Start your studies when it suits you
At Deakin we understand that juggling work, life and study can be complicated. That’s why we offer Start Anytime, so that you can fit your studies around your life and other commitments.
With Start Anytime, you no longer have to wait until the usual trimester intake to start your course. You can commence a unit at the beginning of any month during the year without needing to wait. Start Anytime also allows you to fast-track and complete a unit in as little as four weeks, or you can take your time over a longer period.
Start Anytime learning structure
The unique Start Anytime learning structure offered via our online learning platform allows you to study at a time and place that suits you. Your classroom is online, so you can enjoy easy access to all the support you need, including course materials, orientation resources, and online study support. You’ll work in real time with academics and fellow students, participate in discussions, get one-on-one assistance, and receive timely feedback on your assignments.
What’s more, Start Anytime assignment deadlines are either self-selected or tailored to your progress, meaning you can complete your work within your own time.
What can you study?
Start Anytime units are available in selected courses across a range of study areas, and will continue to be added to selected courses.
Business and law
Start Anytime units offered are:
- Agile Project Management (MIS778)*
- Foundation Skills in Data Analysis (MIS770A)*
- Strategic Brand Management (MMK739)^
*Maximum six months
^Maximum one year
These units are part of several postgraduate business degrees, including the Master of Business Analytics.
Science, engineering and built environment
Start Anytime units offered are:
*Maximum one year
To enrol in these units, students must have an approved placement and have completed the Introductory work placement unit Career Tools for Employability (STP010).
Study a stackable short course
Deakin's stackable online short courses are flexible, fast and affordable and give you the skills you need now. They're designed to stack together as credit towards a full Deakin postgraduate degree.
Got a question but can't find the answer?
We've curated some of the most commonly asked questions asked about flexible study options. Browse our full range of FAQs by visiting Help hub.
Start Anytime
Skip to next topicWho can take a Study Anytime unit?
There are Study Anytime units available for a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses – it can even be your first unit of study at Deakin.
Check the relevant unit or course page for any prerequisites or for more details.
For more information on future student services and courses:
How does the assessment work?
Details of the assessments for Start Anytime units are available in the relevant unit information sites. Please refer to the University Handbook, select the year you want to complete your Start Anytime unit, and then search for the relevant unit code.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Are there any exams?
No. There are no scheduled exams in Start Anytime units.
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Are there timetabled classes?
No. That’s the best part – you learn at your own pace. The unit is designed in a way that allows you to go as quickly (or slowly) as you want.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What support is available?
Students will receive a range of academic and learning support through Deakin’s online learning platform. There is access to online resources, workshops and forums to assist your learning.
Help is also available from the Deakin Library and Study Support.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What does it cost?
Start Anytime units cost the same as the normal trimester version of the units. Use our fee estimator tool to find out what the costs are.
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When are my Start Anytime fees due?
The due date for fees will depend on the study period you are enrolled in. A full listing of study periods and due dates is available from the current students fees webpage.
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Are Start Anytime units eligible for HELP?
Yes, normal HELP (HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP) arrangements apply for students who meet the eligibility and citizenship requirements.
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Can I do more than one Start Anytime unit at the same time?
Yes, providing they fit into your course structure and your load.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Can I do a Start Anytime unit at the same time as a trimester unit?
Yes, you can. We recommend that all students seek advice and carefully plan each year’s unit enrolments before enrolling in a Start Anytime unit to ensure that you can complete your course within the required timelines.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What will appear on my transcript?
The unit code, your mark, and your grade – this is the same information that you would receive for all of your other units.
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Will I have access to Deakin services?
Yes! All Start Anytime units are taken online via Deakin’s online learning platform along with a whole host of learning and student resources. If you live near one of our campuses you are welcome to drop in and use the services available.
For more information on future student services and courses:
How do I apply?
Where there is a Start Anytime unit available in a Deakin course, you can apply to start your course at any time during the year – just select the ‘Start Anytime’ option in the Deakin Application Portal.
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How do I enrol?
Current students can enrol in Start Anytime units online through StudentConnect – just search for the unit code. We recommend that all students seek advice and carefully plan each year’s unit enrolments to ensure you can complete your course within the required timelines.
For more information on future student services and courses:
When do I enrol?
There is an enrolment deadline and census date each month for Start Anytime units. Details can be found on our Start Anytime dates page.
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Contact us
To find out more about Start Anytime units, our staff at Student Central are available to answer your queries.