Handbook

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Admissions and enrolment process

Campus Student Administration Centres

Students should refer administrative queries to the following:

Albury-Wodonga Campus

• Student Administration Office on the ground floor of Building 4, University Drive, Wodonga.
• The Office is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm and Thursdays from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm.

Bendigo Campus

• Student Administration, Administration Precinct, Edwards Road, Flora Hill.
• The office is open 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus

• Student Centre, Level 2, David Myers Building, Bundoora.
• The office is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, 8.45 am to 5.00 pm and Wednesdays, 8.45 am to 4.00 pm

Melbourne (City) Campus

• Campus Administration Office, 215 Franklin Street, Melbourne.
• The Office is open during teaching periods: Monday to Thursday, 8.30 am and 9.00 pm Friday, 8.30 am to 6.00 pm. The Office hours at other times: Monday to Friday, 8.30 am and 6.00 pm

Mildura Campus

• Campus Administration Office, Benetook Avenue, Mildura.
• The office is open Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

Shepparton Campus

• Campus Administration, 127 Welsford Street, Shepparton.
• The office is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm; Tuesday, 9.00 am to 6.00 pm; Friday, 9.00 am to 4.00 pm

Important dates

2008 standard teaching periods

2008 research teaching periods

2008 non-standard teaching periods

The University also delivers a number of non-standard teaching periods through third-party providers or to meet special course requirements. The University publishes a comprehensive list of all teaching periods and associated Unit Census Dates on the University’s website at: www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/fees/newsis_census_2008.php

Non-standard teaching periods appear in the form Wxx–yy, for example W12-22. These indicate the whole weeks of the teaching period, from the first Monday to the last Sunday. For example: W12-22 has a teaching period that begins on the twelfth whole week in 2008 (Monday 24 March) and finishes on the twenty-second whole week in 2008 (Sunday 8 June).

2008 official vacation dates

2008 official examination/assessment dates

2008 official study breaks

2008 public holidays

The University will close for the Christmas/New Year break at 5.00 pm on Friday 21 December 2007 and will re-open on Wednesday 2 January 2008.

The University is also closed on:

The University remains open on Labour Day (12 March 2008), Melbourne Cup Day (4 November 2008) and the former Show Day.

Admissions

Undergraduate admission requirements

Admission to courses in the University is competitive, with selection based on a combination of academic merit and a selection committee’s assessment of an applicant’s ability to complete a course. Applicants must meet both the University’s basic admission requirements and any additional requirements of Faculties for the course to which they seek admission.

Applicants for award courses at La Trobe University must normally be at least 16 years of age by 31 December in the preceding year to be eligible for admission. Applicants who do not meet this requirement should make a case for admission, which will be considered by the appropriate faculty dean on an individual basis.

In the main, applicants apply through VTAC for undergraduate courses and postgraduate education courses. Applicants for selected courses at Albury-Wodonga and Mildura campuses may apply through the New South Wales University Admissions Centre (UAC). Direct applications may be made to the University for mid-year entry, postgraduate courses and after VTAC and UAC closing dates.

International students should also refer to information in the ‘International students’ chapter in this Handbook.

Normal requirements for admission

The University’s minimum requirements for admission are met by any student who has:

• 1 satisfactorily completed the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Units 3 and 4 English (any). Any of the four VCE English subjects – English, Literature, English Language or English as a Second Language – these units must be completed in sequence and in the same calendar year; or
• 2 gained qualifications equivalent to (1) above recognised as such by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). This covers interstate, International Baccalaureate and overseas qualifications and qualifications obtained under previous conditions, including compensation or concessional arrangements; or
• 3 gained a Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Statement of Equivalent Qualification to the VCE; or
• 4 fulfilled the requirements of one of the University’s alternative entry schemes.

In exceptional cases, the dean of a faculty may admit a Year 12 applicant who has not satisfied normal University entrance requirements. In such cases, the applicant must have satisfied course subject prerequisites and have achieved a level of performance which, as part of a complete certificate, would clearly merit selection into the course.

While normal requirements for admission are as listed above, most courses require a study score of at least 20 in Units 3 & 4 of English (any). All students are expected to have an adequate command of the English language in order to pursue their chosen course.

Any person offered a place at La Trobe University in 2008 may be required to sit an English language test. An applicant found to be below the necessary standard may be required to undertake a remedial English language course conducted by the University concurrently with his or her undergraduate course or may have his or her provisional offer withdrawn.

Applicants whose principal language of instruction was other than English must provide evidence of their proficiency in English. This can be done by achieving a satisfactory result in VCE English (any) or in an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or another test acceptable to the University. For further information telephone the International Programs Office on (03) 9479 1199.

VTAC and UAC applicants with IELTS or other test results should supply them directly to their relevant admission centre with their application. Other applicants should provide their results directly to the course selection officer(s). Applications may not be considered until results have been provided.

Additional requirements for admission to the courses offered by a given faculty are listed in that faculty’s section in this Handbook.

Complete details regarding requirements for admission, including course prerequisites and application procedures are available in the VTAC Guide 2008 – A Guide to University and TAFE Courses and in the VICTER 2008 – Victorian Tertiary Entrance Requirements.

Special entry access schemes

The University offers several special entry schemes, details of which are provided below. All schemes require application through VTAC’s Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS), and may require applicants to submit supplementary information directly to the University. The supplementary information required may include:

• completion of a personal particulars form
• an autobiographical essay
• mathematics test (relevant to the course applied for)
• an aptitude test, e.g., Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
• an interview.

Information regarding the eligibility criteria and application process for La Trobe University’s equity and access schemes are provided in the institutional information contained in the Special Entry Schemes (SEAS) booklet available from VTAC www.vtac.edu.au.

Indigenous Australians

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people are encouraged to apply for entry to La Trobe University and will be considered on an individual basis. All applicants, including VCE students and non-VCE applicants, must apply through VTAC and complete the appropriate section of the VTAC SEAS-Access and Equity application form with relevant supporting evidence and statements. Applicants may be asked to attend an interview with a panel including the Aboriginal Liaison Officer, and may also be asked to provide some written information. For assistance with your application, contact the Ngarn-gi Bagora Indigenous Centre (Melbourne (Bundoora) campus) or the Aboriginal Liaison Officer at the campus to which you are applying for entry.

Mature aged entry (non-year-12 applicants)

Applicants aged 21 years or more at 1 January 2008 who have not completed a semester of tertiary level studies (including post-Year 12 TAFE qualifications) in the last two years may be eligible for entry into the University via the University’s Mature Age Entry Scheme. Applicants should apply through VTAC and complete the appropriate section of the VTAC SEAS-Access and Equity application form with relevant supporting evidence and statements. Depending on the course(s) applied for, applicants under this category may also be required to submit an autobiographical essay, undertake a STAT Multiple Choice, STAT Written English and/or sit a mathematics test.

Disadvantaged groups

Applicants who feel that a significant part of their preparation for tertiary study has been adversely affected by one or more of the following factors may apply for special consideration:

• non-English speaking background
• difficult family circumstances
• disadvantaged socio-economic background
• rural or isolated applicants
• applicants from under-represented schools
• disability or long-term medical condition

Applicants should apply through VTAC and complete the appropriate section(s) of the VTAC SEAS-Access and Equity application form with relevant supporting evidence and statements.

Year 12 special consideration scheme

This application is aimed at assisting those current year 12 students who have experienced circumstances that can be demonstrated to have had an adverse impact on the final year of their secondary school performance. La Trobe University will take into account the information provided on the VTAC Year 12 Special Consideration application form when ranking current Year 12 applicants for 2008 selection, provided the application meets the criteria for a SEAS-Year 12 Special Consideration application and appropriate supporting statements are provided. Information regarding the eligibility criteria and application process for this scheme is provided in the Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS) booklet, available from the VTAC website at www.vtac.edu.au. For information specific to La Trobe, go to www.latrobe.edu.au/access/

Regional consideration

In pursuing its regional mission, the University may adjust upwards the aggregate points of applicants from regional schools. Details of the regional school bonus applied to specific course codes can be found at www.latrobe.edu.au/vtacinfoaccess/

Admission procedures

All prospective domestic students seeking entrance to any degree or diploma course for full-time or part-time studies at first-year level must apply through VTAC by 5.00 pm on 29 September 2007. Late applications will be accepted by VTAC until 5.00 pm on 10 November 2007, subject to the payment of the prescribed late fee. Very late applications will be accepted by VTAC until 5.00 pm on 8 December 2007, subject to the payment of the prescribed very late fee.

Offers of admission

The normal VTAC procedure detailed in the VTAC Guide 2008 provides for undergraduate applicants to be offered places as follows:

Students are notified of offers officially by post. Prospective students applying directly to the University would normally expect to receive offers within this timeframe.

Advanced Entry

Current or previous university or TAFE students may be eligible for advanced entry to La Trobe University courses and should apply as follows:

Albury-Wodonga, Melbourne (Bundoora), Mildura, and Shepparton campuses

Directly to the Selection Officer of the intended course if a current La Trobe University student, or through VTAC or UAC (selected courses) if not a current La Trobe University student.

Bendigo campus

Directly to the Selection Officer of the intended course if a current La Trobe University or Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE student. All other Bendigo applicants should apply through VTAC.

Graduate Diploma in Education

All applicants (other than international applicants) for the Graduate Diploma in Education must apply through VTAC.

Enrolment and re-enrolment

Enrolment for 2008

New undergraduate and postgraduate domestic students who apply through VTAC or UAC will be sent a copy of the La Trobe University Enrolment Guide 2008 after they receive an offer. New undergraduate and postgraduate domestic students who successfully apply directly to the University will be contacted by the relevant faculty by way of a letter of offer. New international undergraduate or postgraduate coursework or postgraduate research students who successfully apply directly to the University via the International Programs Office will be contacted by that Office by way of a letter of offer. Enquiries from domestic students regarding research and higher degree studies should be made directly to the Research and Graduate Studies Office. For further information email rgs@latrobe.edu.au

Advanced standing

Students who have studied at tertiary level elsewhere, or who have relevant studies or work experience, may be eligible for some credit towards a La Trobe University qualification. Each faculty has different policies in respect to the number and type of units and any work experience it is willing to accept for credit purposes. Students should apply for credit after they have been offered a place and at the time of enrolment.

Applicants who have completed a TAFE course may be eligible to apply for entry into related degree courses with a significant level of credit through the La Trobe – TAFE Pathways Program. For example, students who have satisfactorily completed the Diploma of Hospitality Management may be granted up to eight units of credit when enrolling in the Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Hospitality).

For applicants with partial university studies, completion of individual units can lead to credit(s), determined on an individual basis, which takes into account the units already completed and those required in the La Trobe University course. Credit arrangements are dependent on the specific studies already completed and the La Trobe University course in which the student enrols. Further information is available from the relevant La Trobe University faculty or Course Adviser. Advanced Standing must be completed by the relevant unit census dates. This includes the removal of units for which your faculty has granted Advanced Standing. International students holding a student visa are reminded that Condition 8202 relates to a student visa holder’s enrolment attendance and academic progress. Therefore, students are required to be enrolled on a full time basis at all times, except during the final term or semester of their course. This includes instances where an international student receives Advanced Standing for previous studies. Note that international students may not enrol in less than 75% of a full time load.

To access La Trobe University’s Advanced Standing Policy go to www.latrobe.edu.au/policies/assets/downloads/credit_standing.pdf

Re-enrolment for 2009 (continuing students)

Students who have been enrolled in, but have not completed, a course in the preceding year need not apply for re-admission, but must comply with current University re-enrolment procedures.

Undergraduate degree, postgraduate graduate diploma, Masters preliminary and Masters by coursework students normally pre-enrol from October 2008 onwards via a web-based service called Student Online unless advised otherwise by the faculty of enrolment. Research and higher degree students are not normally required to re-enrol annually as their enrolment is continuous unless advised otherwise by the faculty of enrolment or the Research and Graduate Studies Office.

Continuing (returning) students who fail to submit an enrolment plan by the due date set by the faculty of enrolment may not be guaranteed a place in the course in 2009 as their course enrolment may lapse. Failure to re-enrol by the date specified in your re-enrolment information may result in the imposition of a late re-enrolment fee of $110.00.

Enrolment variations – addition and deletion of units

Any change to the status of a unit attempt is normally made via application on the ‘Variation of Enrolment’ form to a faculty office or local Student Administration Office for domestic campuses. This includes variation of enrolment, advanced standing (see Admissions section above) and enrolment in cross-institution units. In most faculties, students are able to vary unit attempts using the web-based enrolment variation facility, Student Online, which can be accessed from the University’s website at

www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/studentonline.html

In the first instance all enquiries concerning variation of unit attempts should be directed to a faculty office or local Student Administration Office for small or domestic campuses.

Addition of a unit

Each faculty annually sets deadlines for variations to enrolment that may involve the addition of a unit after the commencement of the teaching period, but prior to the Unit Census Date. Enquiries regarding these important dates should be directed to the faculty office or local Student Administration Office for small or domestic campuses. Addition of any units after the Unit Census Date will be treated as full fee-paying units. Students will not automatically be entitled to HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP for those units as the enrolment responsibilities have not been met.

Deletion of a unit

All changes to enrolments involving the deletion of a unit should normally be made prior to the Unit Census Date for a given teaching period. Discontinuation of a unit attempt after the Unit Census Date in most cases will lead to the unit attempt remaining on the student’s academic record. Fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability will remain if discontinuation of a unit attempt is after Unit Census Date in the given teaching period.

Subject to course and unit rules and conditions, the final decision on any change to an enrolment is that of a local student, with the exception of adding units after the teaching period has commenced. Any decision should be made in consultation with an adviser of studies within your faculty of enrolment.

Note that international students need the permission of their faculty to underload (enrol in less than a full-time load). This is because international students are required to complete their course in the time as stated on their electronic-Confirmation of Enrolment.

Important dates for the discontinuation of a unit in the Official 2008 Standard Teaching Periods

Unit Census Date

This is the date from which Fees, HECS-HELP (HECS), or FEE-HELP liability remains payable for a given unit enrolment in a given teaching period.

Detailed information regarding the University’s Unit Census Dates for 2008 will be available at the University’s website

www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/censusdates.html from October 2007.

Application of K Grades after the discontinuation of a unit

Discontinuation of a unit, after the completion of one-third of the teaching period in which the unit is offered (or the Unit Census Date), but prior to the completion of two-thirds of the teaching period in which the unit was offered, results in a K grade being awarded (withdrawal, not counted as a failure).

Discontinuation of a unit, after completion of two-thirds of the teaching period in which the unit is offered, but prior to the end of that teaching period, results in a KN grade being awarded (withdrawal to count as a failure).

Students cannot discontinue a unit enrolment once the teaching period in which it was offered has ended.

Students must check their enrolment carefully prior to Unit Census Dates. This can be achieved using the web-based enrolment facility, Student Online, which can be accessed via the University’s website at www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/censusdates.html Problems regarding incorrect unit enrolments should be brought to the attention of the relevant faculty office or local Student Administration Office for a small or domestic campuses immediately.

Cross-institution unit enrolment for La Trobe students at another institution

Students who wish to study one or more unit(s) with another higher education provider within Australia, which will be credited toward their degree at La Trobe University, must complete an ‘Application for Cross-Institution Enrolment’ form.

Requests must be approved by the faculty of enrolment in conjunction with the host provider and then lodged with the local Student Administration Office.

Responsibility for enrolment at the host provider rests entirely with the student. A cross-institutional (Out) student may incur a fee, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability at the host provider for the extra unit(s) and appropriate arrangements should be made with that institution.

Cross-institution unit enrolment at La Trobe University for students from another institution

Students from another higher education provider within Australia, who wish to study at La Trobe University, must provide written approval from their home institution. The relevant faculty of enrolment must also approve any request and the student must ensure that they are properly enrolled by the appropriate Unit Census Date. A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is not guaranteed unless the enrolment at La Trobe University is a compulsory component of a CSP funded course from the student’s home institution.

A cross-institutional (In) student may incur a fee, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability at La Trobe University for the extra unit(s) and appropriate arrangements should be made the University.

Variation of course attempt (enrolment)

Any changes to the status of your course enrolment must be made via application to a faculty office or local Student Administration Office for a small or domestic campuses. This includes deferral, intermission, transfer and discontinuation of course, and underloading in the case of International Students.

Deferral, intermission, transfer and withdrawal of enrolment

Deferral of enrolment (prior to commencement of course)

Deferment may be granted in most undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Most applications for deferment in undergraduate courses are approved and the process that must be followed is outlined in the La Trobe University Enrolment Guide 2008.

In the first instance all enquiries concerning the deferment of a postgraduate course should be directed to the faculty office or local Student Administration Office for domestic campuses. It is not normally necessary to attend the University in person to seek deferment. Written applications should be made directly to the Selection Officer for the course at the relevant campus, by the date specified for accepting the offer.

Enquiries involving possible deferment of research and higher degree studies should be taken directly to the Research and Graduate Studies Office.

Commencing students cannot defer studies once they have incurred any fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability (see Intermission of Course Attempt).

Students who fail to notify the University that they will be taking up a deferment, by the due date set by the faculty of enrolment, may forfeit that place in 2009.

Note that International Students need to request in writing to the International Programs Office that their place be deferred.

Intermission of enrolment (post commencement of course)

Intermission may be granted in all undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and faculties set policies regarding the administration of this process. In the first instance all enquiries concerning the intermission of an undergraduate or postgraduate course should be directed to a faculty office or local Student Administration Office for domestic campuses. It is not normally necessary to attend the University in person to seek intermission of course attempt. Written applications using the ‘Application for Intermission of Studies’ form should be submitted directly to the Course Coordinator/Adviser of Studies from the faculty responsible for the administration of the course or local Student Administration Office for domestic campuses. Students will be notified in writing on the success of their application, clearly outlining the approved period of intermission.

Enquiries involving possible suspension of research and higher degree studies should be made directly to the Research and Graduate Studies Office.

Students cannot intermit their course enrolment to avoid the requirement to ‘Show Cause’ for unsatisfactory academic progress in a given academic year.

Fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability is dependant upon the date on which the student received approval from the faculty to intermit their course.

Students who fail to notify the University that they will be returning from intermission by the due date set by the faculty of enrolment may forfeit that place in 2009, as their course attempt will lapse. International students are only permitted to intermit their course where compassionate and compelling circumstances exist. As such they need to first bring documentation to the International Programs Office together with their application for Intermission of Studies. International Students holding a student visa should note that Intermission of Studies for greater than 6 months usually results in cancellation of their student visa. Within 28 days of the approved date of Intermission, a student is required to either leave the country or apply for another visa.

Transfer of course

Transfers from one course to another within the University may be considered on an individual basis. This includes transfers (articulations) from one postgraduate course to another where the initial course of enrolment contains another component or ‘embedded’ course.

An ‘Application to Transfer Course’ form must be completed and submitted to the appropriate faculty of enrolment to which you wish to transfer. Contact faculties for submission deadline dates. Applications for the transfer of a course received after the deadline date for submission, as set by the faculty or school of enrolment may not be considered for teaching periods commencing in 2009. Students pending approval to transfer must re-enrol in their current course. If approved, students will be notified by their faculty office. Note that the University is obliged to inform the Department of Immigration and Citizenship if an international student transfers their course. The International Programs Office will issue a further electronic Confirmation of Enrolment for the new course, and cancel the old one.

Enquiries involving the possible upgrade or downgrade of research and higher degree studies should be made directly to the Research and Graduate Studies Office.

Discontinuation of enrolment (withdrawal)

Undergraduate and postgraduate domestic students can discontinue their course enrolment by completing a ‘Discontinuation of Enrolment’ form and submitting it to the faculty of enrolment or local Student Administration Office.

Enquiries involving possible discontinuation of research and higher degree studies should be made directly to the Research and Graduate Studies Office.

Students contemplating discontinuation of enrolment are strongly encouraged to discuss this with a Course Adviser and consult with counselling services, or the International Student Support Services staff at the International Programs Office. Students cannot discontinue their enrolment to avoid the requirement to ‘Show Cause’ for unsatisfactory academic progress in a given academic year.

Once an International Student’s Discontinuation of Studies has been approved, they have twenty-eight days to either leave the country, or apply for another visa with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

All changes to enrolments involving the discontinuation of a unit should normally be made prior to the Unit Census Date for a given teaching period. Discontinuation of a unit after the Unit Census Date, but before the end of the teaching period may remain on the student’s academic record. Fees, HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP liability will remain depending on the Unit Census Date for the effected units in the given teaching period.

Important dates for the deletion of a unit for the Official 2008 semester and term dates are located at www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/importantdates

In accordance with administrative requirements of the Higher Education Support Act (2003) students must be informed, and give consent, to any overpayment in enrolment fees being used as credit against current and future liabilities with the University.

Credits or overpayments to enrolment fees usually arise from variations to enrolment, discontinuation of course enrolments and intermission of studies. These credits are not automatically refunded. Students must apply via an ‘Application for Refund’ form.

www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/fees.html#refunds

Should your enrolment be varied, intermitted or discontinued resulting in an overpayment of enrolment fees, you will be given an opportunity to nominate whether you wish to have the monies credited against current and future liabilities with the University.

Current and future liabilities are defined as monies outstanding to the University which may arise from library loans or fines, non payment of financial assistance loans, monies owing to commercial areas of the University such as (but not limited to) accommodation or child care services, or student contribution fees.

Types of degrees available

Double degrees and concurrent enrolments

The University offers a range of double-degree programs, which allow students to receive two three-year degrees after four years of study. Details can be found in the faculty sections of this Handbook.

A concurrent enrolment is a simultaneous enrolment in two courses, which can normally be completed in less time than if they were taken separately. Thus, combinations of degrees can be taken for which there is no formal double-degree program. These are also referred to as combined degrees. Rules, guidelines and further information regarding this type of program can be provided at the relevant faculty office or local Student Administration Office at domestic campuses. Students require faculty permission to enrol concurrently in two single awards.

Honours year studies

An Honours degree is the normal prerequisite for entry to higher degree studies – Masters and doctoral courses. It is usually awarded as a first class, second class (upper division), second class (lower division) or third class degree.

You can obtain an Honours degree by taking a fourth year of study after completion of a three-year bachelor course, normally with a B-grade average or better. Entry to a fourth-year honours program is commonly by invitation only from the faculty of enrolment.

The course content is usually a combination of coursework and minor thesis. In some cases a quota may apply to the number of candidates accepted.

Some schools offer joint honours programs which combine two disciplines. In many four-year bachelor courses it is possible to obtain an Honours degree by achieving particularly good marks throughout the course or by choosing an honours stream. Failure to complete an honours program successfully does not jeopardise a student’s entitlement to the pass degree. Normally fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP student liability status will remain the same as the linking undergraduate bachelor course.

Higher degree studies

This information comprises only a brief introduction to the options available after completing a pass degree. More detailed information is available from school and faculty offices, your local Student Administration Office, the Research and Graduate Studies Office (RGSO), and the faculty sections of this Handbook. Information about financial assistance for higher degree studies can be found in the ‘Fees, scholarships and financial matters’ section of this chapter.

Masters preliminary or postgraduate diploma studies

Students who do not have an Honours degree and who aspire to higher degree study may be permitted to undertake Masters preliminary study, a non-award program that is generally equivalent to an honours year. Successful completion will normally qualify a student for entry to a Masters program. Some schools do not offer a Masters preliminary program – in those (and some other) schools, completion of a postgraduate diploma may qualify a student for entry to a higher degree program.

Higher degree studies (Masters and doctoral degrees)

Higher degree courses available at La Trobe include Masters by Coursework, Masters by Research, Doctor of Philosophy (the PhD) and Professional Doctorates. All students interested in pursuing higher degree studies by research should make enquiries directly to the postgraduate coordinator in the relevant faculty/school.

Please contact the following:

• Faculty of Education
• Email: t.d’argenio-smith@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 3918
• Fax: (03) 9479 3070

• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Email: Health@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 3583
• Fax: (03) 9479 2507

• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Email: LHUSS@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 2023
• Fax: (03) 9479 1700

• Faculty of Law and Management
• Email: mrinali.clarke@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 1603

• Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering
• Email: p.jones@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 3588
• Fax (03) 9479 3030

Applications for candidature without scholarship may be submitted at any time.

International students should see this International applications brochure (PDF) for how to apply.

The closing dates for the two main scholarships are:

For more information contact:

• Research and Graduate Studies Office
• Level 2, David Myers Building
• Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
• Tel: (03) 9479 1580 or (03) 9479 2971
• Email: rgs@latrobe.edu.au

Student identification and contact details; privacy of information

Student status

A student remains a student only until the start of the next consecutive teaching period providing that they have formally re-enrolled. For example, a student who has only a Semester 1 2008 enrolment will cease to be a student on the commencement of Semester 2 2008. Students enrolled in both semesters will continue to be a student until the commencement of the next consecutive teaching period. At this time the student’s enrolment status lapses if they are not formally enrolled.

Student status for Centrelink purposes may differ and it is recommended that students seek advice from Centrelink.

Name changes

Students must notify the University immediately of any name changes. Official documentary evidence (e.g., marriage certificate, passport, birth certificate) is required before a change of name will be amended on the University’s student information system. For the purposes of conferring an award, a student cannot change his or her name after the award has been conferred. (Please note: this is currently under review.)

Privacy of student information

La Trobe University respects the privacy of your personal information. Personal information about you is collected and handled by the University to ensure your entitlements and obligations at La Trobe University are established and appropriately managed. Personal information we collect from you can be accessed from your local Student Administration Office in accordance with applicable laws. Further information regarding information privacy at La Trobe University is available at:

www.latrobe.edu.au/privacy

Use of email for communication with students

Under University policy, La Trobe’s normal medium for official communication with students is email to and from official University accounts. Communications about day-to-day student administrative matters will be sent by email only, to the email addresses allocated to the students by the University. Communications about matters of critical importance, such as the outcomes of ‘show cause’ hearings, will be sent both by email and by postal mail. All students should note that:

communication sent to the official La Trobe student email account is deemed to have been delivered to the student;

students are responsible for checking their University email account frequently, and generally no less than twice weekly; and

the University normally does not enter into email communication with students who contact the University from an email address other than their official La Trobe address, as it is impossible to authenticate the sender’s identity.

Students who believe that this policy may disadvantage them on equity or access grounds may submit a case for alternative arrangements. For more information, contact the Policy Unit in the Academic Services Division academic_policy@latrobe.edu.au.

Student contact details

Students must notify the University immediately of any changes to their local and/or overseas postal address. In certain circumstances, official University communications are forwarded to a student’s local and/or overseas postal mailing addresses as recorded on the enrolment form, or as subsequently amended throughout the duration of their studies. Changes to an address can be made by a student using Student Online or by the ‘Amendment to Personal Details’ form available from your local Student Administration Office. It is University policy that any official communication directed to the last known local postal address of a student is deemed to have been delivered to the student. International students should note that it is a condition of their student visa that they inform the University of any change of address within seven days.

Student identity cards

La Trobe Cards are issued to students at the time of their first enrolment and need to be updated each year on re-enrolment (subject to change in 2008). La Trobe ID cards are issued to students at Bundoora and Bendigo campuses on the day of enrolment. Students from Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton will have their cards issued after their enrolment has been processed.

The La Trobe ID card is used for:

• identification
• library borrowing
• photocopying and network printing
• building access.

If your ID card is damaged you can purchase a replacement card for $20.00 from the Card Centre (or in the case of regional campuses, your Student Administration Office).

If your ID card is lost or stolen you must report it immediately to the Card Centre on (03) 9479-1349. The Card Centre is located in the Student Administration Office, Level 2, David Myers Building, and Bundoora Campus. If you are located at a regional campus, you can advise your local Student Administration Office. It is also suggested that you report any card loss/theft to the Library immediately, to avoid any fraudulent book borrowing.

A replacement card will be issued to you at a cost of $20.00. If your card was stolen and you can present a police stolen property report, a replacement card will be issued free of charge.

Students should carry their La Trobe ID card at all times while on campus. Students may be requested to produce their card as proof of identity by an identified officer of the University. Student cards are required as proof of identity at all examinations and Student Administration Offices.

Cards are issued to students as proof of identification. Cards must be returned to the Card Centre should your enrolment at the University cease. The University reserves the right to cancel cards and remove access to facilities when enrolment ceases.

The University adopts the Australian Government Passport photo guidelines with regard to ID card photo standards. If a student is unable to comply with these guidelines due to religious or cultural practices, particularly regarding the wearing of a burkah or other such garment, students will be provided with a secondary proof of ID card. This card will include a specimen signature, which will be used as further proof of id, especially under examination conditions. Students will be required to provide both forms of ID while on campus and during examinations.

Student Online

The University provides an interactive website for students – Student Online -.which enables students to check their enrolment, re-enrol, vary enrolment, change postal addresses, check results and course completion, view and print an unofficial transcript, pay fees and access other student services. A username and password is required by the student to access the site and students are required to change the password when accessing the service for the first time.

Passwords and usernames are printed on the first Statement of Account which is issued following a student’s commencing enrolment (subject to change in 2008). The reissuing of a new password may incur a $10.00 replacement fee.

University charges for 2008

The following charges applied at the time of printing of this Handbook:

For an explanation of the above charges, contact your local Student Administration Office.

Complaints about charges

If staff or students are concerned that, in individual cases, charges may constitute violations of the Higher Education Support Act, the matter should at first be taken up with La Trobe University and then Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) if unresolved. It is the responsibility of the University to ensure that its charges are consistent with this advice and the Act. Staff or students should go to the University website to access a Customer Service Feedback Form at www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/office.html

Tuition fees

Single unit fees

La Trobe University offers single unit (non-award) studies for fees to domestic and international students.

For all teaching periods, single unit fees are due and payable on the date specified on the University’s Statement of Account. A student must not have incurred any tuition fee liability (remained enrolled past the Unit Census Date) to be entitled to a full refund of a specific single unit fee.

Undergraduate domestic fees

La Trobe University offers undergraduate fee-paying places to domestic students.

For all teaching periods, undergraduate fees are due and payable on the date specified on the University’s Statement of Account. A student must not have incurred any tuition fee liability (remained enrolled past the Unit Census Date) to be entitled to a full refund of the fees for a specific unit.

Postgraduate domestic fees

La Trobe University offers postgraduate fee-paying places to domestic students.

For all teaching periods, postgraduate fees are due and payable on the date specified on the University’s Statement of Account. A student must not have incurred any tuition fee liability (remained enrolled past the Unit Census Date) to be entitled to a full refund of the fees for a specific unit.

For further information refer to the 2008 Domestic Fees webpage at www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/fees

Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

To be eligible to be made an offer of a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) you must:

• be an Australian citizen or a New Zealand citizen, or a holder of an Australian permanent visa (including an Australian permanent humanitarian visa)
• complete a ‘Request for Commonwealth Support and HECS-HELP’ form
• have sufficient Student Learning Entitlement to undertake the units of study within the offered course (refer to SLE below).

As a Commonwealth-supported student, the Australian Government will contribute towards your study costs. Students who are offered a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) are usually required to pay a Student Contribution.

Maximum Student Contribution amounts for a Commonwealth Supported place

The following table shows the maximum Student Contribution amounts for a place that may be charged for units of study in 2008. These rates apply to Commonwealth Supported students who are not covered by the transitional arrangements in the Higher Education Support (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 2003 and the Transitional Arrangements for Students Guidelines issued under that Act or the saving provision in Schedule 7 of the Higher Education legislation Amendment (2007 Budget measures) Act 2007

Maximum Student Contribution amounts for a Commonwealth Supported place for pre-2008 students

For pre-2008 students, the maximum student contribution amount that may be charged for Accounting, Administration, Economics, and Commerce units is $7260. This amount applies to Commonwealth supported students who commenced a course of study before 1 January 2008 and are covered by the saving provision in Schedule 7 of the Higher Education Legislation Amendment (2007 Budget Measures)Act 2007.

Maximum Student Contribution amounts for a Commonwealth Supported place for pre-2005 students

The following table shows the maximum Student Contribution amounts for a place that pre-2005 HECS students (who are not pre-1997 students) may be charged for a unit of study undertaken in 2008. These rates apply to Commonwealth Supported students who are covered by the Higher Education Support (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 2003 and the Transitional Arrangements for Students Guidelines issued under that Act.

Maximum Student Contribution amount for a place for pre-1997 students

The maximum Student Contribution amount for a place that pre-1997 students may be charged for units of study in 2008 is $3061. This rate applies to Commonwealth Supported students who commenced their course of study before 1997, and who are covered by the Higher Education Support (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 2003 and the Transitional Arrangements for Students Guidelines issued under that Act.

Payment of the Student Contribution

All Australian citizens and holders of permanent humanitarian visas who are offered a Commonwealth Supported Place may choose one of the following methods to pay their Student Contribution amount:

• pay the full Student Contribution amount up-front or make a partial payment ($500 or more) and receive a 20% discount on the amount paid;* or
• defer their Student Contribution amount by taking out a HECS-HELP* or FEE-HELP* debt, which will be repaid via the Australian Taxation Office when the student’s income reaches the thresholds set by the Government; or
• New Zealand citizens and permanent residents (other than an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) can also access Commonwealth Supported Places, however they must pay the full Student Contribution amount up-front without any discount.

Detailed information on the University’s policies and procedures regarding FEE-HELP will be available at the University’s website www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/fees

1. Note: Permanent Residents and New Zealand citizens are not eligible to defer their HECS-HELP. Permanent Residents and New Zealand citizens are only eligible to pay their fees up-front without a discount.

Student Learning Entitlement (SLE)

If you are an Australian citizen, New Zealand citizen or a holder of an Australian permanent visa (including an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) you will receive a Student Learning Entitlement (SLE) giving you access to seven full-time years or part-time equivalent as a Commonwealth Supported student. Additional SLE is allocated in specific circumstances, for example if you are enrolled in an undergraduate course that is longer than six years. SLE is consumed as the student enrolment is finalised after each Census date.

Commonwealth Higher Education Student Support Number (CHESSN)

When a person applies for admission to La Trobe University, either through Victorian Tertiary Admission Centre (VTAC), Universities Admission Centre (UAC), or via direction application, personal identifying information will be provided electronically to the Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) and the Australian Taxation Office, after each applicant has given their consent, for the allocation of a CHESSN.

DEST will be responsible for allocating CHESSNs or to return an existing CHESSN for the applicant.

Each eligible student receiving Commonwealth assistance through a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) will be allocated a CHESSN. This number will stay with the student throughout their academic life, and for the management of their Commonwealth assistance. Students will be notified of their CHESSN on their Commonwealth Assistance Notice which is sent after the Census date of their first unit. Students are responsible for monitoring their eligibility for Commonwealth support and Student Learning Entitlement balance.

To obtain more information, refer to: www.goingtouni.gov.au or www.latrobe.edu.au/study

Remissions and refunds of fees

Remission (refund) of unit fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP debt

Prior to a Unit Census Date, applications may be made to have any unit tuition fees and part payments with respect to HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP liability, refunded directly by electronic funds transfer.

After a Unit Census Date, normally liability is non refundable. If a student becomes seriously ill or other special circumstances occur and they are unable to continue studies, application can be made to have their fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP debt for the relevant teaching period reduced or removed.

‘Special circumstances’ does not include lack of knowledge or understanding of fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP and how they are administered, or of La Trobe University’s enrolment procedures and regulations. Students who have paid fees, or have a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan and want a refund must apply in writing using the appropriate ‘Application for Remission of Debt and Re-crediting of Student Learning Entitlement’ form to the University:

• Attention: Remission of Fees, HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP
• Manager Student Records
• La Trobe University Victoria 3086

To seek further information and advice on Remission of Debt and Re-crediting of Student Learning Entitlement for HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP, visit your local Student Administration Office.

Detailed information on the University’s policies and procedures regarding Remission of Debt and Re-crediting of Student Learning Entitlement is available at the University’s website: www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/fees

Refunds

To seek further information and advice regarding refunds visit your local Student Administration Office or access detailed information regarding the University’s refund policies and procedures and appropriate application forms at www.latrobe.edu.au/acadserv/current/fees

International students should consult the International Refund Policy.

Other information about fees and charges

Incidental fees (fees for goods and services incidental to studies) – Legislation

Commonwealth supported students and domestic fee-paying students generally must be able to complete the requirements of their course of study without the imposition of fees that are not a Student Contribution amount or a tuition fee.

However, certain fees are not considered to be Student Contribution amounts or tuition fees (see clause 33.3) [HESA – s19-109]. One fee that is not considered a tuition fee or a Student Contribution amount is a fee that is incidental to studies.

The criteria for deciding if a fee is incidental are set out in Chapter 12 of the Commonwealth Grant Scheme Guidelines [HESA – s19-105(3) (f)] and are described in clauses 19.2 and 19.3.

Circumstances in which providers may levy fees

In accordance with chapter 12 of the Commonwealth Grant Scheme Guidelines, a provider may charge a student for a good or service related to the provision of their course if one of the following criteria applies:

• The fee is for a good or service that is not essential to the course of study, or example:
• access to Internet and computer facilities (except where these are required as part of a course);
• printing of notes from the Internet or discs; and
• graduation ceremonies in cases where the student is not required to attend the ceremony in order to obtain their award.
• The fee is for an alternative form or alternative forms of, access to a good or service that is an essential component of a course but is otherwise made readily available at no additional charge by the provider, for example:
• lecture notes or tapes, provided that lectures are available to students free of charge;
• electronic provision of essential information if the information is also readily available free of charge in another form (e.g., in the university library); and
• reading material, such as anthologies of required readings, if these texts are also available free of charge.
• The fee is for an essential good or service that the student has the choice of acquiring from a supplier other than the provider and is for:
• equipment or items that become the physical property of the student and that are not consumed during the course of study; for example:
• artwork; fabric for sewing class; first aid courses; police clearance checks; musical instruments; protective clothing or footwear; stethoscopes; dance shoes; and reference tests.
• food, transport and accommodation costs associated with the provision of field trips.
• The fee is a fine or penalty, if the charge is levied principally as a disincentive and not in order to raise revenue or cover administrative costs, For example:
• fines or penalties for late enrolments, late variations to enrolments, late withdrawals from a course, and late payment of charges;
• review of grade if a student has already passed the unit but is seeking to improve their grade;
• and a charge for an assessment of prior learning in circumstances where a person has not applied for entry to the institution.

Circumstances in which providers must not levy fees

Providers must not charge students for a good or service which is required for a course of study unless that good or service, or an alternative to it, is also available to students at no additional charge, for example: course materials, such as: unit outlines, reading lists, tutorial or seminar topics and problems, assignment and essay questions, and requirements and guidelines for the presentation of work; access to library books, periodicals and manuals; clinic, laboratory or workshop materials such as anaesthetics, chemicals, filters, fuel, fertilisers, animal feed or crops used in practical sessions or research; access to computers or other on-line resources; recognition of prior learning if the student is enrolled with the provider or the student is applying for enrolment (including auditions); equipment and manuals which a professional in the field would not be required to own, such as fixtures in a clinic, laboratory or workshop; or large items of equipment and relevant workshop manuals required for their use; admissions services; examinations or assessments including practical assessment, for example, which requires the services of musical accompanists; reassessment of results where a student has failed an assessment and thereby failed a subject or unit; and mailing charges associated with distance education.

Financial assistance

A variety of assistance options are available for students. All intending applicants are advised to check current details with the Student Administration Office on each campus that are available for assistance on all financial matters.

Aboriginal Study Assistance Scheme (Abstudy)

Abstudy is a Commonwealth government scheme for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. In order to receive this benefit, a student must be studying an approved course and not receiving any other government assistance. Further advice and application forms are available from your local Aboriginal Liaison Unit/Officer. Forms are also available at DEST offices or Centrelink. Tel: 132 317.

Austudy and Youth Allowance

Austudy is the Commonwealth government student assistance scheme, which assists students 25 years of age and over, undertaking approved full-time secondary and tertiary studies.

For those under 25 years of age the Youth Allowance provides similar benefits. The assistance is subject to a means test and to certain conditions of eligibility.

All students are encouraged to obtain advice and, if appropriate, apply through the relevant student advisory service on their campus. For additional information visit the website at www.centrelink.gov.au

Loans schemes

Two schemes are available to eligible students.

Student Loan Fund

Loans are available to assist students to support essential needs in order to complete their studies. Essential needs may include but are not limited to books, equipment, computer software and hardware, travel for research and course placement.

Loans will not be granted for daily parking costs at University campuses and daily transport costs.

More information is available about the Student Loan Fund is available from:

• Tel: (03) 9479 3827
• www.latrobe.edu.au/finaid/ or
• Email: finaid@latrobe.edu.au

OS-HELP in 2008

OS-HELP is a loan scheme available to assist eligible undergraduate students to undertake some of their study overseas. Students may receive up to $5,299 per six-month period. OS-HELP loan funds can be used for any of the associated expenses incurred when studying overseas, such as airfares, accommodation or settling expenses.

For further information go to the ‘Going to Uni’ website at www.goingtouni.gov.au

or contact the OS-HELP Officer to obtain an application package via email at oshelp@latrobe.edu.au

Postgraduate awards

La Trobe University offers a number of awards for candidates who wish to undertake a higher degree by research. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of excellence to persons of exceptional promise.

Details are available from the Research and Graduate Studies Office at the Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus. The closing date for applications for candidature and scholarship is 31 October 2007 for Australian and New Zealand citizens and 30 September 2007 for international applicants.

To be eligible for most awards applicants must have completed at least four years of tertiary studies or equivalent, and hold qualifications at Honours 1 or equivalent level.

Application kits and further details on the eligibility criteria and conditions are available directly from the school in which you wish to study, or by accessing the website at www.latrobe.edu.au/rgso/scholarships.htm#candidature

Successful research applicants will normally receive a non-taxable stipend.

Research Training Scheme (RTS)

The RTS provides block grants to eligible higher education institutions to support research training for students undertaking Doctorates and Masters by research. The RTS provides these students, referred to as Commonwealth-funded HDR students, with a Commonwealth-funded place for up to a maximum period of four years’ full-time equivalent study for a Doctorate by research and two years’ full-time equivalent study for a Masters by research.

An RTS student must be:

• an Australian citizen
• an Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen
• enrolled in an accredited higher degree by research course.

All students interested in pursuing higher degree studies by research should make enquiries directly to the postgraduate coordinator in the relevant faculty/school. Please contact:

• Faculty of Education
• Email: t.d’argenio-smith@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 3918
• Fax: (03) 9479 3070

• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Email: Health@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 3583
• Fax: (03) 9479 2507

• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Email: LHUSS@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 2023
• Fax: (03) 9479 1700

• Faculty of Law and Management
• Email: mrinali.clarke@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 1603

• Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering
• Email: p.jones@latrobe.edu.au
• Tel: (03) 9479 3588
• Fax (03) 9479 3030

Scholarships, awards and prizes

La Trobe University will offer a number of scholarships for commencing and continuing students in 2008, ranging in value from $2,000 - $5,000 per year, including Commonwealth Scholarships. Some scholarships will assist rural and regional students, or those from a low socio-economic background, or Indigenous students. Others will recognise students with exceptional academic results. Grants are also available for honours students. More than 450 scholarships are awarded annually to commencing and continuing students across all faculties and campuses of the University. Further information and application forms, can be obtained at www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships or see the ‘Scholarships and prizes’ chapter in this Handbook. The application process and closing dates vary for each scholarship program.

The Scholarships Unit is responsible for administering university-wide undergraduate scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. Faculties, campuses, and residential colleges also offer and administer a wide range of scholarships and prizes for students at all levels, in most courses. Visit the same web page (above) for eligibility details and how to apply.