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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be able to surf?
You do not need to be able to surf to complete this degree.

Which programs am I eligible for after completing this course?
After completing this course you are eligible for postgraduate programs in business, education, science or similar areas. If your course average is high enough, you may be eligible to participate in an honours program, after which you can pursue a Masters or Doctorate by Research.

How much money can I expect to make in my field of study when I graduate?
The annual salary of graduates varies. However research has shown that ECU graduates working in their field of study tend to earn annual salaries between $35,000 and $45,000 per year in their first job after graduation.

Is there a skills shortage in this field of study?
Some of the graduates in the program have pursued careers in the area of Environmental Management. According to the Commonwealth Government (place site here) there is a high demand for Environmental Research Scientists and Environmental and Agricultural Science professionals in general.

How much time will I have to commit as a full time student or as a part time student?
Part time students are expected to commit from 9 to 18 hours of study a week, whereas full time students are recommended to commit from 27 to 36 hours of study a week. This includes the time spent in class and labs.

When are the classes scheduled for this course?
The classes for this course are scheduled around the availability of lecturing staff and facilities. In the past students have had on campus activities compacted into three days per week. Classes are in session 30 weeks per year.

Can I study externally, by correspondence or online?
Most of this course is delivered on campus, however some elective units may be studied by correspondence or online.

If I study externally, by correspondence or online what kind of resources, facilities and support will I have access to?
You will have access to all resources and support an on campus student would have. This includes academic skills workshops, free internet access from home, 24 hour access to the on campus computer labs, student email and web access, Blackboard (Online learning system), access to on-line databases for researching, IT support, counseling, and more.

Can I use the campus facilities, resources and support if I choose to study externally, by correspondence or online?
Yes you can. Studying externally means you will not attend lectures, however you can use all the campus facilities mentioned above. However, on campus lecturing staff will not be available to you as an external student, and you will not be able to attend classes on campus even if on campus classes are offered in your area of study.

Can I take some classes on campus and some classes externally, by correspondence or online?
All Surf Science specific units are on campus only. The campuses are either South West Campus (Bunbury) or the Margaret River Education Campus. However, you may decide to take some units externally for your electives.

What kinds of facilities are available to me on the South West Campus (Bunbury)?
The South West Campus (Bunbury) has a modern library, three computer labs with broadband internet and 24 hour access, internet wireless area coverage, printing facilities, bookshop/cashier, student accommodation, student common room, campus café, and other amenities.

What are the advantages of studying on the South West Campus (Bunbury)?
South West Campus (Bunbury) offers a small classes and a relaxing environment for learning and socialise. The advantages include but are not limited to:

  • More attention from your lectures.
  • Easy to park.
  • Nice and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Staff knows you by your name not by your student number.
  • Reduced number of students.
  • Modern facilities.
  • Close to the beach and the best surf breaks in WA.

Specifically relating to the Surf Science course, advantages are:

  • Classes close to or in Margaret River where we have internationally renowned surf.
  • Lecturing staff who are surfers themselves.
  • A strong regional surf community in Margaret River , Yallingup, Dunsborough and Denmark .
  • A dedicated materials science lab for researching, developing and manufacturing surfboards.
  • On campus student accommodation with a high proportion of surf science students and other surf enthusiasts.
  • Library books with surf related content.

Can I use credits from another university course or TAFE toward my degree?
Yes you can. You may be granted up to 2 units advanced standing depending the TAFE Diploma or university degree course and the age of the units.

How long will I take to complete the program?
You can complete the program in 3 years if you study full time or 6 years if you choose to study part time.

What kind of resources and support does ECU provide to students?
ECU provides academic skills workshops, free internet access from home, 24 hour access to the on campus computer labs, student email and web access, Blackboard (Online learning system), access to on-line databases for researching, IT support, counseling, and more. You will also have access to facilities at all ECU campuses, South West Campus (Bunbury), Churchlands, Mount Lawley and Joondalup.

How much are the fees and other expenses (textbooks, photocopying, lecture guides, materials) for this course?
You should budget around A$150 per unit for textbooks, photocopying, lecture guides, materials.

Will I have exams in this course?
Yes, some units assessment are made on a examination basis while other units may be assessed through assignments.

Will I have practica, work experience or internship requirements in this course?
No.

Who will help me select the right units for my program?
Your course coordinator can help you selecting the units for your program.

What if I want to take a break from studying?
You can defer your studies for up to 12 months. If you take longer then 12 months, your status as a current student will lapse and your will be required to re-apply to gain admission into the program. Generally speaking, students are required to complete their course within 10 years.

I wish to come to Australia to study from overseas, how can I apply for this program?
International Students can find detailed information on how to apply on the following webpage http://www.ecu.edu.au/iso/content/applications/index.php . If you need assistance please contact International Students Office iso@ecu.edu.au .

I have qualifications from overseas, are they recognised in Australia?
If they are equivalent to a similar qualification in Australia they are likely to be recognised. However, we recommend that you have your qualifications evaluated by our International Students' Office.

Will my course be recognised internationally?
ECU degrees are recognised internationally.

What's a mature age student and when does your age matter at university?
To be considered a Mature Age Student you must be 20 years or over before 1 March for entry into first semester or 1 August if commencing second semester of the year in which you intend to study.

Age is only an issue when meeting entry requirements for Australian students. If you are over 20, you can take the STAT test or mature age TEE to meet entry.

How can I find out more about scholarship, FEE-HELP and HECS-HELP?
You can find information regarding scholarship accessing the link http://www.ecu.edu.au/student/fees/Scholarships/ . If you want to learn more about FEE-HELP and HECS-HELP log on to http://www.goingtouni.gov.au/ .

I am a permanent resident but not an Australian citizen, am I entitled to Commonwealth Government support?
Commonwealth Government support is only available to Australian Citizens. However, if you are a permanent resident there are certain exceptions that might apply to you. Learn more about eligibility for permanent residents on this page http://www.goingtouni.gov.au/

Can I claim tax deductions for fees I will pay?
If your course is related to your current business you might be entitle to claim tax deductions. We suggest you to contact your Tax Advisor or the Australian Tax Office ( www.ato.gov.au ) for more information.

When can I apply for this course?
Please contact us for the next intake.

What was the minimum TER for this course?
The minimum TER for admission in 2007 was 55.

What kind of social and recreational activities can I look forward to as an ECU South West Campus student?
ECU South West provides a range of social and recreational activities during the year. Below is a list of events that ECU South West organises:

  • SST Surf Challenge (run by Surf Science Students)
  • Free BBQs and other events form the Student Guild;
  • Public Lectures;
  • And more

Is this course offered in any other state of Australia?
This course is only offered at Edith Cowan University South West Campus (Bunbury) and the University of Plymouth in the UK.

Can I transfer from University of Plymouth?
Yes you can, please keep in mind that some unit transferal restrictions may apply.

Where can I learn more about this course and who should I contact?
You can find detailed information about this course on http://southwest.ecu.edu.au/surf/ .

ECU South West Campus (Bunbury) admissions team are available to help you in your application through the email southwest@ecu.edu.au or by phone (61 8) 9780 7777.

 
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