What is distance education?
Distance education is when students do not have to attend classes as part of their study. All study materials are made available to students over the Internet, or by e-mail and/or postal services. Higher education institutions at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers all offer distance education courses. With the number of courses available for study by distance education growing rapidly this is becoming an increasingly popular option for many people such as students living overseas and people who work full time.
Distance education delivery
Distance education today is very different to earlier courses (which were called ?correspondence courses'), when all contact was impersonal and by post. Today, international students can access distance education in many different ways. Students may have audio access to lectures posted on the web, which they can listen to any time. Email offers a quick and personal link to lecturers, tutors and other students. Increasingly, course materials are accessed via the Internet and libraries offer distance education students access to library resources. With the current resources, distance education students are not disadvantaged in any way and can be confident they will receive the same high quality education as on-campus students.
Entry requirements
The entry requirements are generally the same as for on-campus students. Undergraduate course entry requirements are generally the successful completion of secondary school. Postgraduate course entry usually requires a prior degree. Both undergraduate and postgraduate study offer mature age entrance schemes, where applicants can successfully apply through demonstration of maturity, motivation and relevant employment history.
Entry requirements for TAFE institutes and private colleges vary depending on the course, but generally, entrance is based on the same requirements as for on-campus students.
You should always check with the education provider for their course entry requirements. For some courses, you can apply and start studying at any time. For other courses you need to apply at a certain time, usually towards the end of the year. Check application due dates with your chosen education provider early so that you will have plenty of time to complete your application.
