13/01/2009 | Australia, Masters and PhD

Australia: Go down under for your graduate studies

By: Ann Graham

Australian courses are offered online and in offshore campuses across the globe

Since 1910, Australia has been using distance learning to reach students in remote areas of the country. Now, it is a world leader in distance education, online and e-learning. Australian courses are offered online and in offshore campuses across the globe, giving students the opportunity to study for an Australian degree from anywhere in the world.

Quality of education, quality of life
Universities receive generous government funding and the cost of an Australian degree is significantly lower than in the UK or US. What’s more, for students wishing to study abroad in Australia, there is the opportunity to work up to 20 hours a week. Students can be assured that university qualifications are up to international standard. The Australian Government regulates universities, and all courses offered to international students must be approved on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
The quality of Australian universities is further enhanced by international links, industry collaboration and a commitment to research. There are more than 100 major scientific specialist research centres and is ranked third among OECD countries for public investment in research and development as a proportion of the GDP.
The quality of life in Australia is of an exceptionally high standard with a stable economy and low unemployment. Ranked by the United Nations as one of the best countries in the world in which to live, in terms of education levels, income, and life expectancy, Australia is a country in which graduate students have a freedom of expression and a multicultural society that will add to their study experience. Independent thought and critical discussion is encouraged at all levels within Australian universities and by studying with people from different nationalities, students gain additional insights that make for a fulfilling degree program.
Australia is well known for its spectacular and varied landscape. Its flora and fauna are largely unique – more than 80 per cent of it’s plants, mammal, reptiles and frogs are not found anywhere else in the world. There are currently 14 Australian parks on the World Heritage list and with the desert plains, rain forests, coral reefs and ancient rock formations, Australia has the perfect environment for both study and pleasure. American student Ross Bauer took advantage of Australia’s unique ecosystem by studying at James Cook University in Queensland. “For marine biology students, the Great Barrier Reef is beyond belief,” he says.
The knowledge gained and merit received from Australia universities helps graduate students further their careers. Indian manager, George Chrian says that his Masters of Management from Monash University has made him knowledgeable and marketable. “My education in Australia has helped me to think critically, plan strategically and to act practically,” he says. “International education makes you a good international citizen, and is the seed for a better future for yourself, as well as for a better world.”

With world-class education institutions to study at, an international range of qualifications to choose from, and a unique country in which to experience it all, it’s hard not to consider going down under for your graduate studies.