or simply participate in general interest and professional development courses, the Open Universities Network or other institution of your choice are bound to offer something that suits your needs. Undergraduate degree programs include science, arts and humanities, business and computers, to name a few. Courses range from computer science, tourism, history, fine arts, business, sciences and languages. Some universities allow you to work toward a postgraduate degree.