Frequently asked questions

• "I have already completed my professional training as a therapist/psychologist/nurse/social worker. Why do I need to do a course in developmental disability?"
• "I've been working in the developmental disability field for 10 years. Isn’t this course just for people who are new to the area?"
• "I work with people with cerebral palsy/autism. Will this course be relevant to my needs and interests?"
• "Can I get credit for units of study completed in other tertiary programs?"
• "Is the program fee-paying?"
• "Are all units of study available only by distance education?"
• "Can I automatically transfer from the Graduate Certificate to the master's level?"
• "Can I take only one unit now and think about enrolling in the program later?"
• "How do I know if I have what it takes to be successful at postgraduate distance learning?"

"I have already completed my professional training as a therapist/psychologist/nurse/social worker. Why do I need to do a course in developmental disability?"

To specifically study areas in developmental disability only briefly touched on in professional training.

"I've been working in the developmental disability field for 10 years. Isn’t this course just for people who are new to the area?"

No, the course offers the opportunity for experienced professionals to gain a competitive edge in this rapidly growing area of practice.

"I work with people with cerebral palsy/autism. Will this course be relevant to my needs and interests?"

Yes, the course assumes a broad perspective on developmental disability.

"Can I get credit for units of study completed in other tertiary programs?"

There is no credit transfer for the core unit. Credit transfer will be considered for up to 50 per cent of the units of study in the Developmental Disability stream or electives.

"Is the program fee-paying?"

Courses are offered on a full-fee basis. Prospective students should enquire about PELS, the interest-free loans facility for postgraduate students. The scheme is similar to the deferred payment arrangements available under the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS). For further information, phone 1800 020 108 or visit Going to Uni or the Student contact and enquiry form.

"Are all units of study available only by distance education?"

All units with a GSDD prefix in their unit code are available only by distance education. For delivery modes of units with other prefixes, students are advised to refer to the Faculty Handbook.

"Can I automatically transfer from the Graduate Certificate to the master's level?"

No, students need to consult the Program Coordinator to discuss the transfer option.

"Can I take only one unit now and think about enrolling in the program later?"

Yes, this is called non-award enrolment. Visit the faculty website for details about how to do this.

"How do I know if I have what it takes to be successful at postgraduate distance learning?"

Visit the Get Real website to assess your readiness for postgraduate study in distance and online mode.