The most asked about subjects
You’ve got an itch to to unlock your true potential, so you start browsing online courses. But with many choices on offer you wonder: “How do I choose the right one?” Senior Student Advisor Tandy reveals the most asked-about subjects.

Should you choose a subject that aligns with your passions? Or are you hunting for new skills to bring to your career?
You’re not the first person to face these decisions, which is why we have an entire team of Australia-based student advisors dedicated to helping you.
They know exactly how to match your needs with a subject that’ll inspire you. They’re familiar with all the questions you’re asking yourself – and there’s a good chance they’ve answered a lot of them already.
Senior Student Advisor Tandy reveals the most asked-about subjects through Open Universities Australia, and sheds light on some common questions along the way.
So, what are the most asked-about subjects right now?
1. Study subjects that help people
“We’re seeing a lot of enquiries about fields that involve working with people, especially in ways of helping others,” Tandy shares.
These subject areas include:
If you’re interested in using your study to help others, you’ll find many subjects available through Open Universities Australia.
To narrow down your choices, you could ask yourself what you hope to get out of the course.
Are you already engaged in healthcare and looking to upskill? Introduction to Nutrition could offer new perspectives on how food supports the health of our population. Enrol by 25 May with La Trobe University.
Cognitive Psychology is another subject that could lead towards a career helping people – or simply give you a deeper understanding of those around you. Enrol by 22 June with University of South Australia.
What people are asking:
“What sort of work can I do upon completing this course?”
Psychology subjects could inform your career in counselling, social work, or art therapy. Education subjects could lead towards work in the classroom, while health science might lead into your career in chronic disease management.
Ask our student advisors how to build your career, starting with a single subject.
“What are the pathways to registration?”
This is a common question for Tandy, and every field has a different answer. Book a consultation with a student advisor to learn how you can work towards registration, and if it’s needed to meet your specific career goals.
2. Study STEM subjects online
“We’re also seeing other growing areas, particularly in STEM,” Tandy says.
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and maths – and a lot of people are asking about these particular subject areas:
Some courses, like Mathematics Essentials in Data Analytics with University of South Australia, don’t require an ATAR for entry. You could complete this STEM subject within just 10 weeks. Enrol by 22 June.
Interested in the ‘science’ part of STEM? Enrol in Dinosaurs! with the University of New England by 15 June.
Online STEM subjects can open the door to further study – but they’re also a lot of fun!
What people are asking:
“What are the costs and funding options available for me?”
Through Open Universities Australia, you can access financial assistance – even for single subjects, if you’re eligible.
Once you’ve chosen your subject, simply book a consultation with a student advisor who can answer your questions about HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, and other options.
Learn more about financial options.
“What have other students said about this course?”
This is a popular question for Tandy. After all, it’s only natural to want to know how others before you have found the course you’re interested in.
You can always book a consultation for questions like this. Our student advisors listen to student feedback all day long, so in most cases they’ll be able to tell you how others have found the course you’re interested in.
3. Study your passion online
When it comes to study, there’s never a wrong choice. Sometimes it’s as simple as following your heart.
As Tandy says: “We are also asked for courses that students take for personal interest.” These include:
Fans of science fiction might enjoy Textual Futures with Curtin University – a subject that could count towards a Bachelor of Arts. Enrol by 25 May.
Passion for justice? You may be interested in Police, Courts and Criminal Law with Griffith University, which you could also use as course credit down the track. Enrol by 25 May.
Some of the most asked about subjects are designed to boost your existing career. Strategic Management with University of South Australia will enhance your leadership skills in the workplace.
The university also offers an Introduction to Construction Business Management, which could help you lead your next project in construction. Enrol in these subjects by 22 June.
Book a consultation with a student advisor, and you can learn about using your favourite subjects as course credit towards further study.
What people are asking:
“Is part time available for this course?”
When you study through Open Universities Australia, you’re in control of your study-life balance. Enrol in a degree part time, full time, or complete one subject at a time without the commitment of further study.
“Will there be exams?”
It’s the question on everyone’s mind. Rest assured, not all subjects include exams (although, some do). Assessments often include presentations, reports and more. Find more information on each subject page, or book a consultation to ask a student advisor directly.
Ready to get started? Book a free consultation with our student advisor to ask about your favourite subject. They’ll call back with unbiased advice, at no cost, at a time that suits you. Yes, really.
Browse thousands of courses from leading Australian universities.
Or complete the form on this page to chat to an advisor about study options.