Frequently asked questions

Why should I attend Orientation Week?

Orientation Week (O’Week) is an opportunity for you to get a head start in finding out as much as possible about your course, your faculty and the University before official classes begin. Attending O’Week is also a great way to learn about what’s on offer to help you manage your studies, get involved in campus life and meet new friends. Each campus has an Orientation event, which includes campus tours, academic induction sessions, social activities and general information sessions. Centrelink payments cover your attendance at O’Week.

How can I find my timetable?

Class timetables are administered by the Academic Services Division for the University. See the timetables page for personal and general timetables. You can also access timetable information via StudentOnLine.

How do I book a tutorial?

Once you have enrolled in a subject you may need to sign up for a tutorial for that subject. Each faculty has different ways they like you to sign up, and they will let you know what you need to do. Check out the Getting your timetable section for more information.

How will I know where to go?

By logging on to StudentOnLine, or by visiting the timetable website, you will be able to access your personalised student timetable which will outline the classes available to you. It will also outline the locations of the classes and time times they commence. To find your class, browse the list of University maps online. Attending Orientation is also a great way to get a tour of the campus and the specific buildings you need to use.

How do I get my username and password for StudentOnLine and student email?

Your La Trobe Student Account username and password is located on your initial ‘Statement of Account’ only. This username and password controls access to:

• StudentOnLine (access your enrolment details, change your address and more)
• Learning Management System (LMS) (online learning tool for students)
• Student email
• Library systems
• Computer/wireless access on campus
• Anti-virus software access
• OASIS (online timetabling system)

What is the LMS?

La Trobe’s Learning Management System (LMS) is Moodle. This system may be referred to as the LMS or as Moodle - it is the same system. The LMS is web based and allows you to locate learning materials and activities related to your studies from any location with internet access.  Not all subjects will use LMS, so check with your lecturer or Subject Outline first. For more information and user guides, go to the LMS site.

What text books will I need?

It is suggested that you confirm the required texts with lecturers before you go out and purchase them.

What will happen in my first weeks?

For most students (unless otherwise informed), official classes will commence after the Orientation week (see key dates). These first classes are vital as they will contain important information regarding what you will need in order to effectively study at La Trobe, who you should contact if you need help, and what text books and materials you may need if you haven’t already been told.

What is required from me in a lecture?

At University, there are usually four different types of teaching modes: lectures, tutorials/seminars, practicals, and private study. Lectures are where a large number of students- usually the entire population of those students who have enrolled in the subject- attended a one to two hour presentation by the lecturer. The lecturer is usually the lead academic staff member who is involved in research and teaching on the topic.

The purpose of the lecture is to explore new topics and discuss the set readings for a particular area within the subject. It will also provide administrative information when needed, such as when assignments are due, or who to contact in faculties. Lectures help build a sense of a shared sphere of learning; that is, a learning community and a community of enquiry.

Students are encouraged to take notes in lectures as they will provide useful information on the major topic areas that are explored in the subject. For information on note taking in lectures, visit the Academic Language & Learning website.

What is required from me in a tutorial/seminar?

Tutorials and seminars are where you engage in open discussion with the rest of the group about a prescribed topic. The main difference between a seminar and a tutorial is the size of the groups and length of the session, usually with seminars consisting of more people and running from two–three hours. Tutorials are usually smaller, and run from one–two hours.

Tutorials/seminars are usually led by tutors, who are often postgraduate students, or early career researchers working alongside a lecturer or lead academic staff member.

In tutorials and seminars, the group will openly discuss a range of topics, examine certain questions, analyse texts or situations, whilst providing students with the opportunity to ask in-depth questions about a topic or about the subject. Students may also be required to give presentations or talks within tutorials or seminars.

What is required from me in a practical?

“Pracs” are where students learn about the subject in a physical and practical manner. This is to say, you DO what you have been taught; they are participatory sessions to examine practices and procedures through personal application these sessions are usually supervised.

For science students, this is usually a “lab” session where you will be working within a laboratory. “Pracs” also apply to Education students, more commonly known as a Practicum where students will work in schools and Health Science students, where they are usually referred to as Clinical Placements.

Where can I go if I have a complaint or a grievance?

In general, wherever possible, the first point of contact should be the supervisor or person responsible for the area that took the action that has provoked the complaint.  If a complaint or grievance regarding an academic matter or an administrative decision or action is not resolved through the relevant faculty, school or administrative department, advice may be sought from The Student Complaints Office.

Where do I go for accommodation advice?

At La Trobe there is affordable on-campus accommodation on most campuses as well as off-campus accommodation options close to each of our campuses. We manage a wide variety of student accommodation designed to meet the needs of international and local students as well as offering information about privately-run accommodation off-campus.

Where do I go for financial help?

Some financial assistance is available through Student Administration.  La Trobe University offers a range of scholarships that you may be eligible for. The Career Development Centre can assist you in looking for part time or casual work.

What if I need help with my studies?

To find out more about how we can help you do your best, contact your nearest Language and Academic Skills Units for an appointment. You can also visit the Academic Language and Learning site for more information.

How can I get involved in University life?

La Trobe University offers a diverse range of student activities that can enable you to grow personally and academically. Our campuses provide a vibrant backdrop to our academic achievements and offer an unbeatable lifestyle. Get involved at La Trobe by visiting the Get Involved website.

What if I am an international student?

International students can access a range of information through La Trobe International.

How to contact us

For more information on La Trobe University services, facilities and resources, please visit the Current Students site. If you are unable to find what you are looking for, please email your question to newstudents@latrobe.edu.au