Ralph Brown
Student advisor specialising in qualification advice
Ralph is a highly experienced student advisor at Open Universities Australia, supporting students through every stage of their study journey from early decision-making to graduation. In his 9 years working at Open Universities Australia, he’s helped thousands of students across all study areas and study levels to take their next step with confidence.
Drawing on his ever-expanding knowledge of course information and administration processes, Ralph gives straightforward, useful and no-pressure advice.
Most days, you’ll find him on live chat, where he’s answering questions coming in via the website, text, WhatsApp, Facebook and more.
Ralph would love to talk to you about:
- Preparing to begin your studies
- Succeeding as a student
Ralph reveals how he found his own path through study
What did you study at university?
I was lucky enough to complete my higher education while still at high school. While doing my VCE, I also studied Certificates III and IV and a Diploma in Music Industry. I was part of a special program at my school in regional Victoria thanks to our incredible music department and teacher who gave students at the time a chance to have this opportunity. It was something I never thought I could do while also completing my HSC!
What led you to start working for Open Universities Australia?
After finishing high school, I worked in a couple of different jobs in sales and in the higher education sector while dabbling in music on the side. My friend who was already a student advisor at Open Universities Australia referred me to the role.
When I heard about the opportunity to partner and work with Australia’s leading universities in the one place, it felt like the right next step. It’s crazy to think of how many years I’ve now been enjoying helping people with pathways, goals and further development in all walks of life!
What's your favourite part about helping students?
The best thing is hearing the stories and development of personal growth – seeing students progress through their studies, organising and assisting them with their ambitions and ultimately getting them over the finish-line to graduation and achieving their goals.
From being there to assist with that very first step, to helping a returning student enrol in their final subject, it’s rewarding to see their growth and determination!
What’s one thing you want students to know before they decide to study through Open Universities Australia?
Every person and their situation is unique, but what I always suggest is to keep an open mind. There’s always a backup plan or a pathway you can take. We can suggest options you could pursue, but you don’t have to go through with our ideas.
Higher education isn’t always for everyone in every moment – there’s no pressure and no rush. Look into the cost, duration, what topics a course covers, what the university itself offers. Keep an open mind and take your time. We’re here when you need us.
Blogs by Ralph Brown
TAFE vs uni: which one should I choose?
Choosing between TAFE and university depends on your career goals, learning style and timeline. This guide compares both pathways side by side, including how TAFE can lead into university.
Diploma vs degree: what's the difference and which is right for you?
Diplomas and bachelor degrees differ in level, length, cost and where they can take you. Understand how these two study options compare, and work out which one fits your goal.
What is a masters degree?
A masters degree is a postgraduate qualification that builds advanced, specialised knowledge in a chosen field. This guide explains how masters degrees work, what the different titles mean and how to compare your options.
What is a bachelor degree?
A bachelor degree is an undergraduate qualification offered by universities usually at AQF Level 7 on the Australian Qualifications Framework. Whether you're starting out or returning to study later in life, here's how bachelor degrees work and how to comp
What is single subject study?
Did you know you can take a single university subject without committing to the whole qualification? It’s a great way to upskill, or to give your preferred degree a test run.
Australian university qualifications explained
In Australia, university qualifications range from certificates to doctorates, each sitting at a different level of the Australian Qualifications Framework. This guide explains those levels of study, so you can figure out where you might like to start.
What is an honours degree?
An honours degree adds a year of independent, research-focused study to a bachelor degree, either as a built-in final year or a separate year afterwards. Here is what it involves and where it leads.
What is an associate degree?
An associate degree is a two-year university qualification, and one of the more accessible ways into higher education. Here’s what it involves, how to get into one and where it can take you.