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Much of the information on this page is available in our Return to Learn brochure, which can be viewed here.
Is university really for me?
University is for everyone. Students of all ages and from very diverse backgrounds choose to study at the University of Tasmania for many different reasons:
- achieving a lifelong goal
- improving career prospects,
- consolidating a current career
- preparing for a career change
- the joy of learning
Will I be the only one?
You won’t be alone! Around 40% of our students are over the age of 25, and 19% are over the age of 35. Our experience shows that mature age students are often more successful than younger students. Your wealth of experience and life skills will be invaluable for time management, motivation and commitment – all very important qualities for university study.
What courses can I choose?
For a complete list of courses available at UTAS, as well as information about prerequisites and entry requirements, click on the “Courses on Offer” button (to the right of this screen), or contact the Uni Info Centre on 1300 363 864 to request a copy of our Course Guide.
How do I qualify for study at UTAS?
Mature-aged applicants normally apply under the Alternative Entry category. This means that your application is assessed on the basis of a supporting statement addressing the following selection criteria:
- academic and employment background
- relevant skills
- demonstrated interest in the course
- equity or other special considerations
Remember, there are no “right answers”, but it is in your interests to provide us with information under each of the criteria.
If you have:
- completed studies at TAFE (Cert III or higher),
- prior University study (either completed or partially completed), OR
- successfully completed a University enabling program
you won’t need to provide us with a supporting statement when you apply.
How much work is involved?
Required attendance at lectures and tutorials (called “contact hours”) can be as little as 12 hours a week for a full-time enrolment, but the timetabling may be scattered throughout the week. You should think of full-time study as equivalent to a full-time job – that is, about 36 hours a week, or 8-9 hours per subject. Included in this study time is reading for tutorials, assignment preparation, and study for any end-of-semester exams.
Can I fit university into my life?
Many people who return to study have other demands, like family and jobs. The good news is that you can plan your course to suit your life.
Part-time and off-campus study
Most courses can be studied part-time, and some courses include options for off-campus study, such as print- or web-based distance education. This means that you can continue to work or care for young children while you are a student. You can also vary the amount of study from year to year, according to your circumstances.
Access to facilities
Many of the University’s facilities can be accessed out of normal working hours. A number of computer labs have 24-hour access, and the University Library is open most evenings during the week. Computer facilities and UTAS support materials are also available at your local Online Access Centre and State Library branch.
Childcare
For students with children, reliable childcare is a necessity for peace of mind. In addition to listed childcare providers across the State, the University has on-campus childcare centres in Hobart and Launceston.
Can I get recognition for my previous study?
If you have undertaken studies at another institution, you may be entitled to credit. The faculty responsible for your course gives advice about what documentation to provide and makes the final decision on the credit.
There are articulation and credit arrangements between TAFE Tasmania and the University of Tasmania. For detailed information go to the TAFE to Uni webpage.
What support is available?
We understand that starting at university can be quite daunting, especially if it has been a number of years since you last did any formal study. UTAS has a number of support programs to assist you in the transition to university, for detailed information, including how to apply go to Preparation Programs.
What are the costs?
For detailed information of all costs relating to studying at UTAS in 2008 go to Course Costs.
Who can I contact for further information?
For information about courses at UTAS and the application process, contact the Uni Info Centre on 1300 363 864 or Course.Info@utas.edu.au.
For information about the range of services provided to UTAS students go to the First Year website .
UTAS also holds annual Uni Info Days during August at all three campuses. They are a great opportunity to talk to current students and academics about the courses offered, and see the University’s facilities. This years’ Uni Info Days will be held as follows:
| Sunday 17 August |
Launceston campus |
| Sunday 24 August |
Hobart campus |
| Saturday 30 August |
Cradle Coast (Burnie) campus |
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