Start uni now with the top 10 courses students begin with

Deciding to take the leap is one thing. Knowing which course is right for your goals is another. That’s why we’ve collated the top courses students usually start with.

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New students are often buzzing with questions like, “Which courses are easy to study?”, “What are the best courses to study online?” and “What are the good courses to study in Australia?”. 

While there’s no single answer, a great place to start is considering those who have come before you. Thousands of students found the below subjects an ideal way to dip their toe into university study.

Before we jump in, it’s worth remembering this: through Open Universities Australia, you can study single subjects with full government funding (pending eligibility). It’s an ideal way to test drive study without committing to an immediate financial responsibility.

Once you complete a subject, you can decide whether you’d like to forge forward with a full degree. We’re here to make that first step as easy (and exciting) as possible. 

1. Child Development for Educators

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

If you’re interested in a future influencing the minds of tomorrow, this is an ideal foundation. You’ll learn the most important theories of childhood development, so that you can pave your path with confidence. Discover the typical and atypical in cognitive and emotional development and complete your course with a strong understanding of what lies within educators’ duty of care. 

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2. Teaching and Learning in the Digital World

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

Teaching through technology is a necessity in this day and age. Choose this subject and you’ll learn how technology can enhance the education experience for students – whether you’re already a teacher or would like to become one in the future. During this course, you’ll sample a range of tech resources for digitising the classroom. 

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3. Introducing Language, Literacy and Literature for Educators

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

If you envision educating others on literacy, why not start with sharpening your own understanding of the field? With this subject, you’ll be able to develop confidence in your own use of language professionally and academically, as well as understand its role in society and community. 

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4. Introduction to Programming

RMIT UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None, however admittance into a degree may be required.  

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

Who doesn’t want to learn to program? It’s fast become an in-demand field of employment, with strong growth expected in years to come. In short, this means you can expect plenty of job opportunities if you hone your craft. And this subject? It’s a great way to start.  You’ll learn how to program using the Java programming language.

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5. Introduction to Legal Studies

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

Toying with the idea of becoming a lawyer? A smart way to flex those smarts is to give the field a try with a single subject before committing to a full degree. Gain an understanding of Australian and international legal systems. Get to know how court systems and law-making institutions work so that you might make a difference in the future.  

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6. Introduction to Nutrition

LA TROBE UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

Are you someone who finds the fuel that lies within a well-balanced meal downright fascinating? A future in nutrition could be for you. Study this introductory subject and you can build your understanding of the human body and its dependencies on food. You’ll also deconstruct diet myths and empower yourself by analysing dietary guidelines.

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7. Introduction to Information Technology

RMIT UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

Information technology is now heavily relied on in almost every industry. Study this field, and you’ll have countless potential paths for your future. In this introductory subject, you’ll learn about IT trends, concepts, software and applications. You’ll also gain the skills to apply this knowledge in business settings. 

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8. Exploring and Contesting Curriculum

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: Online

Why should you choose this course?

Understand what curriculum is and how you might implement it – whether you’re thinking about a future in the field or would like to polish your pre-existing skills. By studying this subject, you’ll cover key terms, models and processes that create learning experiences within the Early Years Learning Framework. Finish the course feeling empowered, not afraid of curriculum. 

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9. Introduction to Psychology I

MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

If you’ve always had an interest in human behaviour and personality, this is an ideal subject to begin with. You’ll learn the psychological basis of behaviour, learning, motivation and personality. As this is an introductory subject, you’ll also build skills in critical thinking and essay writing in psychology. Why not go for it?

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10. The Purpose of Business

GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY

Entry requirements: None

Study method: 100% online

Why should you choose this course?

Have you always believed business is about more than just business? This is the course to solidify those thoughts and spread your wings. Understand and gain perspective on the values of leadership, integrity, ethical behaviour, respect for others, trust and sustainable enterprise. Study the impact of these through case studies so that you can develop solutions for future roles.  

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