Handbook

Required reading

General information

Undergraduate

Postgraduate

International

Handbook sitemap

Information for Prospective and Current Students

Campus Student Administration Centres

Students should refer administrative queries to the following:

Albury-Wodonga Campus

Bendigo Campus

City Campus

Melbourne Campus

Mildura Campus

Shepparton Campus

Important dates

2013 Orientation periods

Orientation week	Starts on	Ends on
Semester 1	25 February	1 March 2013
Semester 2	22 July	26 July 2013

2013 standard teaching periods

Semester or term	Starts on	Ends on
Summer Semester	7 January	15 February 2013 (may vary from faculty to faculty)
Semester 1	4 March	7 June 2013
Semester 2	29 July	1 November 2013
All Year Semester	4 March	1 November 2013
Winter Semester	8 July	19 July 2013
Term 1	7 January	17 March 2013
Term 2	1 April	9 June 2013
Term 3	24 June	1 September 2013
Term 4	16 September	24 November 2013

2013 research teaching periods

Research periods	Starts on	Ends on
TR-RES-1	1 January	30 June
TR-RES-2	1 July	31 December

2013 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 Census Dates on the University’s website at: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/calendar/all-students

Non-standard teaching periods appear in the form Wxxyy, for example W0622. These indicate the whole weeks of the teaching period, from the first Monday to the last Sunday. For example: W0622 has a teaching period that begins on the first day of the sixth whole week in 2013 (Monday 4 February) and finishes on the last day of the twenty-second whole week in 2013 (Sunday 2 June).

2013 official vacation dates

Vacation	Starts on	Ends on
Mid-semester 1 vacation (including Easter)	1 April	7 April 2013
Inter-semester vacation	8 July	28 July 2013
Mid-semester 2 vacation	30 September	6 October 203

2013 official examination/assessment dates

Examination period	Starts on - Ends on
Supplementary/special examination period (for semester 2 2012)	7 January - 11 January 2013
Summer examination period for 2013	19 February - 22 February 2013
Semester 1 mid-year examination period	14 June - 4 July 2013
Winter semester examination period	23 July - 26 July 2013
Mid-year supplementary/special examination period	5 August - 9 August 2013
Semester 2/all year semester annual examination period	8 November - 28 November 2013

2013 official study breaks

Study Breaks	Starts on	Ends on
Semester 1	11 June	13 June 2013
Semester 2/All Year Semester	4 November	7 November 2013

2013 public holidays

The University will close for the Christmas/New Year break at 5.00 pm on 24 December 2012 and will re-open on 2 January 2013.

The University is also closed on:

Date	Public holiday
Monday 28 January 2013	Australia Day
Friday 29 March to Tuesday 2 April 2013 (TBC) inclusive	Easter
Thursday 25 April 2013	ANZAC Day
Monday 10 June 2013	Queen’s Birthday

The University remains open on Labour Day (11 March 2013), Melbourne Cup Day (5 November 2013) 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 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 Universities Admissions Centre NSW & ACT (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 of the four VCE English subjects – English, Literature, English Language or English as a Second Language – is acceptable provided that Unit 3 and Unit 4 are 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) or equivalent. 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 (www.latrobe.edu.au/mature-age/apply/pathways).

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 and 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 2013 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) test or another test acceptable to the University. For further information telephone La Trobe International 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 2013 – Your annual guide to applications, scholarships, courses and institutions and in the VICTER 2013 – Victorian Tertiary Entrance Requirements. (www.vtac.edu.au)

Special entry access schemes (SEAS)

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
• an aptitude test, e.g. Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
• an interview
• a folio.

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 VTAC Guide 2013 – Your annual guide to applications, scholarships, courses and institutions or at 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. 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 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 2013 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. Depending on the course(s) applied for, applicants under this category may also be required to submit an autobiographical essay or undertake a STAT Multiple Choice 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
• low socio-economic background
• 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.

For information specific to La Trobe, go to www.latrobe.edu.au/study/

Regional consideration

In pursuing its regional mission, the University may adjust upwards the aggregate points of applicants from regional schools. Details of the Rural and Regional School Access Scheme (RRSAS) bonus applied to specific course codes can be found at www.latrobe.edu.au/study/.

Admission procedures

La Trobe University offers undergraduate, selected graduate and graduate entry teaching (GET) courses through VTAC.

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 28 September 2012. Late applications will be accepted by VTAC until 5.00 pm on 9 November 2012, subject to the payment of the prescribed late fee. Very late applications will be accepted by VTAC until 5.00 pm on 7 December 2012, subject to the payment of the prescribed very late fee. The Very Late application process is not available for graduate entry teaching (GET) courses.

Offers of admission

The normal VTAC procedure detailed in the VTAC Guide 2013 provides for undergraduate applicants to be offered places as follows:

Date	Offers
Late November	Early offers
Mid January	Round one offers
February	Round two and subsequent offers

Students are notified of offers officially by post. Prospective students applying directly to the University would normally expect to receive offers after Round one. Refer to the VTAC site www.vtac.edu.au for release dates.

Enrolment and re-enrolment

Enrolment for 2013

New domestic undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students who apply through VTAC or UAC will be forwarded a copy of the La Trobe University Enrolment Guide 2013 after they receive an offer. New domestic undergraduate and postgraduate students who apply directly to the University and are successful will receive a letter of offer from the University. New international undergraduate, postgraduate coursework and postgraduate research students who apply directly to the University via La Trobe International and are successful will receive a letter of offer from that office accompanied by enrolment information. Enquiries from domestic students regarding research and higher degree studies should be made directly to Research Services by email: rgs@latrobe.edu.au

Advanced Standing (Credit)

[NOTE: International Students should also read the information on Advanced Standing in the International section of the Handbook.]

Students who have studied at tertiary level elsewhere, or who have relevant studies or work experience, may be eligible for advanced standing (credit) towards a La Trobe University qualification. Each Faculty has specific policies in respect to the number and type of subjects and work experience it is willing to accept for advanced standing (credit) purposes. Students should apply for advanced standing (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 advanced standing (credit) through the La Trobe – TAFE Pathways Program.

For applicants with partial university studies, completion of individual subjects may lead to advanced standing (credits), determined on an individual basis which takes into account the subjects already completed and those required in the La Trobe University course. Further information is available from the relevant La Trobe University Faculty or Course Adviser. Advanced Standing (credit) must normally be finalised within two weeks of enrolment, and no later than the relevant subject/s census dates. The final step in receiving advanced standing (credit) includes the removal of subjects for which a student has been granted Advanced Standing (credit).

International students holding a student visa are reminded that a student visa holder’s enrolment and academic progress are monitored by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). Therefore, students are required to be enrolled in accordance with their visa requirements, their current Condition of Enrolment letter and/or agreed Course Study Plan.

To access La Trobe University’s Advanced Standing, Articulation and Credit Transfer Policy and Procedures go to www.latrobe.edu.au/policy/.

Re-enrolment for 2013 (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 and postgraduate coursework students normally re-enrol from mid October each year via the web-based service called StudentOnLine unless advised otherwise by their Faculty. Research and higher degree students are not normally required to re-enrol annually as their enrolment is continuous unless advised otherwise by their Faculty or Research Services.

Continuing (returning) students who fail to re-enrol by the date required by their Faculty may lose their place in the course as their course enrolment will be deemed to have lapsed (Absent With Out Leave - AWOL). Additionally, failure to re-enrol by the date specified may result in the levy of a late re-enrolment fee.

Enrolment Variations to Coursework – addition and deletion of subjects

Any change or variation to a student's enrolment is made via StudentOnLine in accordance with their course Study Plan. Alternatively, students may submit a ‘Variation of Enrolment’ form to their Faculty office for approval if they cannot access StudentOnLine. Students can access StudentOnLine via www.latrobe.edu.au/students/enrolment/studentonline

Addition of a subject

Each Faculty has specific rules regarding variations to enrolment that involve the addition of a subject after the commencement of the teaching period, but prior to the relevant Census Date. Enquiries regarding these rules should be directed to your Faculty office or to the local Student Administration Office at the regional campuses. Addition of any subject after the relevant  Census Date will  incur fees at the full fee amount. Domestic students are not automatically entitled to HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP for these subjects as enrolment conditions for a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) have not been met.

Depending on the course Study Plan and subject rules and conditions, the final decision on any change to an enrolment is that of the student, with the exception of adding subjects after the commencement of the teaching period.  Decisions made by students regarding their enrolment should be made in consultation with an adviser of studies within their Faculty.

Discontinuation of a subject

All changes to enrolment involving the discontinuation of a subject should normally be made prior to the relevant Census Date. Discontinuation of a subject attempt after the Census Date will normally lead to the subject attempt remaining on the student’s academic record. Any Fees, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability will remain if discontinuation of a subject is after the relevant Census Date. Depending on the course Study Plan and subject rules and conditions, the final decision on any change to an enrolment is the student's. Decisions made by students regarding their enrolment should be made in consultation with an adviser of studies within their Faculty.

Important dates for the discontinuation of a subject in the Official 2013 Standard Teaching Periods

Semester	Semester starts	Semester ends	Census Day - last day for discontinuation of subject(s) without financial penalty
Summer Semester	7 January	15 February (may vary from faculty to faculty)	19 January
Semester 1	4 March	7 June	4 April
Semester 2	29 July	1 November	29 August
All Year Semester	4 March	1 November	23 May
Term 1	7 January	17 March	29 January
Term 2	1 April	9 June	23 April
Term 3	24 June	1 September	16 July
Term 4	16 September	24 November	8 October

Census Date

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

Detailed information regarding the University’s Subject Census Dates for 2013 is available at the University’s website http://www.latrobe.edu.au/calendar/all-students.

Grades after the discontinuation of a subject

Discontinuing a subject after completing one-third of the teaching period in which the subject is offered (or the Census Date), but prior to completing two-thirds of the teaching period in which the subject was offered, results in a late withdrawal (the fee liability remains but the subject result is not recorded as a failure).

Discontinuing a subject after completing two-thirds of the teaching period in which the subject is offered, but before the end of that teaching period, results in a KN grade being awarded (the fee liability remains and the subject result is recorded as a failure).

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

Students must check their enrolment details carefully prior to Census Dates. This can be done using the web-based service, StudentOnLine. Census Dates can be accessed via the University’s website at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/calendar/all-students. Discovery of incorrect subject enrolment details must be brought to the attention of the student's Faculty or local Student Administration Office immediately.

Cross-institution subject enrolment for La Trobe students at another higher education provider

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

Requests must be approved by the student's Faculty in conjunction with the other higher education provider and then lodged with the local Student Administration Office.

Responsibility for enrolment and associated obligations at the other higher education provider rests entirely with the student. A cross-institutional (Out) student will incur a fee, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability at the other higher education provider for the subject(s), and appropriate arrangements must be made with that higher education provider.

Cross-institution subject enrolment at La Trobe University for students from another higher education provider

Students from another higher education provider within Australia who wish to study at La Trobe University must complete an 'Application for Cross-Institution Enrolment (In)' form. The Faculty of subject enrolment must approve any request from a non-La Trobe University student, and the student must ensure that they are properly enrolled by the relevant subject 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 education provider.

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

Variations of course enrolment

Any changes to the status of a student's course enrolment must be made via application to the Faculty of Enrolment or local Student Administration Office for regional campuses. This includes deferral, leave of absence, transfer and discontinuation of course. The forms mentioned below are available from Faculty Offices or campus Student Administration Offices.

International students should read the additional information in the International section of this Handbook.

Deferral, leave of absence, transfer and withdrawal of course enrolment

Deferral of course enrolment (prior to enrolment in course / first subject census date)

IMPORTANT: International students who wish to defer their course enrolment must read the relevant information in the International section of this Handbook, and follow the instructions at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international/apply/defer.

Please note: The course offerings of the University are under continual review. Students applying for Deferment should take into consideration that a course from which they take leave may be revised or discontinued, or may cease to be accredited, during their period of absence. In these circumstances, every attempt will be made to provide the original program. However, where this is not possible, the University reserves the right to offer the student a place in an equivalent or near-equivalent course instead of the place in the specific course from which leave was taken.

Deferment will normally be granted in most undergraduate and some postgraduate coursework courses. The Admission Procedures - Deferment are available from the policy web site www.latrobe.edu.au/policy. 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 2013 and on the web at www.latrobe.edu.au/new-students/accept/defer.

All enquiries concerning the deferment of a postgraduate course should be directed first to the Faculty of enrolment or local Student Administration Office. It is not normally necessary to attend the University in person to seek deferment. Written applications should be made directly to the University by the date specified for accepting the offer. Application forms can be found in the La Trobe University Enrolment Guide and on the web at www.latrobe.edu.au/new-students/accept/defer.

Enquiries involving possible deferment of research and higher degree studies should be made directly to Research Services.

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

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

Leave of Absence of course enrolment (after enrolment in course)

IMPORTANT: International students who wish to take a leave of absence from their course enrolment must read the relevant information in the International section of this Handbook and follow the instructions at www.latrobe.edu.au/international/life/leaving/withdrawal.

Leave of Absence may be granted in all undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Faculties set policies regarding the administration of this process. All enquiries concerning the leave of absence of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree should be directed to the Faculty of enrolment for approval. It is not normally necessary to attend the University in person to seek leave of absence of course attempt. Written applications using the ‘Application for Leave of Absence’ form should be submitted directly to the Faculty responsible for the administration of the course.

Enquiries involving suspension of research and higher degree studies should be made directly to Research Services.

Students cannot take a leave of absence from their course enrolment to avoid the consequences of unsatisfactory academic progress in a given academic year.

Students who have unsatisfactory progress in a given progression period may be encouraged by their Faculty of enrolment to take a leave of absence from their course.

Fee, HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP liability depends on the date on which the student received approval from the Faculty to take a leave of absence from their course.

Students who fail to notify the University that they will be returning from a leave of absence by the date set by the Faculty of enrolment may forfeit their place, as their course attempt will lapse (Absent With Out Leave). International students holding a student visa should note that a Leave of Absence of study for greater than six months normally results in cancellation of their student visa. According to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) a student is required to either leave the country or apply for another visa within 28 days of the approved date of a Leave of Absence.

Students must surrender their La Trobe student ID card when they take a leave of absence. A student who has taken a leave of absence is not an enrolled student and does not have access to University facilities and services while on leave.

Transfer of course enrolment

IMPORTANT: International Students who wish to transfer to another course should also read the relevant information in the International section of this Handbook.

Transfers from one course to another within the University are 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 ‘nested’ course and from double degree to single degree programs.

An ‘Application to Transfer Course’ form must be completed and submitted to the Faculty of enrolment to which a student wishes to transfer. Faculties set dates for the submission of transfer forms. Applications for the transfer of a course received after the deadline date for submission, may not be considered. Students awaiting approval to transfer must re-enrol in their current course. If approved, students will be notified by their Faculty office.

International students must also receive approval from La Trobe International to be able to transfer their course. The University must inform the Department of Immigration and Citizenship if an international student transfers their course.

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

Discontinuation of course enrolment (withdrawal)

NOTE: This section covers mainly procedures for domestic students. International students who wish to discontinue their course should also read the relevant information in the International section of this Handbook.

Undergraduate and postgraduate domestic students can discontinue their course enrolment by completing a ‘Discontinuation of Enrolment’ form and submitting it to their Faculty of enrolment for approval.

Enquiries involving possible discontinuation of research and higher degree studies should be made directly to Research Services.

Students considering the discontinuation of their enrolment at the University are strongly encouraged to discuss this with a Faculty Course Adviser, consult with Counselling Services, or meet with the staff from the International Student Support Services at La Trobe International.

All changes to enrolments involving the discontinuation of a subject should normally be made prior to the Census Date for a given teaching period. A subject discontinued after the Census Date, but before the end of the teaching period may remain on the student’s academic record. Fee, HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP liability will remain depending on the Census Date for the affected subjects in the given teaching period.

Census dates for the deletion of a subject for the official semester and term dates are located at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/calendar/all-students

Refunding or crediting of Fees

[NOTE: This section covers mainly procedures for domestic students. International students should read the relevant information in the International section of this Handbook and also the Refund Policy available from www.latrobe.edu.au/international/fees/tuition.]

Credits or overpayments to enrolment fees usually arise from variations to enrolment, discontinuation of course enrolments and leaves of absence from studies. These credits are not automatically refunded. Students must apply via an ‘Application for Refund’ form at: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/students/fees/course/refunds.

In accordance with administrative requirements of the Higher Education Support Act (2003) domestic students must be informed of, and give consent to any overpayment in enrolment fees being used as credit against current and future liabilities with the University. If a domestic student's enrolment is varied, intermitted or discontinued resulting in an overpayment of tuition fees, the student must be given an opportunity to nominate whether they 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 award programs available

All of the award programs offered by La Trobe University are consistent with the Australian Qualifications Framework (the national framework for all qualifications in post-compulsory education and training). The Australian Qualifications Framework was under review at the time this Handbook was published, and some of the specifics below are subject to change.

Certificate IV

A Certificate IV is a sub-degree qualification. The time taken to gain the qualification normally varies from half a year to two years, depending on prior study and on factors related to the particular work area. The Certificate IV may offer a pathway to Diploma studies.

Diploma

The Diploma is a sub-degree level qualification, normally requiring the equivalent of one to two years of full-time study. Diploma programs may offer alternative pathways to degree studies.

Bachelor degree

The most common degree course is the Bachelor degree. Most Bachelor degrees require the equivalent of three years of full-time study; some professional degrees require longer. Graduate-entry Bachelor degrees – that is, Bachelor degrees that are open only to people who have already completed a first Bachelor degree – may require only two years of study. This Handbook contains full details of the Bachelor degrees available and the general entry requirements.

Double and combined awards and concurrent enrolments

The University offers a range of formal double-award programs, which allow students to receive two qualifications in less time than if they completed each qualification separately Typical double-award programs include double Bachelor degrees and double Master degrees. The University also offers combined qualifications of different types (e.g. Bachelor or Master degrees combined with Postgraduate Diplomas). In the case of combined qualifications, completion of both qualifications with no cross-accreditation of subjects is the norm. 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. It is possible to take combinations of awards (combined awards) for which there is no formal double-award program. Students require the permission of each Faculty involved to enrol concurrently in two single awards. For more information on programs of these types, consult the relevant Faculty office or Student Administration Office. The University's rules are set out in the Double, Combined and Joint Qualifications Policy and Procedures available from www.latrobe.edu.au/policy.

Honours year studies

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

Most Honours degrees require completion of a further year of study after completing the requirements for the basic (pass) degree. In some 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 the requirements for Honours successfully does not jeopardise a student’s entitlement to the pass degree.

Masters preliminary 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; see below.

Graduate Certificate

Candidates for a Graduate Certificate typically hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent. Although the duration of programs may vary, they generally require the equivalent of six months of full-time study. In some cases, the Graduate Certificate constitutes the first half of a Graduate Diploma; see below.

Graduate Diploma/Postgraduate Diploma

Candidates for a Graduate or Postgraduate Diploma typically hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent. A Graduate Diploma may comprise subjects at undergraduate (Bachelor degree) level, while a Postgraduate Diploma comprises subjects at postgraduate level. Although the duration of programs may vary, they generally require the equivalent of one year of full-time study. In some cases, a Graduate Certificate constitutes the first half of the Graduate Diploma; the Graduate Diploma in turn may serve as the first part of a Master by coursework degree.

Masters by coursework

Candidates for a Master degree by coursework typically hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent, with results that demonstrate aptitude for postgraduate study. Although the duration of programs may vary, they generally require the equivalent of one to two years of full-time study. While coursework is the main mode of study, the overall requirements for a Master degree by coursework may include a short thesis or other extended piece of work.

Research higher degree studies (Masters and doctoral degrees)

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

Please contact the following:

Timing of applications for higher degree candidature

Applications for candidature without scholarship may be submitted at any time. Applications for candidature with scholarship must be timed according to the closing dates for the two main scholarships. They are as follows for 2013:

Award title	Date
Australian Postgraduate Award	31 October 2012
La Trobe University Postgraduate Research Scholarships
international applicants	30 September 2012
Australian or New Zealand citizens	31 October 2012

For 2014:

Award title	Date
Australian Postgraduate Award	31 October 2013
La Trobe University Postgraduate Research Scholarships
international applicants	31 August 2013
Australian or New Zealand citizens	31 October 2013

For more information contact:

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 2013 enrolment will cease to be a student on the commencement of Semester 2 2013. A student 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 (Absent With Out Leave AWOL) if they are not formally enrolled.

A note regarding Centrelink: Student enrolment status for Centrelink purposes may differ and it is recommended that students seek advice from Centrelink.

Name changes

It is the student's responsibility to notify the University immediately of any name changes. Official documentary evidence (e.g. marriage certificate, passport, birth certificate, deed poll) is required before a change of name can be amended on the University’s student information system. The La Trobe University Testamurs Policy and Procedures provide that where an award has been conferred, a name may be changed and a replacement Testamur issued in accordance with the policy – see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/policy/.

Privacy of student information

Personal information about students is collected and handled by the University to ensure that students’  entitlements and obligations at La Trobe University are established and appropriately managed. La Trobe University respects the privacy of personal information and adheres to privacy laws. Any information that can reasonably identify a student is personal information, and the Information Privacy Principles (IPPs) of the Victorian Information Privacy Act apply. If the personal information is health information, then the Health Privacy Principles (HPPs) of the Victorian Health Records Act apply.
La Trobe must comply with the IPPs and HPPs on the management of personal and health information. This reinforces the University’s longstanding commitment to hold confidential all personal information about students and to disclose it only with the consent and knowledge of the student, or when legally permitted or required to do so.
Individual students may access the personal information that the University has collected about them from the Student Administration Office in accordance with the applicable laws.
Further information about information privacy at La Trobe University is available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/privacy

Use of email for communication with students

The La Trobe University's 'Use of Email for Official Correspondence with Students' Policy, Procedures and Guidelines, available from www.latrobe.edu.au/policy, set the rules for the use of email for the University’s messages to students. La Trobe University’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 La Trobe University Student email addresses allocated to students by the University. Communications about matters of critical importance, such as academic progress and academic misconduct, 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, no less than twice weekly
• the University cannot enter into email communication with students who contact the University from an email address other than their official La Trobe student email 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 StudentOnLine or by the ‘Amendment to Personal Details’ form available from their 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.

Student identity cards

La Trobe Student Photo ID Cards are issued to students at the time of their first enrolment. Students at Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga and Bendigo campuses are issued their cards on the day of enrolment. Students at the Franklin Street, Mildura and Shepparton campuses have their cards issued after their enrolment has been processed.

As part of the process of enrolling as a student of the University, students are required to have their photograph taken. The photograph will be stored securely in electronic form and will be used for the following purposes:

• identification (full terms and conditions for the identification cards produced by the University are available at www.latrobe.edu.au/students/card)
• production of class photo lists
• discharge of matters relating to individual or public security, safety and welfare
• as part of inquiries associated with suspected misconduct
• as part of inquiries associated with suspected unlawful activity or as otherwise permitted under Information Privacy Principle 2.1 of the Victorian Information Privacy Act.

This photograph is personal information and will be handled in accordance with the Information Privacy Principles (IPPs) of the Victorian Information Privacy Act. We will not release this photo for any purpose other than those listed above except with written consent from the student. For more details, refer to www.latrobe.edu.au/privacy/student-information.html.

If the student chooses not to allow their photograph to be taken, then it may not be possible for La Trobe University to process the student's enrolment.

If the Student ID card is damaged a replacement card can be purchased from the local Student Administration Office.

If the Student ID card is lost or stolen it must be reported immediately to the Student Administration Office (Melbourne) on (03) 9479 2005. It is also suggested that any card loss or theft is reported to the Library immediately to avoid any fraudulent book borrowing.  A replacement card be purchased from the local Student Administration Office. If the card was stolen a replacement card will be issued free of charge upon presentation of a police report.

Students should carry their La Trobe Student 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.

Students must return their Student ID card to the University when their enrolment ceases. 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 Student 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 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 identity, especially under examination conditions. Students will be required to provide both forms of ID while on campus and during examinations.

StudentOnLine

The University provides an interactive website for students called StudentOnLine 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 once only on the initial Statement of Account which is issued following a student’s commencing enrolment.

University charges

Fee	Amount
Late subject enrolment fee	$35
Revival of enrolment fee	$110
Late fee payment charge	$85
Academic transcript
24 hour service	$30
weekly service	$15
additional copies	$2
Graduation	$150
Replacement testamur	$100
Replacement StudentOnLine password/PIN	$10
‘To whom it may concern’ letter
48 hour service	$25
Late re-enrolment fee	$110
Personal (unofficial) record	$6
ID card replacement
Plain card	$10
SmartCard	$20
Handbook Course and Subject Description (previous years)	$2.50
Re-mark of work already passed	No Charge

The above are the 2012 fees and will be subject to increase in 2013.

For an explanation of the above charges or for further details, contact the Student Administration Office or email: studentcentre@latrobe.edu.au

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 the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) 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/students/fees/contact.