Applying for a degree vs enrolling in a subject
By Jessica HinschenPublished on
Learn when to apply for a degree, when to enrol in a single subject and how each option can support your online study goals through Open Universities Australia.
Trying to understand applying for a degree vs enrolling in a subject?
Applying for a degree means applying to a university to study a full qualification. During your degree, you'll enrol in individual subjects each study period.
Enrolling in a subject means choosing to study a single unit during a specific study term. Through us, you can enrol in subjects without necessarily applying for a full degree. This is a popular option that may suit you if you’re looking for more flexibility, want to build study experience to meet entry requirements for a degree, or have a specific learning goal in mind.
Learn more about the university application process.
Through Open Universities Australia, both options lead to online study with Australian universities. The right starting point depends on your goal, entry eligibility and confidence about committing to a qualification.
A quick glance comparison
The main difference is the outcome. A degree application seeks admission to a qualification. A subject enrolment lets you study one or more units during a particular study term.
What to compare | Applying for a degree | Enrolling in a subject |
|---|---|---|
Main goal | Enter and complete a qualification | Complete subject(s) and not necessarily a full qualification |
Entry process | The university assesses your application against its award requirements | Many undergraduate subjects are open for enrolment without entry requirements, while some have prerequisite requirements |
Study commitment | Work through the degree structure and study load requirements | Choose one or more subjects for a study term |
Study outcome | Graduate with a qualification after meeting award requirements | Receive a record of results upon completing subject(s) |
Possible uses | Attain a qualification | Build entry eligibility, explore an area, upskill or study for personal interest |
If plans change | University rules may require you to request a leave of absence | You can choose not to enrol in another subject for the next study term |
Credit towards a degree | Previous studies and/or work experience may shave time off your degree, as assessed by the university | Completed subjects may count if they fit the degree rules assessed by the university |
Understanding degree applications
A degree application is how you apply to study a full qualification at a university, such as a bachelor degree, masters degree or another eligible course offered through Open Universities Australia.
The university checks your application against the published entry requirements. Depending on the course, it may consider:
- your previous university or vocational study
- your relevant work experience
- your completed single subjects
- any other course-specific entry requirements
Check the course page before applying, as requirements differ.
After you apply, the university assesses your information. They may ask for extra documents before making a decision. If your application is approved, you are sent an offer to accept. Upon accepting your offer, you are admitted into the degree.
After you are admitted, you will need to get familiar with your university’s learning management system (LMS) and complete some administrative tasks which may include learning modules or an electronic Commonwealth assistance form (eCAF) if relevant, which is what you fill out to apply for a HELP loan.
Your university is likely to share this over email, so please keep an eye on your inbox.
Understanding subject enrolments
A subject enrolment lets you study an individual unit in a particular study term. It does not, by itself, admit you to a degree.
Many undergraduate subjects offered through Open Universities Australia allow you to enrol without first applying for a full qualification, or meeting any entry requirements. Most postgraduate subjects have restrictions, so you may need approval before you can enrol.
Single subjects can support several goals. You might use them to:
- meet entry requirements for a degree using a pathway known as Open Access
- explore a study area before committing
- add a specific skill to your resume
- study a topic for personal interest
- complete cross-institutional study for your current degree
After enrolling, your university will soon send instructions for accessing its online learning management system. It will also explain any forms or preparation tasks you need to complete.
If you want the subject to count towards a qualification, check before enrolling. The subject must fit the degree requirements and meet the relevant university policies.
Key differences
Admission
A degree application includes a formal admission decision. The university checks that you meet its entry requirements before admitting you.
Some single subjects allow direct enrolment without a degree application. Restrictions, prerequisites and availability can still apply.
Commitment and study breaks
If you need a break while studying your degree, you’ll need to apply for a Leave of Absence. You can read more about this on our study planning page.
Single subject study can offer more choice from one study term to the next. You can simply stop enrolling when you want a break.
Qualification outcome
When you’re studying a full degree, you’ll work towards a defined qualification goal. You will need to complete the required subjects and follow the degree award requirements to achieve this.
Completing single subjects alone does not result in a degree. You need admission to a degree and must complete award requirements to graduate.
However, you may be able to use single subjects as credit towards a degree. Learn how to transition from single subjects to a degree.
Which option is right for you?
Apply for a degree if you meet the entry requirements and know which qualification you want. Consider single subjects if you want to build eligibility, explore an area or study without committing to a degree.
You may prefer to apply for a degree if:
- you already meet the admission requirements
- you want to complete a qualification
- you know what you want to study
- you are ready to follow a degree structure
You may prefer to enrol in single subjects if:
- you are returning after a long study break
- you want to rebuild confidence with one subject
- you are comparing different study areas
- you want to satisfy entry requirements for a degree using Open Access
- you want to upskill or study for interest
- your current university has approved cross-institutional study
When I help students compare these options, I start with their end goal. If your goal is a degree and you already qualify, applying directly can avoid an extra admission stage later. If you are still deciding, one relevant subject can give you useful experience before committing.
Can you apply or enrol online?
Yes. You can apply for a degree or enrol in eligible subjects online through Open Universities Australia.
Check the course or subject page for entry requirements, start dates and required documents.
If you're unsure, you can get no-cost, unbiased advice from a student advisor. We can talk through your options with you, help you work out what might suit your situation and make the next step feel a little clearer.
You can even book a free phone consultation with one of us. Learn what a consultation involves and how to prepare.
Explore your options through Open Universities Australia
Follow these links to take your next step, depending on what you want to do:
About the author
Jessica Hinschen
Student advisor specialising in applications and enrolments
Jessica is a student advisor at Open Universities Australia who knows the ins and outs of university applications and enrolment processes. She’s supported students in a wide range of situations, helping them understand what’s required, find useful resources and work through their next steps.
FAQs about applying for a degree vs enrolling in a subject
Can you apply for a degree and enrol in a subject at the same time?
It may be possible, but starting with one clear route usually avoids confusion. If your goal is a degree and you meet the entry requirements, apply first. A student advisor can check what suits your situation before you act.
Which option offers the most flexibility if your circumstances change?
Both options offer flexibility, but the process for taking a break differs. With single subjects, you can choose not to enrol in the next study term. As a degree student, you will need to request a leave of absence under your university's rules.
Which option is better if you're returning to study after a long break?
Single subjects can suit you if you want to rebuild confidence by starting with a smaller commitment. If you feel ready and already qualify, applying directly for the degree can avoid an extra stage. Start with your end goal and preferred study load.
Do degree applicants and single subject students receive the same qualification outcome?
No. Completing single subjects can give you an academic record, but it does not award a degree. To graduate, you must be admitted to a degree and complete all its requirements.
Can you study subjects from different disciplines before deciding on a degree?
Yes. Single subjects can help you explore different study areas before choosing a degree. Check prerequisites first, and do not assume every completed subject will count towards your eventual qualification.
Can you study single subjects across different universities?
Yes. Open Universities Australia offers single subjects from many of Australia’s leading universities. If you want them credited to a current or future degree, check the relevant university's course rules before enrolling.
