Start in Semester 1 2026

Yes, you may be able to receive academic credit – also called ‘advanced standing’ – for previous study or relevant work and life experience, helping you complete your course sooner. To be considered, you will need to complete an application form that is relevant to your situation.

Absolutely – you can find stories about our students’ experiences across our website, from placement and internship experiences to studying abroad, international student experiences and alumni success.

Vocational Education (VE)

VE includes pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, traineeships, trades, certificates and diplomas (including TAFE courses).

You might be looking at VE if you want to study a skills-based vocation, such as electronics, plumbing or community services. Maybe you’d like to start with a shorter time commitment before progressing into further study. Perhaps the eligibility criteria caught your eye (in some cases, VE course entry is broader and doesn’t require an ATAR). Alternatively, you may be interested in a quick stop to upskill before returning to the workforce.

UniLink

A UniLink diploma serves as a ‘link’ course between you and undergraduate study. These courses are a great choice if you didn’t complete high school in Australia or didn’t get the ATAR needed for your preferred bachelor degree.

Undergraduate (UG)

UG includes bachelor degrees, double degrees and associate degrees.

Many undergraduate degrees will take 3 years to complete and will result in a bachelor degree. Double degrees are for those who want to study a little longer and graduate with twice the qualifications. Associate degrees will take around 2 years to complete and can either send you off into the world of work or prepare you for further study.

Postgraduate (PG)

PG includes graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, master degrees and doctoral degrees.

In most cases, postgraduate study is for those who have completed undergraduate study. In some instances, those with significant industry experience can enter postgraduate study in lieu of an undergraduate degree.

Completion of master and doctoral degrees will result in a ‘Master of’ or ‘PhD’, respectively. Alternatively, if you complete the required units, you also have the option to exit your master degree study early to earn a graduate diploma or certificate.

Yes, you can. And we’ve found that in most cases, transferring unis or courses is easier than expected.

To begin the process, browse our courses or book an appointment to speak with a course and applications adviser at Swinburne.

Swinburne offers alternative admission routes such as UniLink diplomas, our Foundation Program and Fee-Free UniReady.

For more information, visit our page on pathways to university.

Swinburne has a range of scholarships designed to provide opportunity, promote equity and recognise excellence, and they are available for both commencing and current students.

While some are based on academic merit or community service, other scholarships exist to support students from Indigenous backgrounds, students suffering from financial hardship or those who have relocated from regional areas to study.

To learn more about our scholarships, eligibility and application process, visit our scholarships page.