What Does Undergraduate Mean In Australia?

If you are studying in Australia, you would notice that the word “undergraduate” is widely used. However, it does not necessarily mean what you would like it to mean. Some students actually believe that it is only for a bachelor’s degree. While some believe that it is actually for a diploma or a TAFE course.

This blog provides information about what “undergraduate” means in Australia, what levels of qualifications it encompasses, the study periods of these qualifications, and some key considerations for international students before applying.

What Does “Undergraduate” Mean in Australia?

Undergraduate as the first level of tertiary education

While in Australia, an undergraduate is the initial sub-level of tertiary education that a student embarks upon after completing their secondary studies. A student undertakes either vocational or higher education, with an undergraduate degree representing the onset of the entire process of learning that falls under the tertiary phase of education. It means that the student initiates their process of higher learning either through a diploma, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree, which falls under the phase of the undergraduate.

These qualifications are developed to enable students to gain access to foundational learning in their respective subjects for either moving into the workforce or for progressing into higher levels of study.

Difference between undergraduate and postgraduate study

The main difference between undergraduate and postgraduate study in Australia lies in level and purpose:

An undergraduate degree is the initial level of higher educational study that comprises various levels of educational qualifications including diploma, associate degree, or bachelor degree qualifications. Such levels of study are taken immediately after completing high school.

A postgraduate course is an academic course that is pursued after acquiring an undergraduate degree. It comprises graduate certificates, master’s, or doctoral qualifications. Such qualifications are aimed at developing higher levels of understanding or research expertise than their foundational counterparts.

In practical terms, post-graduate courses require an undergrad degree for admission, while their objective is career skills or research in academia, whereas undergrad courses are about establishing the foundation of knowledge or work readiness.

Where undergraduate sits in Australia’s qualifications framework (AQF levels 5-7)

Australia employs the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for the standardization of qualifications in various areas of education. Under the AQF:

• Level 5 – Diploma
• Level 6 – Associate Degree
• Level 7 – Bachelor’s Degree

These levels signify studies for an undergraduate degree. A diploma would require one to two years, an associate degree would require about two years, while a bachelor’s degree would require about three to four years of study time.

At level 8 or higher, qualifications are classified as postgraduate qualifications, which include honors qualifications where the honors is a separate qualification, graduate certificates or graduate diplomas, master’s, or doctoral qualifications.

This framework helps ensure that ULNs are clearly distinguished on the basis of their complexity relative to other qualifications.

How “undergraduate” fits into Australia’s education system (school, VET, university)

The Australian system of education is divided into stages:

• School Education: Primary and secondary education until Year 12. Successful completion of Year 12 leads to a certificate such as the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, which is often a prerequisite for degree courses.
• Tertiary Education – This comprises both:

• Vocational Education and Training (VET) – provided by TAFE or Registered Training Organizations (RTOs). VET qualifications include certificates and diplomas but can also provide articulation into higher education degree courses.
• Higher Education: Usually provided by institutions of higher learning such as universities, some colleges, requiring undergraduate degrees (diploma, associate, bachelor) and post-grad degrees.

An undergrad degree can therefore be pursued both via VET qualifications and through higher education qualifications, but it is more commonly associated with bachelor qualifications that are often found in higher institutions of learning such as universities.

This allows students to start at various levels of entry (e.g., taking a certificate or diploma first, then a bachelor degree) with flexibility for career entry or additional study that is appropriate in the Australian framework.

How Undergraduate Study Fits into the Australian Education System

From Year 12 (or equivalent) to university or college

To pursue an undergrad degree in Australia, the student needs to start with completing secondary studies, which would be completing year 12 or equivalent to it in their country of residence. Those students who successfully complete year 12 are eligible to apply for an undergrad course like a bachelor’s degree, associate degree, or diploma.

International students with equivalent high school qualifications are also eligible to apply for these undergrad programs, similar to Australian students.

Once the student completes their year 12, their next path could encompass the university courses that would enable the student to pursue an undergrad degree. Furthermore, undergrad courses provide students with a grounding in their area of study of preference, equipping students for entry-level or advanced study positions.

VET and TAFE qualifications vs undergraduate qualifications

Australia’s university system is categorized into two streams: Vocational Education and Training (VET) and Higher Education. These two streams occur after completing secondary school. Both of these options are for further studies but are of different natures.

• VET is skills-based training that is designed by industry professionals for work preparation. Many VET courses are provided at TAFE institutions. These institutions are government-funded bodies that provide nationally recognized certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas in various courses that aim for experiential learning with a direct application to the workforce, often for a shorter term of study with lower tuition fees compared to university courses.
• Undergraduate Qualifications: These qualifications for higher education include bachelor degree qualifications, associate degree qualifications, and undergraduate diploma qualifications. These kinds of qualifications tend to be more academic in their nature, and they are provided by higher education institutions or recognized providers of further education. These degrees tend to be more lengthy in their periods of study, with both theoretical as well as practical learning.

While VET courses and undergrad courses are considered to be distinct, some flexibility is involved here, such that the credit gained by completing certain VET courses is eligible for entry into higher educational undergrad courses.

“University” vs “College” in Australia – what’s the difference?

In the Australian setting, university and college are referred to as institutions offering various forms of higher learning such as:

• University: A university in Australia is a type of institution that provides higher education, including both undergraduate and graduate courses like bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees. Usually, university study would include studying both theoretical concepts of study as well as research work in various areas of study. This institution is also likely to conduct research work and is recognized globally.
• College (often VET/TAFE):  In Australia, the term college is often used to refer to institutions that provide Vocational Education and Training, such as a TAFE college or a private Registered Training Organisation. These are colleges that provide training in a trade or vocation, often through the delivery of a certificate or diploma course of study. Additionally, many colleges provide a university pathway.

While the major difference is educational, it is also often driven by their distinct purposes since qualified institutions are recognized for their role in training students for certification in particular professional areas, unlike colleges that tend to train for employability. Both institutions provide equal opportunities for students.

Types of Undergraduate Qualifications in Australia

Australia also provides various options of undergraduate qualifications that students can undertake after completing their secondary education, such as year 12 or equivalent. These provide foundational learning for students in order to prepare them for work or further learning.

Undergraduate certificate

An Undergraduate Certificate is a type of shorter-term higher educational award that takes about six months to complete. It is intended to provide foundational academic knowledge and skills that could serve as a stepping stone or a pathway into an undergraduate diploma, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree.

These certificates were also introduced to ensure that the needs of the industries are satisfied. These qualifications also contribute to other university qualifications.

Diploma programs

A Diploma is an undergraduate award that typically takes 1-2 years of full-time study. A diploma is concerned with skills that provide students with preparation for employment or for further study.

While the diploma qualifications for vocational training are provided by VET/TAFE institutions, higher education diplomas are provided by universities or other registered providers of higher education, recognized as academic qualifications.

Associate degree 

An Associate Degree is another type of undergraduate degree that requires about two years of full-time study. It is equivalent in standing to an advanced diploma but is more academic in emphasis.

Associate courses provide students with the skills to work as paraprofessionals or continue on into the second year of a related bachelor’s degree. This provides students with an established path into further higher education.

Bachelor’s degree 

A Bachelor’s Degree is the most popular form of university-level educational qualifications held by Australian undergraduates. It is of a 3-5 year full-time study duration dependent on the area of study.

A bachelor’s degree is a broad foundation of theoretical and practical knowledge in a certain area of study that is often a prerequisite for professional work or for continuing into graduate school.

Bachelor’s degree with honours

A bachelor’s degree with honors is essentially an extension of an undergraduate degree that takes an extra year to complete beyond what is involved in a bachelor’s degree. This is typically accompanied by research work.

A number of institutions incorporate the honours year into their degree course, while some provide it as an additional feature for students who qualify academically. An honours degree could enhance research skills or improve eligibility for postgraduate research courses.

Double and combined degrees as undergraduate programs

In Australia, it is quite common for institutions of higher learning to provide students with the option of a double or combined degree. These are organized in such a way that the student is able to attain two distinct bachelor’s degrees, for example, a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws degree, in a manner that would otherwise take longer if both were pursued one after the other.

Combined degrees enable students to extend their skill set and potential career possibilities by studying other areas of expertise that are complementary to their degree.

Pathway and foundation programs that lead into undergraduate study

There are many institutions in Australia that offer pathway or foundation courses that help students transition into their undergraduate studies. These foundation courses are designed for students who do not meet the standard entry qualifications for university (e.g., students who do not complete year 12 or equivalent).

Successful completion of such programs allows students to get guaranteed entry into their chosen undergraduate degree course. Colleges affiliated with universities like UNSW Foundation Studies or Curtin College provide students with the foundation or diploma pathway opportunity to gain the skills required before getting admitted into an undergraduate course.

Duration and Study Structure

Typical length of undergraduate programs (6 months to 4 years)

Australian undergrad courses will differ in length depending on the type of award:

• An undergrad certificate or course takes about six months to finish and is often utilized for entry into a longer program of study.
• Diplomas are typically 1-2 years of full-time
• Associate degrees are usually 2 years long.
• A bachelor’s degree is the most popular degree type given for undergraduates. It requires candidates to study for between 3-4 years. Depending on the degree, it may also take longer.

This allows students to choose a path that suits their plans, affordability, and desired time frame for entering the workforce.

Course components: lectures, tutorials, assessments, credit points

In Australia, units of study (or subjects or modules) are used in university undergraduate degrees. Each unit of study covers one area of study and is worth a certain number of credit points. These units collectively make up the degree.

Course components would include:

• Lectures, which provide the core information.
• Tutorials or workshops: These are designed for more detailed discussions in smaller groups.
• Assessments: These could be essays, tests, presentations, group projects, or other assignments.

Credit points indicate the total learning workload of the unit, including both classes and private study time, and contribute to the total number of credit points that need to be achieved for graduation. A total of 150 hours of learning workload is denoted by a unit that is equivalent to six points.

Full-time vs. part-time study options

In Australia, undergrad students have the freedom to study either on a full-time or a part-time basis:

• Full-time students would normally undertake a normal load of study each year (usually the equivalent of eight units or approximately 48 credit points per year, depending on the institution). International students studying on student visas must meet the requirement of full-time study.
• Part-time students study fewer units per study session. This means that students work less but take longer to complete a degree. This type of study is useful for students who work or have other responsibilities, but it is not possible for all courses. 

Majors, minors and specialisations within a bachelor’s degree

At the bachelor’s level, one tends to major in something, which means it is the area in which one specializes (e.g., Business, Psychology, Engineering). Some institutions also enable students to choose:

• Minors: Smaller areas of study that complement the major.
• Specializations or Concentrations: These are areas in the major that specify skills or career paths.

This allows students to gain strength in one area and breadth in the other areas, which assists in both their areas of intellectual interest and career plans.

Semesters vs trimesters: how the academic year is organised

Australian universities divide the academic year into various patterns of study:

• Semester system – This is the most widely used pattern, with two major periods of instruction (each one typically involving 12-14 weeks of instruction).
• Trimester system: This is where the year is divided into three periods of about 10 weeks in length. This allows students to study throughout the year or complete their subjects earlier.

Both systems provide study periods including class delivery followed by assessment weeks, with the possibility of summer or winter sessions for units to get ahead.

Typical weekly study workload for undergraduate students

An undergraduate degree course in Australia would, more often than not, combine class room sessions with independent study. It is expected that for each hour of class room sessions, including lectures, tutorials, laboratories, students would need to commit an equivalent number of hours for independent study, such as reading or preparation of assignments.

A student at university can expect to work a maximum of 30 hours a week. This would include lectures, tutorials or laboratory classes, as well as time spent studying. These commitments would include lectures, tutorials or laboratory classes, as well as studying.

Entry Requirements for Undergraduate Study

High school completion or equivalent 

In Australia, the initial entry requirement for university study is that one should either complete their secondary school or possess an equivalent qualification gained through other educational systems. Domestic students are expected to finish year 12 with recognized certificates referred to as either the High School Certificate or HSC. International schools, or equivalent qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate or IB diploma, would also be recognized, with their marks converted to a selection score for university entry in Australia.

These additional qualifications are evaluated by universities to ensure that the student has reached an equivalent academic standard to that of Australian students completing year 12 before accepting the student for admission into an undergraduate course.

English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic)

As all university courses in Australia are taught in the English language, applicants are required to provide evidence of their competency in the language if they are from external nations. Some of the accepted forms of testing for proof of language competency include:

• IELTS Academic
• TOEFL 
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge English tests (Advanced & Proficiency)

Usually, the lowest band requirement for an undergrad degree is around IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5 or 6.0), or PTE Academic usually around 50-58, although some courses or institutions may need higher scores.

If the students do not yet meet the needed grades, they could be given conditional admission with a requirement to attend a bridging or foundation course in English before the university degree course.

Pathway programs if you do not meet direct entry requirements

Not all students are eligible for direct entry, and this is more so if the student’s educational background or English language competency is below the required standard. In such instances or scenarios, students would require foundation or pathway programs that are often affiliated with or recognized by various institutions in Australia, which would enable students to gain entry for an undergraduate degree.

For example, foundation courses such as UNSW Foundation Studies are designed for students who require foundation preparation before accessing university degree courses and are accepted by many Australian universities.

ATAR and other selection ranks for domestic students

Domestic students in Australia are given a selection rank for entry into university, which is often the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). It is a percentage rank that is determined by the student’s performance in year 12, which is the average result of their academic performance relative to other students. A certain ATAR is often required for entry into certain courses.

Apart from ATAR, additional selection criteria in certain courses can include other things like interviews, portfolios, or auditions (in related to arts areas), or performance in certain subjects. 

Prerequisite subjects and assumed knowledge

Some of the bachelor degree courses require prerequisite subjects that students must have attended in high school. An example of this is for science or engineering courses that need prerequisite subjects such as mathematics or science subjects. This is to ensure that students possess assumed knowledge for coursework in their area of study.

Domestic students may also be required to meet their English proficiency needs using certain senior secondary school units of English.

Recognition of prior learning (credit from previous study)

In Australia, universities may accept prior learning or previous study as credit towards an application for entry into a university degree course. This could include formal qualifications gained through vocational or tertiary study, which can sometimes be credited or recognized for advanced standing in a degree course, shortening the time it takes to graduate.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is beneficial for students to transfer into the right level of study for which they qualify via their current learning or experience, and it is applicable for both local and international students who have prior learning accomplishments.

Why Students Choose Undergraduate Programs in Australia

Australia is one of the favored destinations for international students who opt to study for their undergraduate degree, with many interesting factors that influence students from other nations to start their university life in Australia. These factors range from international recognition to campus life and work opportunities.

Globally recognised qualifications

One of the factors that make Australia a favorite destination for students seeking undergraduate courses is that Australian university qualifications are recognized globally. This is because Australian institutions of higher learning are always among the best institutions globally, with their bachelor’s qualifications recognized universally by institutions of higher learning and employers. This is something that students who return home or continue their studies elsewhere appreciate.

Due to this international reputation, students who earn their degree in Australia can gain an advantage in the global workforce or educational setting.

Industry-focused learning and internships

Australian universities frequently integrate practical learning experiences into undergraduate curricula, such as internships, work placements, practicums or industry projects. These will provide students with the opportunity to apply what is being taught in their classrooms in real-world applications so that they can develop relevant work skills before completing their degree.

Additionally, institutions engage with employers to ensure that the students gain pertinent experience in their respective fields of study, which helps improve employability after completion of studies.

Pathway to postgraduate study and professional careers

Not only do Australian undergrad courses train students for entry-level work, but it is also a sound foundation for post-grad studies. After completing a bachelor’s degree, students can opt for an honors course, master’s degree, or even research-based doctorates. This systematic progression from undergrad to post-grad levels allows for flexibility in the Australian education system.

This is especially important for students who wish to pursue a specialized career or achieve a higher educational standard, as the degree gained at the undergrad level is imperative.

Strong support services and multicultural campus life for international students

Australian universities and colleges provide a wide range of support services for international students to enable a smooth transition into their new academic, social, and personal environments here in Australia. These services include orientation, academic support, career advice, counseling, as well as language support services.

Additionally, campuses in Australia are recognized for their multicultural communities. International students get the opportunity to network globally since students from various nations attend these institutions of higher learning. This provides international students with a sense of familiarity since they are surrounded by people from diverse cultures.

Work rights and part-time job opportunities while studying

One of the other major draws of pursuing an undergraduate degree in Australia is that students can work part-time while studying for their degree. International students with a Student Visa (subclass 500) are authorized to work 48 hours a fortnight throughout the term and unrestricted hours during the semester break. This is beneficial for students as they get an opportunity to earn some money while studying.

International students enjoy the same work rights as other employees in Australia with regard to wages, including the minimum wage, as well as ensuring that they are provided with good working conditions.

Undertaking a part-time job and other casual work is also beneficial for developing relevant skills for students, apart from gaining networking opportunities and learning more about the work culture of Australia.

Undergraduate vs. Bachelor’s Degree – Key Differences

“Undergraduate” is a broad category

Within the Australian educational system, the undergraduate is a collective term for various levels of higher learning credentials that are valid for students upon completing their secondary education. These credentials include certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees. 

An undergraduate degree is basically any form of higher learning that precedes graduate levels of learning. An example of an undergraduate certificate would require no more than six months of completion, while a diploma or associate degree would require one to two years of completion.

As “undergraduate” is a category of qualifications that is not one individual type of qualification, it is easier for students to compare levels of study with other postgraduate options. All bachelor degrees are classified as an undergraduate course, but an undergraduate course is not necessarily a bachelor degree.

“Bachelor’s degree” is one specific type of undergraduate qualification

The most popular and acknowledged kind of undergraduate degree is a bachelor’s degree. It is intended to provide thorough theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a selected field of study, such as business, science, engineering, or the arts, and usually requires three to four years of full-time study. With options to specialize through majors and electives, Australian bachelor’s degrees are designed to prepare students for professional careers or additional study. 

Shorter undergraduate degrees, such as certificates or diplomas, on the other hand, are usually less thorough and concentrate more on technical or foundational knowledge. Because of its breadth and depth, a bachelor’s degree is frequently the prerequisite for entry into postgraduate programs like honors programs, master’s degrees, or research pathways, as well as for many professional careers.

Why international students should understand this distinction

International students thinking about studying in Australia need to understand that the difference between undergraduate studies as a degree type and a bachelor degree as an educational title is of major significance for any educational decision:

• Choosing the right level of study: Some students may commence with an undergraduate diploma or certificate if they are still uncertain about committing to a degree without an introduction or requiring more time to enhance their study skills. These options may provide a pathway for students to progress into a bachelor’s degree.
• Career Planning: A bachelor’s degree provides more extensive learning opportunities in comparison to other forms of undergraduate degrees. Some occupations, such as engineering, teaching, or nursing, mandate a bachelor’s degree as their entry requirement.
• Further study: Having a bachelor’s degree provides opportunities for further study with an honours degree, master’s, or doctoral degree that would not be possible upon completion of other forms of undergraduate qualifications. This is important for students to understand since it assists with long-term plans for study or work.

Knowing that undergraduate is the umbrella category and bachelor’s degree is a specific, comprehensive undergraduate qualification helps students choose the right academic path, set realistic goals and navigate studies in Australia with greater confidence.

Tips for International Students Before Applying

Preparing for studying in Australia means more than selecting a course of study, with considerations including careful preparation, understanding the regulations, or understanding what is involved in evaluating options to get the best out of your experience. Here are essential tips to help you before you apply.

Researching course types and AQF levels

It is important to comprehend the qualifications that exist before the application process. These qualifications are linked by the Australian Qualifications Framework, which assists in ensuring consistency throughout the Australian educational system that encompasses certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and more.

Understanding the AQF allows you to compare study options, make informed decisions about what study level is best for you, or plan for your long-term educational objectives. You can make use of study search facilities such as Course Search Study Australia.

Checking CRICOS-registered institutions

International students are also required to study courses that are listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). CRICOS confirms that you are studying with a listed educational institution that meets high-quality measures that comply with the Australian Government.

Attending a CRICOS registered educational institution also triggers key consumer rights, for example, the Tuition Protection Service, that are a legal requirement for student visa holders

Comparing tuition fees and scholarship options

In Australia, tuition costs vary greatly based on the course, school, and place of study. Living costs in cities like Sydney or Melbourne can be high, and undergraduate programs for international students typically cost between AUD 20,000 and AUD 50,000 annually. You can effectively manage your budget by planning ahead and comparing costs at different universities.

Scholarships are yet another important consideration. Based on academic merit, financial need, or particular eligibility requirements, numerous Australian universities, government agencies, and outside organizations provide financial awards or scholarships to international students. You can significantly lower your overall costs by doing your homework and applying early for these. 

Understanding visa requirements for undergraduate students

After you get an offer of admission and your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, you’re eligible to make an application for a Student Visa (subclass 500). This visa will enable you to study in Australia on a full-time basis for the length of your course.

When you are preparing your application for a visa, make sure you understand what is involved with regard to proof of funds, health insurance (OSHC) cover, and valid travel documents so that you do not encounter any delays or problems.

Checking work rights, OSHC and cost of living in your city

Studying abroad is also about learning to manage your living expenses as well as understanding your legal rights. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a requirement for any type of international student visa, and this allows you to cover any health care you need in Australia. Various plans are available for you to purchase with Overseas Student Health Cover.

International students are allowed to work a maximum of 48 hours a fortnight during term times, while there are no restrictions on the number of hours that can be worked during the holidays. This is a fantastic way of gaining work experience or extra money without hampering your studies. Australia’s work laws look after student employees.

Accommodation, food, transport, and other costs also differ from one city to another. So, it is important that you conduct research about the living costs of your desired location.

How to read course pages, unit lists and learning outcomes

When searching for online courses, do not look only at the course name but explore other aspects of the course page. A list of units, information about the topics covered by the subjects, or the learning outcomes for a course can be accessed on the website of most institutions of higher learning. This is important as it helps one identify what is actually being covered in the learning process.

Pay attention to:

• Core vs elective units
• Work-integrated learning or internship opportunities
• Assessment methods and outcomes
• How the course aligns with your career goals

Knowing these aspects allows you to select a course that suits your educational interests as well as your long-term plans.

Common Misunderstandings About “Undergraduate” in Australia

Is a diploma or TAFE course considered undergraduate?

Whether diploma or TAFE courses qualify as undergraduate study in Australia is a frequently asked question. The type and provider of the qualification determine the response. According to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), diplomas can be either higher-education or vocational. Certain higher-education diplomas may be awarded by universities and qualify as undergraduate coursework. Even though they can serve as stepping stones to a bachelor’s degree, many diplomas and TAFE credentials are vocational and not regarded as the same. 

In practice:

• Diplomas that are issued by higher educational institutions (e.g. university diploma) fall into the larger group of undergraduate qualifications.
• These qualifications include those in the diploma or certificate category that are more vocationally oriented, often falling into the VET group, but also offer credit for some forms of higher education.

This implies that while a diploma can be a part of an undergrad program, it does not necessarily mean that it is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. This helps you make educated decisions concerning study plans.

Does “undergrad” always mean a 3-year bachelor’s degree?

A frequent error is that “undergraduate” automatically means a three year bachelor’s degree. Although bachelor’s degrees are a prominent type of “undergraduate” award, and many of these do indeed take three or four years full-time study to complete, the term “undergraduate” actually encompasses more study levels. Undergraduate qualifications recognized by the AQF include bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, as well as some diploma qualifications.

In other words:

• Some bachelor’s degrees actually do require three years (four for certain subjects).
• However, also encompassed in undergraduate are credentials such as associate degrees that last about two years, as well as some diplomas that are not regarded as degrees.

Thus, while “undergrad” refers to bachelor studies, it does not necessarily pertain to a three-year course, especially for the broader category of undergrad qualifications. This is better comprehended by referring to the levels of the AQF.

Can you be an undergraduate student and still study online or part-time?

Yes, being an undergrad student in Australia does not necessarily mean that you must be a full-time student on campus. This is because flexible study arrangements are widely offered by various institutions in Australia, such as online study for undergrad courses. This is true since both universities and TAFEs provide students with the opportunity to pursue diploma, associate degrees, as well as bachelor’s degrees either on a part-time or online study arrangement, depending upon the course or institution. Online study arrangements could be the best for students who are either working or taking care of their family.

Importantly

• A bachelor’s degree can be taken on a part-time or online basis, with students completing their required units of study over a longer period of time.
• Diplomas or associate degrees could also provide flexible delivery modes that would suit various lifestyles.
• This flexibility means you can be considered an undergraduate student without being in full-time, on-campus study.

Awareness of these alternatives allows students to schedule study times around their own commitments while still meeting their educational objectives.

Conclusion

An undergraduate study in Australia is basically the initial level of higher education, including more than just bachelor’s degrees. It could include certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, as well as pathway programs.

Understanding these options helps international students choose the right course, meet entry and visa requirements, and plan future study or career pathways with confidence.

Last updated on 21/12/2025