Off-campus study at Deakin

Off-campus study (or distance education) is fast becoming the preferred way to combine study with work or family commitments. Students studying off campus by distance education take exactly the same course as on-campus students, except that instead of attending on-campus classes, you receive comprehensive study materials. These may include study guides, reading lists, and audio and video tapes, as well as the Deakin Software Essentials DVD. Off-campus students are supported through our award-winning library services, among the best in the world; and interactive study methods including:

Online conferencing - Deakin's use of online technologies means that studying off campus doesn't feel like studying at a distance. For peer support and for group and individual communication between our staff members and students, online conferencing is an increasingly important part of our teaching and learning environment.
Tutorial and tele-tutorial groups - Depending on local enrolments in the same units, we can form these groups between you and a University appointed tutor. As a group member, you have the opportunity to discuss any aspect of your unit with your tutor and to make contact with other students. The tutorials are usually held in Geelong, Melbourne and Warrnambool.
Weekend schools - These are conducted in some courses to enable you to meet our academic staff members and your fellow students. Depending on the unit, the school is usually held only once each trimester, over one or two weekend days. It is usually not compulsory to attend.

Please note: not all courses or units are available through off-campus study. Off-campus study is not available to school leavers in their first year of tertiary study and not available to international students unless they are living outside of Australia.

Approximately 40 per cent of Deakin students study by distance education. Deakin prepares its graduates to be confident and competent using online technologies and in online environments. Deakin uses online technologies to enrich learning experiences and add flexibility and value for all students. Deakin's online campus provides distance education students with additional access to online resources and services and opportunities for interaction.

In some fields students undertake higher degrees by research at a distance. Queries should be directed to the appropriate School or Faculty.
Due to visa conditions, certain off-campus courses can only be taken by international students who are living outside of Australia.
General information about higher degrees by research is available from Research Services Division.

Deakin supports distance education students by adapting its comprehensive range of services and activities to their circumstances. These begin with an orientation program for new students and extend to all areas of administrative and academic support.