How to progress from single subjects to a degree
By Jessica HinschenPublished on
Learn when you can move from single subjects into a degree, how previous study may count for credit, and what changes once you're admitted to your chosen qualification.
Starting with a single subject can be a great way to try university study before committing to a full degree.
You can build your confidence, explore an area you’re interested in and, in many cases, earn credit that can count towards a future qualification.
If you decide you’re ready to take the next step, you can apply for a degree that matches your goals and study history. Depending on the degree and university, the subjects you've already completed may also give you a head start through credit.
When can you move from single subjects to a degree?
You can apply for a degree when you meet the entry requirements for the qualification you want. If you're relying on your current single subject study to qualify, you'll need to wait until the required results have been released before applying.
I speak to many students who study an Open Access pathway through Open Universities Australia, which involves successfully completing two to four specified single subjects before applying for the related degree. These are often listed on the degree page, so you can see exactly what you need to complete before applying. Once you complete the required pathway subjects, they can be credited towards that degree.
I also support plenty of students who study single subjects that aren’t part of a specific pathway. If this is you, you may still be able to use your subjects towards a future degree, depending on the degree structure and the university's assessment of your previous study.
If you're still working out whether to study individual subjects or go straight into a qualification, compare applying for a degree vs enrolling in a subject.
How does the process work?
The process starts with choosing which degree you want to move into. My colleagues and I can help you map out your plan – so feel free to book a consultation with one of us.
From there, you can check whether your completed study helps you meet entry requirements and whether it may count towards the qualification.
- Choose the degree you want to study. Check its entry requirements and course structure.
- Check your completed subjects and results. If you're using single subjects as an entry pathway, make sure you've successfully completed the required subjects and received your results.
- Apply for the degree. If you meet the requirements, submit your application for admission to the qualification. The university may need to assess your information and ask for additional documents. For more on what to expect, read our dedicated guide to understand the full university application process.
- Check how credit applies. If you also wish to apply for recognition of prior learning (RPL) or credit, you’ll submit a separate form. The university offering the degree assesses your previous study and confirms which subjects, if any, can count towards the qualification.
- Plan what you'll study next. Once you're admitted (and any RPL or credit has been confirmed if relevant), you can work out which subjects remain in your degree structure.
If you don't yet meet the entry requirements, there may be another route into your preferred course.
What happens to the subjects you've already completed?
Your completed subjects may count towards your degree, but credit isn't automatic. The university offering the degree decides whether your previous study can be recognised within its course structure.
You'll usually need to follow the university's RPL or credit process to have your completed study assessed, even if it’s part of a tailored Open Access pathway. The amount of credit you receive can vary between degrees and universities.
When the subjects you’ve completed fit into a tailored pathway agreement (specified on the degree page of our website), you can receive credit towards the related degree.
If your subjects weren't part of a specific pathway, the university will assess whether they match the requirements of your chosen degree. Sometimes, students get credited for a specific subject if it’s similar enough to one listed as part of the course. Other times, a completed subject takes the place of an elective, which still shaves time off the degree.
If you want help understanding the steps to take, I recommend booking a consultation with one of us to discuss your specific situation.
What changes when you become a degree-admitted student?
The main change is that you're now working towards a specific qualification. Instead of choosing individual subjects on their own, you'll follow the structure and requirements of your degree.
That structure may include core subjects, electives and other requirements set by the university. If you've been granted credit for previous single subject study, those approved subjects can form part of your degree plan and reduce what you still need to complete.
Another important change once you’re admitted into a degree is you may become eligible for a Commonwealth supported place and HECS-HELP, whereas when studying single subjects, you’ll only be able to access FEE-HELP. You can read more the differences between these government funding options on our student loans page.
Through Open Universities Australia, you'll still study online and have choices about how you organise your study around other commitments, including part-time study options.
Need help with your university application?
If you're ready to move from single subjects into a degree, start by exploring qualifications that accept single subjects as an entry option. Check your preferred course's entry requirements and application dates.
For more support, you can then:
- Book a consultation with a student advisor for advice on your particular situation, and help with your application.
- Understand university application deadlines
- Read more about applying to university
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 moving from a single subject to a degree
Do I need to finish my current subject before applying for a degree?
Usually, if you're relying on that subject to meet the degree's entry requirements. In most cases, the result needs to be released before the application can be assessed, and we don’t submit conditional applications based on a pending subject result. If you already meet the entry requirements another way, check the degree information before applying.
Will all completed subjects count towards a future degree?
No. A completed subject may be eligible for credit if it fits the requirements of your chosen degree, but the university makes the final decision. If you already have a degree in mind, check its course structure before choosing single subjects.
Can I apply for a different study area than the subject I'm currently taking?
Yes, you can apply for a degree in a different study area, if you meet its entry requirements. Whether your current or completed subjects can count towards the new degree will depend on the university's credit assessment.
If you're thinking about changing direction, speak with a student advisor before applying. We can help you understand your options and choose a study path that fits your goals.
What happens if I don't meet the entry requirements for my preferred degree?
You can usually choose an alternative pathway into a degree. Some undergraduate degrees offered through Open Universities Australia allow you to complete specific single subjects first. Successfully completing those subjects can help you qualify for entry, with the pathway subjects then credited towards the degree, where the course rules allow it.
Can I move into a degree after studying subjects from different universities?
Potentially, yes. Studying subjects from different universities doesn't by itself stop you from applying for a degree. The university offering your chosen degree will assess whether your previous study helps you meet entry requirements. If you apply for RPL or credit, the university will also assess whether any subjects can receive credit.
Some degrees also have specific entry requirements that still need to be met. Universities often grant entry based on single subjects from another university but credit is dependent on how closely your previous study matches the requirements of the course.
Is there a deadline for moving from single subject study to a degree?
There isn't one deadline that applies to every degree. Application dates and study terms vary by university and qualification, so check the dates for the degree you want to enter. You’ll also need to wait until you have the single subjects results you need to complete your application.
Once you're admitted, the course structure that applies to you may also differ from the structure offered to future applicants if the degree later changes. Read more in our guide on university deadlines.
Who can help me decide whether I'm ready to apply for a degree?
A student advisor can help you compare degrees, understand entry requirements and work through how your existing study may fit into your plans.
If you're confident about the degree you want and you meet its requirements, you can also go ahead and apply. I recommend reading through our step-by-step guide to the application process.
