A course (commonly known as a subject) is normally one semester or session long, and is generally 12 units in value. The standard enrolment for a full-time student is four courses per semester.
A program, or a degree, is approved study in a discipline or field leading to an award of the university. (Example: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Business).
Courses for undergraduate degree programs
Students enrolled in undergraduate programs (ie a degree) are required to complete at least two of the three core courses in addition to a diverse range of introductory and advanced courses (ie subjects) offered by the three faculties:
A range of education courses and teaching areas are available for students enrolled in education programs.
An introductory level course has a number less than 200 in its course code (eg HIS100 ). An advanced level course has a code greater than 200 (eg ACC210 , SPL352 ).
A major is a sequence of eight courses from one area of study. A minor is a sequence of four courses from one area of study.
Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) courses
TPP courses provide prospective students with an alternative entry pathway to tertiary study. Upon successful completion of four TPP courses, students will be able to gain guaranteed entry into most USC degree programs through the standard QTAC application process.
Enabling courses
The University offers enabling courses in Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Statistics, Mathematics for Physics, Writing Skills and Computer Literacy for those students who may not have studied these in high school, or who need a ‘refresher’ prior to commencing tertiary study.
Study Abroad courses
Study Abroad is an opportunity for international students to earn credit towards a home degree while living and studying Study Abroad courses in Australia for one or two semesters, or for a six-week intensive program.
Entrepreneurship
Students in any of USC's faculties may take a four course minor in Entrepreneurship in their degree. The courses in the minor in Entrepreneurship utilise team projects, simulations, field work, workshops and a variety of other learning experiences to develop a range of work-related skills. Studying the minor will greatly assist students who are interested in developing their own business idea from concept to reality.
Sustainability
Students in any of USC's faculties may take a four course minor in Sustainability in their degree. The minor is designed for students who may want to study sustainability to understand the environment better, pursue research opportunities or play a part in promoting sustainable practices.
Continuing professional education
The University of the Sunshine Coast offers continuing professional education (CPE) courses as part of its commitment to the educational advancement of the region.
These short courses develop skills or knowledge in a professional area, outside the full degree programs offered by the University. Participants in CPE short courses will benefit from effective teaching, excellent course design and a positive academic environment.