Undergraduate courses
If you’re studying for your first degree in a particular subject, you’re known as an undergraduate. The term can also be used to describe the degree you’re taking, e.g. an undergraduate degree.
Explore Deakin's undergraduate degrees
| Course type | Duration | Why study this type of course |
|---|---|---|
Associate degree | 2 years full time or part-time equivalent | Geared towards a specific career or used as preparation for a bachelor degree. Guaranteed entry into a bachelor degree on completion (as approved by Deakin). May give you up to 18 months' credit towards your next degree. Some roles only require an associate degree. |
Bachelor degree | 3 or 4 years full time or 6 years part time | The minimum requirement for many careers and prerequisite for a masters degree. You may choose a 'major' for your bachelor degree – the area of study from which you choose the majority of your units. |
Bachelor degree (honours) | 1 year full time or part-time equivalent | An additional year of specialised study, taken after you complete a bachelor degree – or as part of a bachelor degree. Can help you gain entry into further study and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. |
Postgraduate by coursework degrees
If you continue studying the same subject area beyond your undergraduate degree, you’re known as a postgraduate student – so your course is a postgraduate degree.
Explore Deakin's postgraduate by coursework degrees
| Course type | Duration | Why study this type of course |
|---|---|---|
| Professional practice degrees | Flexible | Innovative approach to study for busy professionals. Formal recognition of extensive experience, skills and knowledge gathered through your career and an opportunity to gain a professionally recognised qualification. |
| Graduate certificate | Usually 6 months full time or part-time equivalent | Adds practical, vocational skills to your undergraduate degree, diploma or previous work experience. |
| Graduate diploma | 1 year full time or part-time equivalent | Builds on the understanding and skills developed during a graduate certificate – or from work experience. Vocationally orientated and career specific. |
| Masters by coursework | 2 years full time or 4 years part time | Explores the subject of your bachelor or diploma in much greater depth. A prerequisite to a doctorate. You may choose a 'major' for your masters degree – the area of study from which you choose the majority of your units. |
Higher degree by research
A higher degree by research (HDR) from Deakin will help you become a specialist in your field. You'll build knowledge in your profession and contribute to strengthening academic ties to industry and communities. Our researchers enjoy access to world-class facilities and exceptional support services.
Explore Deakin's research degrees
| Course type | Duration | Why study this type of course |
|---|---|---|
| Masters degree by research | 2 years full time or 4 years part time | Explores the subject of your bachelor or diploma in much greater depth. A prerequisite to a doctorate. You may choose a 'major' for your masters degree – the area of study from which you choose the majority of your units. Masters by research students are allocated a dedicated research supervisor. |
| Doctorate | 2–4 years full time or part-time equivalent | The highest degree available in academia. PhD students conduct original research in order to progress in their chosen field. People choose to do PhDs if they want a career in academia – or if they want to reach higher levels in their non-academic jobs. |
Are you ready to apply to study at Deakin?
Looking forward to joining Victoria’s #1 university for student satisfaction?* Head to our How to apply page to get the support you need to successfully apply for your course at Deakin.
Vocational course types
If you want to start or progress a career in an area, such as children's services, horticulture or construction, certificates and diplomas teach you everything you need to know. If you're new to a subject, you’ll start at certificate II or III. Once you've got a good grounding, or if you've already got experience working in the industry, you can move on to certificate IV or a diploma.
These courses are great for furthering the skills and understanding you developed in certificates II, III and IV – or from relevant work experience, and to prepare you for more senior positions. Course duration is 1 year full time or 2 years part time.
Single units (non-award)
If you would like to get into a new course, you can undertake single units. Some units have prerequisites or special requirements but most are open to anyone.
At Deakin we offer more than 1500 different units of study across our undergraduate courses, so there’s plenty to choose from. One unit takes around one trimester (12 weeks) to complete.
Short courses
Short courses fill a knowledge gap in your current role, develop a specific set of skills to boost your immediate job prospects, or gradually strengthen your expertise to secure your long-term employability.
We also offer stackable short courses where you can study one individually or in parallel with others. Complete one for a standalone qualification or stack multiple towards a full Deakin degree.
Cross-institutional units
Students from other universities can apply to enrol in units at Deakin, or, Deakin students can apply to another university to enrol in units there and get credit for their Deakin course.
Got a question but can't find the answer?
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions our future student advisers get about applying to Deakin:
Applications
Skip to next topicHow do I apply?
If you're currently in Year 12, or applying for multiple courses or campuses, you must apply through VTAC. If you're applying direct to Deakin, first register and create an account on our application portal. For full details on how to complete your application, head to the how to apply page.
For more information on future student services and courses:
When do applications open?
Applications are now open. Not all courses are open at each application intake, so please check the relevant course page for full details. Learn more about how to apply.
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I'm having trouble creating an account on the application portal. How do I register?
If you've previously registered your details through the application portal, you won't be able to register again with the same email. If you don't remember your login details, don't worry – just contact Student Central on 03 9244 6333 or submit an enquiry online. You can also visit the application portal assistance hub for further support.
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What should I include in my personal statement?
Think of a personal statement like a job application cover letter. It should outline your motivation towards studying, your previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression.
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Can I get help to write my personal statement?
Yes! Please have a read of How to write a personal statement. You’re also welcome to chat to one of our friendly advisers on 1800 693 888 for advice on what to include in your personal statement.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Do I have to provide a personal statement?
It'll depend on the course you're applying for and its specific entry requirements. Either way, it will strengthen your chances of being offered a place at Deakin in your desired course. Check the entry requirements on the relevant course page for more information.
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How does a mature-age student apply?
If you're applying for more than one course in Trimester 1 you'll need to apply through VTAC. If you're applying for one course only, or multiple courses in Trimesters 2 and 3, you can apply direct to Deakin. Use our course finder to check entry requirements for your chosen course.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What is special consideration?
Special consideration acknowledges the hard work you've put in to get to uni, while recognising what you could have achieved if your circumstances were different. A successful application can adjust your rank. This means you can be offered a place in a course at Deakin, with a lower rank than would usually be required.
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How do I apply for special consideration?
Applying for special consideration is simple, and in some cases, you won't need to provide any details outside of your course application. The process is different for each VTAC category, or Deakin's programs, so please visit the relevant special consideration page for step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
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What is SEAS?
VTAC's Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) is for those who may not have been able to reach their full potential for study due to a range of challenging factors. SEAS enables institutions to consider the circumstances you've experienced and their impact on your studies when making selection decisions.
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What are SEAS aggregate points?
The Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) adds points to your aggregate to reflect the level you may have achieved if your circumstances had been different. This can increase your chance of receiving an offer but does not guarantee it. Deakin will give a maximum of 15 aggregate points per applicant.
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Are SEAS or subject adjustment points added directly onto my ATAR?
No, adjustments or bonus points are added to your aggregate score, not your ATAR. Your total aggregate score is then converted into your ATAR.
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I have submitted an application through VTAC, can I also submit an application directly to Deakin?
It depends on the course/s you're applying for, but generally, no. Get in touch with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 or via live chat to discuss your options.
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Can you tell me if I'm definitely eligible before I apply?
Unfortunately not. Multiple factors are taken into consideration when an application is being assessed. This includes individual course requirements, which are subject to change, and the quality and size of the cohort of the year or trimester you're applying in.
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When will I hear back about my application?
The general turnaround time for direct applications to Deakin is two to four weeks from submission. You can check the progress of your application by logging into the applicant portal. If you applied through VTAC your offers will be released in rounds.
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How do I find out my application status?
Once you've submitted your application successfully, you can log back into the application portal to check the progress of your application.
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When can I expect my offer?
Direct offers from Deakin are generally sent out two to four weeks post application. You can check the status of your application at anytime by logging into the application portal.
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Will my first preference still be considered if I receive an offer for a lower preference?
Yes, whether you're applying through VTAC or directly to Deakin, you may still be considered for your first or higher-preferred courses regardless of whether you've accepted, declined or deferred an offer for a lower preferred course.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What support is available to help me complete my application?
Get the best tips, advice and knowledge from our how to apply webinar series. Otherwise, our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre can provide you with step-by-step guidance on the application process. Get in touch on 1800 693 888 to chat with one of our friendly advisers and make sure you have all your questions answered.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Can I speak to someone in person about my study options?
Yes! We regularly host events, including 1:1 consultations and information sessions, to assist you with study options and career planning. You can also connect with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 from 9am-5pm weekdays, or chat with a team member live online from 8am-7pm Monday to Thursday and 9am-5pm Friday.
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Can I include references in my application?
Yes, you can! References are required for our MBA but are also welcome for other course applications. If you don't have an academic record, a written reference is considered to be a strong supporting document. Keep in mind, references may enhance your application but don't guarantee entry.
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Will references help my application?
A reference is considered to be a supporting document. If it provides more context about your work or life experience, it may enhance your application but will not guarantee you entry.
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Do I have to apply via VTAC if I'm not in Year 12?
If you're applying for more than one course in Trimester 1, you'll need to apply through VTAC. If you're applying for one course only, or multiple courses in Trimesters 2 and 3, you can apply direct to Deakin. Use our course finder to check entry requirements for your chosen course.
For more information on future student services and courses:
I didn't complete Year 12. Can I still apply?
Yes, if you've completed either Year 12 equivalent studies, such as a TAFE, VET or a private provider program, or have relevant work experience you can still apply to study at Deakin. Get in touch with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 to discuss your options.
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How do I apply for a scholarship?
Each Deakin scholarship has a unique set of entry requirements – be sure to check the individual scholarship page for full details on how to apply, as well as our top tips for scholarship applications.
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At what stage of the application process should I apply for a scholarship?
This depends on which scholarship you are applying for. To give yourself the best chance of success, browse the available scholarships and check the eligibility requirements. Make sure you pay close attention to the closing date for each scholarship as we cannot accept late applications, unfortunately.
Find out more about how to apply for a scholarship.
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Will I find out if I'm successful for a scholarship prior to getting an offer?
The application timeline for each Deakin scholarship is different – be sure to check the individual scholarship page for full details on dates and how to apply. You can also check out our top tips for scholarship applications.
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Do I need to provide certified transcripts with my application?
If you're applying as a domestic student, you won't need to provide certified documentation. However, if you've had a name change or change of status (i.e. residency) certified documents for these will be required.
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How long can I take to complete my degree?
At Deakin, you can switch between part-time and full-time study and set your own pace throughout your education. How long it takes will vary depending on the course you're interested in. Check the course page for details.
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Contact us
Apply with confidence. We're committed to giving you the guidance you need throughout the application process.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Email Future Students Team
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9034 6205
Email Deakin International
Enquire online
Footnotes
*Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2021 (GOS), Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT)