Study at VU

Non-award courses & cross-institutional study

Throughout your studies you may choose to undertake a short course or single units from our award courses, where you can expand on your skills, explore study areas outside of your course or simply to have fun while learning something new.

Depending on what you choose, this can take anywhere from a few hours (short courses) to a whole semester or year (studying overseas).

Short courses

We offer a wide variety of short courses if you would like to:

  • upgrade your business, communication and computer skills
  • gain credit towards your next qualification
  • have fun learning something new.

Refer to the individual course page for information on how to register.

Cross-institutional study (within Australia)

Throughout your study, you may be able to apply to study a unit at another institution. This is called ‘cross-institutional study’.

Current VU students (outbound)

If you are a current VU student, you can undertake a subject at another institution that will contribute towards completion of your course.

You are considered an ‘outbound’ student, and should apply using the cross-institutional outbound application form.

Non-VU students (inbound)

If you are not a VU student, and are enrolled in a course at another institution, you can apply to study a unit at VU that will be counted towards completion of your course at your home institution.

You are considered an ‘inbound’ student, and should apply using the cross-institutional inbound application form.

Study overseas

There are a number of options available where you can study overseas while gaining credit towards your course at VU.

You can study on an exchange placement with a partner institution, study abroad with an institution of your choice or join a study tour or short term program.

Find out more about studying overseas, including how to apply.

Single units of study

Single units of study are also an ideal opportunity to:

  • quickly update your skills and knowledge in a specific area, or explore a new area (if you are considering a career change or seeking a promotion at work)
  • learn more about something that's always fascinated you (such as learning a new language)
  • save money, compared with studying a whole course.

Individual units may also be a stepping stone or pathway into further study.

Find out more about the single units of study offered.

Further study

If you’ve successfully completed a single unit of study, you may seek credit for that unit when you apply to do further study in an award course (degree qualification). Find out more about credits for skills & past study.

Contact us

If you’re unsure what any of this means, please feel free to contact us – phone +61 3 9919 6100 or ask us a question. You can also chat online with one of our staff, Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm.