Academic expectations

As a student of CSU, you will need to know about several areas relating to time requirements for study, research and assessment, how you will be taught, and how subjects may be assessed, and possible costs in addition to tuition fees that you may encounter, for example for travel, specialist equipment or uniforms, etc.

Time requirements

Whether you are studying on campus or by distance education, for each 8 point subject at CSU, you should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours per subject (around 10 - 12 hours per week) engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, completing assignments or undertaking examinations).

The student workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

Teaching methods and subject design

CSU is committed to the flexible delivery of learning and teaching. Depending on your course and whether you study on campus or by distance education, you'll enjoy a variety of teaching modes such as tutorials, online learning, workplace learning and laboratory work.

You will also receive information and other resources relevant to the subject (which may include general online resources).

On campus

Typical teaching methods include:

• lectures
• tutorials
• laboratory work
• field trips
• excursions
• workplace learning and field, clinical or professional placements

Workplace learning

Some courses include a period of compulsory practical experience or provide opportunities for workplace learning. This experience can be part of an individual subject or may be offered as a subject in its own right. For more information, visit the relevant online course information.

Prior to commencing any period of practical experience, students in some courses may be required to undertake a criminal records check and/or medical examinations or immunisation. Students are responsible for any costs involved in these items or in relation to travel/accommodation/meals while on placement, uniforms or special equipment required.

Textbooks and reference materials

You will normally be expected to purchase the textbook(s) for your subjects. Each campus has a large library where you will be able to consult the recommended readings and other references prescribed for each subject.

More about on campus learning and teaching

Distance education

The University's extensive online environment provides you with access to the services and facilities you will need during your time as a CSU student. As a distance education student, these online facilities and services will form an essential component of your study, and will also meet many of your administrative and social needs as a student.

Textbooks and reference materials

You will normally be expected to purchase the textbook(s) for your subjects. Distance education students have access to CSU's libraries through the Library catalogue, with texts able to be posted out in many cases, or (subject to copyright laws) parts copied and emailed to you. The library also hosts a wide range of online resources.

More about distance education learning and teaching

Assessment tasks

On campus

For on campus students, attendance at classes is one of the ways your performance in each subject may be assessed. Depending on your course, other methods of assessment may include;

• self evaluation and journals
• multiple choice and true/false questions
• participation in tutorials, workshops, forums and discussions
• written essays and tutorial papers
• reports
• class presentations
• online assessment tasks, such as worksheets or short quizzes
• assignments and workbooks
• practical performance, i.e. in laboratory work or professional placements
• mid-session, in class, or final examinations

More about on campus assessment

Distance education

Distance education students are assessed through a combination of methods that vary depending on the course being undertaken. In some subjects, an assessment may be held online, giving instant feedback to the student on their performance, or it may be part of a residential school.

Assessment can include:

• written essays and tutorial papers
• reports
• online assessment tasks, such as worksheets or short quizzes
• practical work, field or laboratory work as part of a residential school
• forum participation and postings, and participation in online discussions
• mid-session or final examinations

More about distance education assessment

Additional costs

In addition to cost per subject for tuition, subjects may involve costs to the student, including;

• textbook(s) or study materials such as paper, folders, books or creative materials
• laptops or specific computer programs
• protective equipment, (i.e. lab coats, glasses, gloves)
• uniforms
• purchase of specialist equipment
• travel, accommodation and meals while attending residential schools, internships or work or professional placements
• immunisations, criminal record clearances, attainment of Senior First Aid certificate