Your quick guide to subjects starting this winter
Studying a subject that fascinates you can keep your brain busy in the colder months. From literature to law to the natural world—see what’s starting soon.
Love it or hate it, winter is here. As the weather starts to bite, the days grow shorter, and we all start to rug up at home, it could be the perfect time of year to consider taking on some study.
You could sample a subject from a degree or simply study something you’ve always wanted to learn more about. Studying a subject in the cooler months can help keep your mind active—and may even stave off the winter blues.
There are plenty of subjects starting in mid-to-late July, especially across the humanities, business and law. The beauty is: you don’t have to be enrolled in a longer course to take these. They are standalone subjects open to anyone.
Why not see if there’s anything that takes your fancy?
Or are you more interested in getting a qualification? Explore degrees starting this winter instead.
Arts and humanities subjects
Even if you’re bunkering down at home, you can still expand your world view. Here are some of our favourite upcoming humanities topics.
Writing Family History
Uncover your past and bring your family’s story to life. In this subject, you’ll learn how find hidden stories, use historical records, and weave them together into a compelling narrative.
Who offers it? University of Tasmania
Duration: 8 weeks
Start date: 21 July (enrol by 13 July)
You may also like: Oral History, Research and Writing for Journalism.
Literature: Narrative Fiction
Deepen your love for great literature by learning to critically analyse how stories are told. Explore the key developments and defining voices of prose fiction from the early 20th century to today.
Who offers it? Griffith University
Duration: 13 weeks
Start date: 14 July (enrol by 6 July)
You may also like: Literature: Modern and Contemporary, Adaptations from Novel to Netflix, English: Texts and Traditions.
Introducing Indigenous Australia
Deepen or challenge your cultural understanding by exploring Indigenous history and contemporary perspectives.
Who offers it? Macquarie University
Duration: 13 weeks
Start date: 28 July (enrol by 20 July)
You may also like: Language in Aboriginal Australia, Introducing Indigenous Lifeworlds.
Political Theory
Explore some of the most important values, concepts and theories that have defined political philosophy since the Second World War—from civil rights to justice to gender.
Who offers it? La Trobe University
Duration: 12 weeks
Start date: 28 July (enrol by 20 July)
You may also like: Understanding International Politics, How do Societies and Economies Interact? Competing Approaches in Political Economy.
Business and economics subjects
Curious about how business really works—but not sure where to start? Whether you're building confidence or aiming higher, these subjects will help you gain practical skills, sharpen your economic insight, and unlock new opportunities.
Business Intelligence
Learn how to use data to make smart business decisions. This subject gives you the tools to analyse information, build a persuasive business case, and share insights clearly—no tech background needed.
Who offers it? Griffith University
Duration: 13 weeks
Start date: 14 July (enrol by 6 July)
You may also like: Data and Analysis, Business Communication.
Economic Policy in Action
Our historical moment is throwing up all kinds of economic challenges and changes. This subject can help you understand how economic thinking is applied in the real world.
Who offers it? University of Tasmania
Duration: 14 weeks
Start date: 21 July (enrol by 13 July)
You may also like: Forecasting for Economic Decision-Making, Sustainable Economics.
Self-Marketing
Want to build your personal brand and stand out in a competitive job market? Learn how to apply marketing principles to yourself—helping you apply for a new role, or present yourself with more confidence in your current profession.
Who offers it? Griffith University
Duration: 13 weeks
Start date: 14 July (enrol by 6 July)
You may also like: Business Marketing, Principles of Marketing.
Science and environment subjects
There’s never been a more important time to understand our planet. Embrace your inner science nerd to learn about our climate, conservation, and how science shapes our future.
A Primer of Marine and Antarctic Science
Dive into the wonders of our oceans and polar regions. Discover the richness of marine life, why it matters, and what’s at stake as our environment changes.
Who offers it? University of Tasmania
Duration: 14 weeks
Start date: 21 July (enrol by 13 July)
You may also like: Marine Surveying and Inspection, Earth Evolution.
Climate Change, Natural Resources and Conflict
Explore how climate change and competition over resources can fuel conflict—or open paths to peace. You’ll dive into case studies from the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Who offers it? Murdoch University
Duration: 13 weeks
Start date: 28 July (enrol by 20 July)
You may also like: Nature, People, Place. Introduction to the Science of Climate Change
Law subjects
Want to better understand your rights and how to advocate for others? Learn how laws are made, challenged, and used to protect people with these intro-level subjects. No prior study is needed; just a passion for learning and a drive to make a difference.
International Human Rights Law and Practice
Understand more about the global human rights system—from the role of the United Nations to treaties and non-government organisations.
Who offers it? Curtin University
Duration: 14 weeks
Start date: 21 July (enrol by 13 July)
You may also like: Global Justice, Aid and Security, States, Security and International Relations
Legal Research & Writing
Sharpen your writing and learn how to uncover reliable information, whether you want to pursue a legal career or simply apply these skills in your everyday life.
Who offers it? University of Notre Dame Australia
Duration: 13 weeks
Start date: 21 July (enrol by 13 July)
You may also like: Foundations of Law, Legal Philosophy.
Want to explore more subjects?
Browse the entire collection of available subjects starting this winter.
If you’re ready to take the next step but still have questions, we’re here to help. Book a free phone consultation with one of our friendly student advisors. We’ll guide you through your options, provide the support you need, and help you discover where your learning journey can take you.
