The ultimate summer courses guide
The summer months are a perfect time to get in some extra learning. From languages to design to podcasting courses, let’s see what’s on offer.
Ah, summertime. Longer days and warmer weather are here and many of us are ready to rejoice. Some of us, though, would prefer to shut all the doors and blast the A/C to arctic levels.
Whatever category you fall into, the summer months could be the ideal time to sign up to an extra subject or enrol in a short course. Learning something new is a New Year’s resolution for a lot of us… and imagine just how good you’ll feel if you tick it off in the first part of the year.
From language learning to audio journalism to entrepreneurship, there are plenty of summer courses available. Let’s see if anything tickles your fancy.
Why study over summer
There are many good reasons to hit the books over summer. You may want to get a head start on your course for the coming year; or you could just be keen to stretch your brain in new ways by taking on a language or arts subject.
If it’s the former, you’ll put yourself a subject ahead and study in a quiet period, which could take the pressure off you a bit for the rest of the year.
Our favourite upcoming summer courses
There are loads of options for summertime learning. All these options are single subjects, available to study online. Make sure you check the enrolment and start dates for each, as they vary.
Programming and digital
There’s never been a better time to pick up some coding and digital skills. Make the most of your summer schedule by trying Web Design, Problem Solving and Programming or Introduction to Digital Media offered by Adelaide University (enrol by 4th January for a 12th January start).
Languages
Many of us have language-learning on our New Year’s reso lists. The University of New England has a suite of short language courses, which start towards the end of summer (23rd February).
You can choose from Italian, French, Japanese, Mandarin and Indonesian, among others, offered at various levels. Enrol by 22nd February.
IELTS
Speaking of languages, if you’re gearing up for the International English Language Testing System (or IELTS), the summer is a great, quiet time to get in some extra prep. Consider this IELTS Online General Training course with Macquarie University (enrol by 30th December for a 1st January start date).
Business and marketing
Feeling entrepreneurial? Summer is a great time to lay the groundwork for that side hustle or finally give your business idea a proper run-up.
Curtin University’s Managerial Effectiveness and Executive Financial Decision Making can help you dial up your confidence with planning, leadership and smart money moves. Enrol by 28th December.
If you’re dreaming bigger, Adelaide University’s Entrepreneurship Foundations and Mindset kicks off 5th January and will help you think like a founder. Meanwhile, Marketing Analytics and Introduction to Social Media will show you how to stop the scroll and build an audience. Enrol by 4th January for a 12th January start.
Arts and humanities
If you’ve been wanting to tap into your creative side, these subjects are an easy way to dive in. Travel Writing helps you shape vivid stories from real places, while Radio and Audio Journalism gives you practical skills to start that podcast you’ve been thinking about (enrol in both by 4th January).
And La Trobe University’s Unsettling Australian Literatures invites you to explore the writers and ideas that have shaped our identity as a nation (enrol by 28th December).
Designing a summer study plan
So, you’re all signed up and ready to get going on your summer course. But, man, it’s nice out. You may need some tips on how to stay focused while your mates are down the beach. Consider the following:
1. Make yourself a timetable
At the beginning of your course, make sure you’re totally across the schedule and any assessment requirements and dates. Work backwards from there and sketch out a weekly timetable that allocates time for study—keeping things realistic and allowing some time for the unexpected to happen.
2. Take lots of breaks
An important one! Make sure you allow time to have fun and enjoy the summer too. Don’t skip out on every beach trip. You’ll feel better in the long run if you can keep things balanced.
3. Stay hydrated and nourished
Look after yourself when you’re studying. This goes for the whole year but, especially in the warm summer months, make sure you’re drinking lots of water and staying healthy. The benefits of this will flow through to your study.
4. Keep accountable
If you need a bit of extra help to stay on track while school’s out, consider telling a friend or family member about your plans. Ask them to check in with you at certain points, so you stay accountable. Maybe you’d even like to ‘body double’ and work alongside someone else who’s also trying to get something done.
Want even more summer courses?
If you’re keen to keep exploring what’s out there, browse all the course categories that are taking summer enrolments now. There are heaps to choose from!
