Universities
An Australian university will provide you with a sound understanding of your chosen field, along with academic skills that can be applied to other areas. Australian universities and higher education institutions offer programs leading to Bachelor Degrees and higher qualifications in a diverse range of fields.
Australian universities are widely known for the quality of their teaching and research. All Australian education qualifications are included under one national system -The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF links school, vocational and university qualifications, making it easier to progress to the next AQF level anywhere in Australia.
The AQF also makes it easy for overseas governments to recognise your qualification. When international employers see it, they know what it stands for: a world class education in a modern, democratic and technologically advanced society.
- The Bachelor Degree is the most common qualification offered in Australia. Specialised research training and professional development is also offered through Masters Degrees and Doctoral Degrees.
- Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas are also available. Diplomas are becoming less common, however, the Associate Degree provides a shorter-cycle Degree program for professionals wishing to further their careers.
Vocational education and training
Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) institutions offer the opportunity to hone your skills in real and simulated work environments. The practical expertise you gain in the workplace will give you a genuine advantage over other graduates.
At these institutions, you can study a wide range of disciplines, including: business and management, science and technology, design and arts, communications, sport and recreation, community service and health, tourism and hospitality, engineering and building, horticulture and land management and English.
Programs are provided by public Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Institutes, private colleges and a number of schools and universities. Industry and Government work together to develop training outcomes, which are then implemented according to nationally endorsed training packages.
Australian schools
Australian schools encourage students to develop communication skills, self discipline, problem solving abilities and respect for themselves, others and society. All schools take their responsibilities to students very seriously. Pupils are provided with support, supervision and regular encouragement.
Australia's national curriculum framework to ensure high academic standards across the country. Secondary school students can choose specialised subjects. Although subjects vary from school to school, they might include: law, psychology, computing, graphic design, aviation, drama and many others. Of course, all subjects are taught by qualified teachers.
English courses
Whatever your level of English, an English language college will have a program to meet your needs. Most colleges have video facilities, libraries and computer-assisted learning. They also have ‘language laboratories’, which are similar to ‘English corner’ sessions overseas.
You can enrol in English language courses at any time of the year. Full-time courses range from four weeks to 48 weeks. Expect to spend about 25 hours a week studying, including time spent in class and studying on your own.
There are five main types of English courses taught in Australia:
- General English – this course focuses on the development of communication skills, particularly speaking and listening.
- English for Academic Purposes – this course will prepare you for study at an English-speaking university or a vocational institute.
- English for Specific Purposes – these courses focus on practical English for specific course areas, including English for Business, Aviation, or Tourism.
- Secondary School Preparation – this course will develop your English for entry into an Australian secondary school.
- Examination Preparation – these courses will prepare you for English language proficiency examinations, including the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and Cambridge Certificates.