Choosing the best course of study

Choosing the best course of study Choosing the best course of studyPosted August 22, 2013, by Jo Messer Deciding what to study is a confusing process. Which course is best, how should you study it, and which education provider should you go with? Just as you wouldnt buy a house without inspecting it first, the same thing goes for selecting a course you need to carefully analyse all the pros and cons before committing. There are many different course options and some courses are harder to get into than others. What you need to do is some thorough research. Below are some things to consider when making that big decision. Course content The same course may be taught very differently from one institution to anotlageher. Review course outlines and pay close attention to core subjects, electives, and whether or not theres a work placement component. Some course programs may offer you a lot more scope to complete subjects in your area of interest and undertake practical experience. Accredi tation The belastung thing you want is to finish your course and find out its not accredited Its important to check that the course is accredited by relevant industry bodies and that on completion you will meet all registration requirements. Course reputation Just because an institution has a good name doesnt necessarily mean its the best place to study the parteicular course youre interested in. Talk to people in the industry to find out which courses are most highly regarded and which ones they would recommend. The Hobsons course ratings are a great resource for finding out how different institutions rate in different areas. Online or on campus If your course is available online, you need to think about what mode would suit your learning style and lifestyle best. Do you need flexibility in your schedule, do you live too far to commute, or do you do better learning in a classroom, face-to-face? If you choose to study on campus, you need to think about the time and costs associated with commuting, or the need for accommodation if you relocate. Industry connectedness The graduate job market is tough and its becoming more common for courses to offer students the opportunity to undertake professional experience placements during their degree. Some courses, like teaching and nursing, incorporate practical placements as part of their requirements. Other courses vary around options for professional placements. Find out if there are opportunities for work integrated learning as part of the course, and find out if theres a strong alumni program and leadership or mentoring programs. These opportunities will give you a competitive advantage when youre looking for a graduate job. Institution feel If youre planning to study on campus, make the effort to attend open days and faculty information sessions as they give you a chance to explore, talk to staff and get a feel for the campus. Each institution has its own unique flavour and you need to find a place where youll feel comfortable. Dont be afraid to ask other students about how they like their course or how they rate the quality of the teaching, campus facilities and student life. Student support services You may need to access support services during your studies or there might be times that you need to seek assistance so its important to know what support services are available. Ask about academic support, online resources, health services and career counselling services. Funding Once youve narrowed down your options, you need to make koranvers you can afford them. Find out if there are Commonwealth Supported Places available or government loan schemes such as HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP and VET FEE-HELP. Most institutions also offer scholarships and awards, so be sure to check out their websites to see whats on offer. Check out the full range of online courses available to you then pick and choose ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources OfficerGeneral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice AdministratorPopular Career Searchestips for surviving university lifeuni tips and trickswell developed written and verbal communication skillstips for online learners11 top tips for effective time management CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire OnlineJo MesserRelated ArticlesBrowse moreCharles Sturt University (CSU)International studentsBoKyung Kim - South Korean International student, Charles Sturt UniversityHave an open mind and accept the Australian culture and nature. 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