University Titles

Undergraduate Degree Courses

In explaining the structure of undergraduate degrees in this chapter, we are using the Australian University for our model. What we describe will apply in general terms to degree courses in the other institutions and in other countries. There are, however, also some important differences. For more detailed information about Australian Institutions, see the references listed at the end of this chapter. For variations that apply in Britain , Canada and the United States , consult Appendices 1-3

Many Australian Students when they first enter university or college feel as strange as if they were moving into a foreign country, an alien culture. They will already have completed twelve years of primary and secondary education. They will have been above average pupils, successful enough to have gained admission to a tertiary institution on the basis of their state exams or school performance. Yet despite their past success they are often nervous. They are entering a very different world from their school surroundings.

The Australian academic year runs from March to November and is divided into either two semesters or three terms. The new students' first experience of the university is likely to be Orientation Week, an introductory week there is usually a preliminary talk or lecture in each first-year course, but it is mainly a time for student activities.

There are many social events – films, parties, plays, dances; clubs and societies try to enroll new members; there are special tours of the libraries and talks on service available to students, such as medical services, student loans, and sport facilities. This is the week in which new students begin to get their bearings and become oriented to the university setting.

We shall describe I this chapter some features of the structure and working of an Australian university which you will find helpful to know from the outset. (If you are intending at a college of advanced education or a technical institute there will be some

about Australian Institutions

Mining and Metallurgy

students on matters

Engineering or Agricultural