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MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 1 Murdoch New Student Guide
2 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 3
Congratulations___________________ 4
Get ready for university____________ 6
Understand your
degree and course ________________ 8
Enrol in units
and classes______________________10
Pay or defer your
tuition fees______________________14
Orientation week
checklist________________________16
Week one checklist________________18
Transport to uni__________________ 20
Food and fun on campus__________ 22
Learning expectations____________ 24
Assessments____________________ 28
Exams _________________________ 30
Support services_________________ 32
Additional information for
external students________________ 36
Additional information for
postgraduate students____________ 40
Uni speak_______________________ 42
Important dates_________________ 48
Important contact details__________ 49
Getting help from
family and friends________________ 50
4 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 5
Congratulations
and welcome to
Murdoch University
To make your transition to university as easy as possible,
we have created this student guide to provide insider’s
advice on how to be a successful student.
Whether you are returning to study after a long time, looking for a new challenge or
are embarking on your university journey for the first time, this guide will be useful to you.
Inside, you’ll find:
A list of key tasks to complete in your first few weeks at Murdoch
Information on how to become a successful student
Information on how to get help should you need it
Descriptions of all the terminology related
to being a student at Murdoch
On behalf of Student Services at Murdoch University,
we wish you every success with your studies.
6 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 7
Get ready for university
UniReady self-assessment The plan will contain helpful information
and guidance, including:
Complete the UniReady self-assessment
to prepare for your studies. Keep an eye »» Additional resources to help you
on your inbox, because a link to the self- study successfully
assessment will be emailed to you before »» A suggested study load based on your
semester begins. After you complete the other commitments
survey you will be sent a personalised »» Recommended support based on your
support plan based on your responses. individual strengths and weaknesses
»» An idea of the required time and
organisational skills needed for university
»» How to get help and support with
your studies
Update your personal
details online
It’s important to check that your
contact details are accurate and
up-to-date. You can do this by
logging into MyInfo and clicking
‘Personal Details’
goto.murdoch.edu.au/MyInfo
You can also update your gender
(i.e. F/M/X) and title (i.e. Mr/ Miss/
Ms/Mx/etc.) by asking through
MyAnswers > ‘Ask a Question’
myanswers.custhelp.com/app/ask
8 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 9
Understanding your course
We offer many different types of courses at Murdoch, all of
which have their own expertly-designed course structure. It is
important that you understand your course’s structure so you
can get the most out of your studies.
Your course requires the completion of To find your course structure, head to the
a certain number of ‘credit points’. For university Handbook and search for your
example, a three-year bachelor’s degree course. The Handbook can be accessed at
requires the completion of 72 credit points, handbook.murdoch.edu.au/
while a four-year bachelor’s degree requires
If you need help understanding your
96 points.
course structure, contact a Student
To achieve these credit points, you’ll Advisor for help: goto.murdoch.edu.au/
complete individual ‘units’ that belong to StudentAdvisors
your course. These units contribute to the
many different components that make-
up your course. Your course may have
components such as a career spine, course
core, majors, co-majors, minors and general
electives. Jump to page 44 for definitions
of these terms - you’ll be fluent in ‘uni
speak’ in no time!
10 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 11
Enrol in units and classes 2) Plan and enrol in units
To do
Before you begin your studies, you will need to go online to 01 Plan your units »» Find the units you need to enrol in by searching your
complete your unit enrolment. We have a helpful video that will course structure in the Handbook handbook.murdoch.
edu.au
take you through each step of this enrolment process. Watch on
»» Enter the name of your major in the title bar (e.g.
our website our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/Get- Accounting)
started-at-Murdoch/Enrol or follow the written instructions below. »» Be careful to choose the right version of your course by
checking the course code and year (it should be the most
recent offering)
»» Click the title to open the course outline, and then click on
1) Complete the Self-Enrolment Steps the ‘course structure’ tab
»» You will see the full list of units for your course. You
To do Session only need to enrol for units one calendar year at a time.
Look for the little codes under each unit that signify the
Log into MyInfo goto.murdoch.edu.au/MyInfo teaching periods,
e.g. ‘S1’ (semester 1) and ‘S2’ (semester 2)
Enrol Click on ‘Enrol’ to access the self-enrolment steps
»» Note: A full time study load is 12 credit points per
Disclaimer Accept the MyInfo disclaimer semester. This usually equates to four units per semester.
See page 24 for more information on study load
Services Answer the questions in order
Government Statistics Answer the questions in order 02 Enrol in your units »» Return to the ‘units’ step in the self-enrolment steps
»» Type the unit code in the search bar and search (don’t put
Course completion date Estimate your course completion date a space between the letters and numbers)
Complete the Commonwealth Assistance Form »» Select the unit you would like to enrol in
Commonwealth Assistance Form
and nominate if you would like to obtain a HECS- »» There may be multiple versions of the same unit. Find
(eligible students only – see
HELP loan for your fees. You will need your Tax File the version you need by checking the teaching period
page 14)
Number (e.g. S1/S2), study mode (e.g. ‘D’ for on campus or ‘X’ for
SA-HELP Form Complete the SA-HELP form to pay or defer your external) and campus
(eligible students only – see Student Services and Amenities Fee. You will again »» Once you have selected the version you need, click ‘add
page 14) need your Tax File Number unit’
This is the step where you enrol in your units. See the »» Search and add the other units you need
Units
next page for more information »» When you are done, click on ‘save changes’
This step has been pre-filled, so you don’t have to »» If any units show as invalid, click on the ‘why is this
do anything. If you would like to double check or invalid?’ box to get more information
Unit-Sets
change your major or minors, please submit a request »» Please note your enrolment status will stay as ‘inactive’
through myanswers.custhelp.com/app/ask until semester begins
03 Getting help and »» If you need help planning or enrolling in your units, please
support contact the Student Centre for guidance goto.murdoch.
edu.au/StudentCentre
12 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 13
3) Sign up for classes
Tip: Using the »» A good way to explore the class options for different units is
teaching through the ‘teaching timetable’ timetables.murdoch.edu.au/
To do Session timetable to teaching
explore class »» Select the upcoming semester (i.e. Semester 1 or Semester 2)
01 Understanding »» Now that you have enrolled in your units, the next step is to
options
class sign up sign up for your classes »» Enter your unit codes (do not put a space between the letters
»» Classes are the weekly timetabled activities for each unit, such and numbers) and select the correct option from the drop-
as lectures, workshops, tutorials, labs and seminars down list
»» Unlike unit enrolment, you can only sign up for classes one »» Click ‘generate timetable’
semester at a time »» The timetable will display all options for the class times. You
»» Class sign up normally opens one to two months before only need to choose one option for each class type. Use the
semester, and class times are selected on a on a ‘first come, toggle bar on the left to show and hide different class options
first served’ basis
»» If you are studying your units in ‘external’ mode, you can skip
this step, because all your work will be done online
02 Sign up for »» Go back to MyInfo goto.murdoch.edu.au/MyInfo
classes »» Click on the ‘class sign up’ button
»» Click on ‘add or change classes’
»» Select your lectures (note: most lectures are recorded if you
prefer to watch online. Please confirm with Unit Coordinator)
»» Select one option for each of your tutorials, workshops, labs
and/or seminars
»» Pay attention to the listed weeks for each unit. Some classes
are weekly, some are fortnightly and some are one-offs
»» Save your changes
»» You can click ‘view class timetable’ to see your weekly timetable
03 What if my »» If all the class options for a unit are showing as ‘full’, please
classes are contact the relevant Unit Coordinator to let them know
full, or I have a murdoch.edu.au/goto/UnitCoordinators
clash between »» If a class from a unit clashes with a class from another unit,
classes? you may consider:
»» Emailing the Unit Coordinator to explain the
circumstances and seek an alternative class
»» Reviewing your enrolment to see if you can change to
another unit - you could potentially study the clashing
unit in the following semester, if available
»» If one of the clashing classes is a lecture, you can
de-select the lecture and listen to the online lecture
recordings instead, if available
»» Consider changing the unit to external mode ‘X’,
if available
14 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 15
Pay or defer your tuition fees*
Tuition fees Student Services Amenities
Fee (SSAF)
Domestic students - Can I defer my
fees to a HECS-HELP loan? What is the SSAF?
»» You can choose to defer all or part »» The SSAF is a fee that goes towards
of your fees to HECS-HELP if you are student services of a non-academic
an Australian citizen, a Permanent nature. At Murdoch, the SSAF goes
Humanitarian Visa Holder, or New towards many important services on and
Zealand Citizen with a Special Category off campus including health, wellbeing,
Visa (SCV) who meets the HELP careers, financial and welfare support.
residency requirements, and meets the
»» You are required to pay the SSAF for
general eligibility criteria.
each teaching period you study. The
»» If eligible, you can obtain a HECS-HELP exact fee varies depending if you’re
loan through the ‘Commonwealth doing full-time or part-time study,
Assistance Form’ self-enrolment step in and your campus of study. Read
MyInfo (see page 10). more at murdoch.edu.au/study/fees-
»» If you have elected to make either a scholarships/other-fees
partial or a full upfront payment, or if
you’re not eligible to defer your fees, you Can I defer my SSAF?
must make your payment before census »» Yes, if you are an Australian Citizen, hold
date to avoid being excluded from your a Humanitarian Visa or New Zealand SCV
units. eligible, and are enrolled in a Bachelor or
Graduate course. Complete and submit
International Students the SA-HELP form in the self-enrolment
»» International student fees are due the steps in MyInfo (see page 10).
Friday before the start of the teaching
period. Students are required to make What if I am not eligible
payment on or before the due date. to defer my SSAF?
»» Students can view fee details and »» If you are not eligible to defer your
payment due dates via their fee invoice. SSAF, you need to pay your SSAF
This is available in MyInfo under the upfront before the due date. You do this
‘fees’ tab. through the Fee section in MyInfo. Click
‘view latest fee invoice’. You can make
payment online or at the Student Centre.
16 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 17
ORIENTATION WEE
Orientation week checklist 4. Familiarise yourself with
the campus
5. Get your books and
other resources
If you are studying on campus it is a good You can find a booklist for your units
idea to get familiar with the campus layout. on the Murdoch Bookshop website
1. Attend orientation 3. Obtain your It is also helpful to find where your classes murdoch.edu.au/Bookshop
activities student ID card will be held so you know exactly where to
»» You only need to purchase your books
Whether you’re starting undergraduate or Your student ID card is used for go on the first day of semester.
one semester at a time
postgraduate study, we have a range of identification purposes and access to »» Check out the campus tours running in »» Some items will be prescribed, while
orientation programs to help you settle. services, such as borrowing resources from Orientation Week others are just recommended
Orientation usually happens a week before the library. It may also be used for student
»» You can find a map of our campus online »» If you are looking to save money, check
semester starts and includes: discounts. To get a student ID card, you can:
at maps.murdoch.edu.au out the Guild’s Second Hand Bookshop.
»» ‘Living in Perth’ sessions for »» Pre-order online and collect on campus »» Room numbers are signified by three It is on campus in Building 490, or online
international students goto.murdoch.edu.au/IDCard numbers. The first number indicates the at murdochguildtextbooks.com.au
»» Informative course advice sessions »» Visit the library at the Perth or Mandurah building number, the second indicates »» If you are struggling with the cost
tailored for undergraduate students campuses with a valid form of ID the level of the building, and the third of books, the Guild also runs a Book
»» A professional orientation evening for (Australian driver’s licence or passport) number signifies the room. For example, Subsidy Scheme to support students
students starting postgraduate studies »» External students who are too far from room 450.2.021 means building 450, level experiencing financial hardship
campus can request a card using the 2, room 21. murdochguild.com.au/student-assist/
»» A range of fun activities and workshops to
meet new people and boost your form here our.murdoch.edu.au/OUA/_ book-subsidy-scheme
study skills document/Forms/idlibrarycard.pdf
»» Additional tailored orientation programs
for specialised degrees
»» Online resources for external students
Find more information online at murdoch.
edu.au/life-at-murdoch/campus-life-
culture/orientation
2. Explore the Learning
Management System
(LMS)
The Learning Management System (LMS),
sometimes referred to as ‘Moodle’, is the
online space where most of the materials
for your unit will be located.
»» You can access the LMS through
MyUnits goto.murdoch.edu.au/MyUnits
- click on the light blue pencil icon next to
each unit.
»» Note: the LMS for each unit will open the
MentorMe
week before semester starts. If you have Get advice from friendly, experienced mentor students by joining MentorMe.
only just enrolled in a unit, it can take Mentors catch-up with new students once a week during semester to share
up to 24 hours for the unit to appear in their advice on student life. Find out more at goto.murdoch.edu.au/MentorMe
MyUnits.
18 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 19
Week one checklist
1. Get prepared for classes 4. Check out the
Before your first class, access the LMS for UniEdge calendar
each unit (see page 16) and explore the ‘UniEdge’ is Murdoch’s support program
resources for your first class. In particular: for new students. Find out what events are
»» Check if your Unit Coordinator happening on campus and explore great
has posted anything in the online resources by visiting the UniEdge
announcements forum. website goto.murdoch.edu.au/uniedge
»» Locate the Unit Information and Learning
Guide (UILG) and save a copy so it is
easily accessible.
»» Within the UILG, read the study Get Free Software
schedule for the unit, including the
assessment dates. Microsoft Office 365
»» Check and complete the required Microsoft Office 365 is a full version of the
readings before the first class. Microsoft Office suite (including Word,
»» Some Unit Coordinators share the Powerpoint and Excel) and is available free
lecture slides early, so you can print of charge to all enrolled Murdoch University
a copy for notes. students. Each student is allowed to install
Microsoft Office on up to five devices
2. Participate in your (Windows, Mac, iPad, Android). For more
information, including how to get Office 365
classes for each unit ProPlus for free, visit goto.murdoch.edu.au/
It’s important to start the semester on GetOffice.
the right foot by not missing any classes.
The first week of classes provide a great Endnote
introduction to the unit, and a chance to EndNote is a bibliography citation
meet your peers. For external students, management software program, developed
ensure you are participating in the online by Thomson Reuters, that allows you to:
forums as needed, so you don’t fall behind. create a database of references; search
and download references from electronic
3. If available, enrol in databases and library catalogues; store
downloaded PDFs with their relevant
Peer Assisted Study references; insert in-text citations into your
Sessions (PASS) thesis, assignments, publications, etc.;
PASS is an optional additional support class generate bibliographies in specific styles;
available for select units, and is facilitated and share your library or group of references
by high-achieving 2nd, 3rd and 4th year with others. To download Endnote visit
students in your field of study. More libguides.murdoch.edu.au/EndNote
information about PASS is available online
our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-
successfully/PASS20 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 21
Transport to uni
Public transport (Transperth) Parking at Murdoch
University students studying full-time are There are a variety of parking options at
eligible for a concessional SmartRider card. Murdoch University. At the Perth campus,
Transperth accepts enrolment in at least 9 you may purchase an annual or semester
credit points per semester as proof of full- parking permit, purchase a day permit, or
time enrolment. A concessional SmartRider purchase a ticket from a ticket machine at
card gives discounted fees for travel on an hourly rate. Permits may be purchased
Transperth buses, trains and ferries in the from the Student Centre or online.
metropolitan area. our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-
organised/Getting-your-parking-permit/
SmartRider cards may be purchased from
the Student Guild Kiosk which is located in To find out more about parking at the
the Perth Campus Library. To register your Mandurah campus visit our.murdoch.edu.
Tertiary SmartRider login to MyInfo and au/Campus-and-Facilities-Management-
click on ‘Enrol’ then select ‘Services’. Office/Our-services/Parking-on-campus/
If you do not register your SmartRider, you Parking-permits-and-fees
are not eligible for a travel concession.
Your student card alone is not accepted.
ACROD
If you pay a concession fare without a
Tertiary SmartRider you face a $100 If you are the holder of an ACROD sticker
on-the-spot fine. you do not need to apply for a parking
permit. Please display your ACROD sticker
Students who are eligible for concession
when parking in any of the signed ACROD
and are enrolled at our Mandurah campus
bays across campus.
can purchase a new SmartRider over the
phone. Please call the Guild Kiosk on (08) To find out more about parking at Murdoch
9360 6776 and have your student number visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-
and a credit/debit card number handy. Your organised/Getting-your-parking-permit
card will then be posted out for collection
from the Mandurah Student Centre.
Cycling to Murdoch
For more information about Transperth
and Tertiary SmartRiders, please visit Ride your bike to university and secure it in
transperth.wa.gov.au/SmartRider/Types- our purpose-built bicycle lockers. To obtain
of-SmartRider a pin code for the lockers contact the
Student Centre. For full details, please go
MyAnswers (FAQ #806)
myanswers.custhelp.com/app/answers/
detail/a_id/806/kw/80622 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 23 Food and fun on campus Fun The Murdoch University Student Guild helps students get involved in campus life. You can join a club or society, work out at our sports centre, or have a drink with your friends at the tavern. Special events are also held on campus each year including Festival Day, Multicultural Day, and the Stamp Out Stress Day. To get involved, go to the Murdoch University Student Guild’s website at murdochguild.com.au Food There is also a variety of food options available on campus. At Perth campus you’ll find vibrant cafés and restaurants. You can grab a bite to eat from one of the daily local food trucks, or explore the brand new Student Hub with a range of choices. Mandurah and Rockingham campuses both have student cafés for coffee and snacks.
24 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 25
Learning expectations
Full-time or part-time studies Unit workload
At Murdoch, the normal full-time enrolment When planning your study schedule, you
is 12 credit points per semester, or 24 credit should allocate approximately 10 hours
points over a year. International students per week for each unit you study. These 10
studying under a student visa are required hours may include:
by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA)
»» Completing the required readings and
to study full-time so they complete their
preparing for classes
course within the CoE and visa length.
»» Going along to lectures or listening to
Domestic students have the option to lectures online
study part-time and enrol in as little as
»» Taking notes during the lecture and
one unit (2-3 credit points) per semester,
revising them after the lecture
as long as their course permits it. You can
check this under ‘duration’ in the course »» Attending and participating in classes (or
description in the Handbook in online forums)
handbook.murdoch.edu.au/ »» Completing assessments on LMS (such
as online quizzes)
Note: Centrelink and Transperth both
accept 9 credit points per semester »» Meeting up with other students to
as a ‘full-time’ load for benefits and discuss group projects
concession rates. »» Researching and writing assignments
»» Creating and practising
oral presentations
»» Studying for exams26 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 27
Enhancing your online Get fit physically and mentally Unit Information and Using the Library
learning experience Murdoch University’s Perth campus has a Learning Guides The Library is filled with useful resources
Whether you are studying internally or gym and offers social team sports. Students Each unit has a Unit Information and that are available to all students, which
externally, most of your unit resources can join the gym at a discounted rate. Daily Learning Guide (UILG) located on its allows you to:
and learning essentials are integrated into exercise is a fantastic way to clear your head LMS page. »» Access all the materials you need for
the Learning Management System (LMS). and stay healthy, and social sport is a great
UILGs are an excellent resource. Use your studies, including high demand
way to make friends. Visit the website to see
The following are some key things you them to form your study schedule and learning materials, unit readings, online
what’s on offer
can do to help you succeed in the online and plan ahead for a successful semester. journals, e-books and past exam papers
murdoch.edu.au/Murdoch-Sports
learning environment. Make sure you download and read each »» Access and borrow materials from
The Murdoch University Counselling Service guide thoroughly at the beginning of the other libraries
»» If you are listening to a lecture online, do has lots of information about taking care of semester. You will refer to them so »» Explore subject guides and receive
so without other distractions your mental health whilst studying, including often that you might like to consider assistance from Library staff
»» Print out a copy of the lecture slides and online resources and mindfulness apps. printing them.
write notes on them as you listen to the Visit the Counselling website at »» Learn APA, Chicago, MLA and other
lecture murdoch.edu.au/Counselling. UILGs contain everything you need to know referencing styles
about each unit, including: »» Access computers, internet, copying,
»» Be courteous when engaging with others
on LMS »» Names and contact details for the Unit scanning and printing
»» Engage and discuss ideas and topics Coordinator (and Unit Manager if it is a »» Access the 24/7 learning common area
with fellow students in the online forum large unit)
(don’t just put forward your own opinion, »» Names and contact details for tutors For more information on the Library, or to
try to engage with ideas from the »» Learning outcomes for the unit contact the Library, visit library.murdoch.
readings and lectures too) edu.au/
»» Assessment instructions and deadlines
»» Read important messages posted by (including allocated marks for each
your Unit Coordinator or tutor assessment)
LMS might look slightly different for each »» Policy regarding late submission of
unit depending on how Unit Coordinators assessments (including penalties)
have chosen to lay out their unit. Make sure »» An overview of each week’s topics
you have a good look at each unit’s LMS »» Information about your course materials
page to know what to look for when you and recommended readings
need it.
»» Information about the required
referencing style and academic conduct
»» Information about exams (if applicable).28 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 29
Assessments Support for students with a disability
and/or medical condition
If you have a disability and/or medical condition, you can apply for alternative
arrangements for assessments and exams. This will enable you to undertake
As a university student you are expected to complete one or assessments and exams on an equitable basis. To discuss and arrange support, contact
more assessments for each unit that you are enrolled in. These the Equity and Social Inclusion Office as soon as possible on (08) 9360 6084 or
can include, but are not limited to, online quizzes, essays, oral equity@murdoch.edu.au.
presentations, mid-semester tests, group projects, and portfolios.
Details and instructions for each assessment are outlined in
your Unit Information and Learning Guides. Make a note of the
assessment deadlines in your calendar and develop a plan to finish
your assessments before the due date. Submitting assessments Returning assessments
Directions on how to submit assessments Graded assessments are usually returned
Questions about assessments Support with assessments are provided in each Unit Information and to you no later than two weeks after
Learning Guide (UILG). For most units, submission. Understanding assessment
If you are having difficulty understanding The Support for Learning (SFL) team assessments are submitted electronically feedback is very important as it will
or completing an assessment, your tutor offers help with assessments, including through the Learning Management System highlight what you did well and how you
should be your first point of contact. literacy, numeracy and English support. In (LMS). can improve.
Your Unit Coordinator should be the next addition to one-on-one support from Peer
person you speak to if your tutor cannot Academic Coaches (PACs) and learning The UILG will outline the fine details Sometimes it is difficult to take on
answer your specific question. Additional consultants, SFL also offers workshops for submitting assessments, including feedback, especially if you didn’t do as
info about tutors and Unit Coordinators is on a variety of topics including academic cover sheets, plagiarism checks and late well as expected. If after a few days, and
available on page 42. writing, referencing, oral presentations, penalties. Late submissions normally have after re-reading the feedback, you would
mathematics and statistics. Support is marks deducted per day overdue, and like some further explanation about your
available on and off campus. Find out more some units require that all assessments be marks, ask your tutor for some time to
Academic integrity
online at our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/ submitted in order to pass the unit. discuss your assignment and the feedback.
Murdoch University is an academic Study-successfully
If you are unable to submit an assessment If your tutor suggests you need to improve
community based on trust, fairness and
due to unforeseen circumstances such specific academic skills, the Support for
honesty, and you are required to respect
as illness, you should contact your tutor Learning (SFL) team can help. See page 34
these values in all of your work by following
as soon as possible. You will need to for more information.
the rules of academic integrity. Visit the
provide supporting documentation, such
website for more information our.murdoch.
as a medical certificate or letter from a
edu.au/Educational-technologies/
counsellor, to be granted an extension.
Academic-integrity30 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 31
Exams Items allowed in the exam If you are sick on the day of the exam and
Some units allow students to bring unable to sit the exam, you should visit a
additional materials such as dictionaries, doctor and obtain a medical certificate and
textbooks, notes, or calculators into the apply for deferred assessment. You have up
exam. This information will be listed in to three (3) working days after the exam to
General information Read and practise past
your Unit Information and Learning Guides lodge an application, including supporting
about exams exam papers documentation, to the Exams Office.
as well as on the exam timetable. A clear
Past exam papers (where released by water bottle with all labels removed is
Many units at Murdoch require students to the School) for the previous five years
sit a final exam at the end of each semester. allowed. Make sure you arrive at the venue Exam results
are available online library.murdoch.edu. at least 15 minutes before the official start
Exams occur during weeks 16 and 17 of au/Borrowing-and-access/Search-and- Exam results are incorporated into the
each semester, and each exam may run for time. You will need to bring a valid form
browse-resources/Exam-papers of ID (Murdoch student ID card, driver’s overall grade of the unit. Final grades
2-3 hours. The exact weighting for each for all units can be accessed in MyInfo.
exam will be detailed in the Unit Learning Ask your tutor or Unit Coordinator if the license or valid passport) to be admitted
into the exam venue. Leave your valuables Exam papers are not typically returned
and Information Guide. Some units require upcoming exam will be similar to previous to students, however students may
students to pass the final exam in order to exams. If so, you may also want to practise at home. Turn off your mobile phone and
leave it in your bag. request to see their exam paper. To
pass the unit. completing the past paper in exam access an exam paper, contact your Unit
conditions - see how you go! Coordinator and make an appointment
Exam timetable Find out about exam anxiety and how to Feeling unwell during the exam within 10 university business days
use nervous energy to your advantage If you commence an exam but cannot from the release of results. For more
The exam timetable is posted online and on information about exams, visit the Exams
on the Getting through Exams fact sheet complete it due to ill health or other factors,
noticeboards on each campus. Semester website at our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-
murdoch.edu.au/Counselling/Find-out- you can apply to defer the exam if you
timetables are released in Week 9; trimester life/Get-organised/About-exams/
about...You may also like to attend the report your illness to the exam supervisor.
weeks 7-8; and summer and winter units
Exam Success workshops offered through
in weeks 3-4. The timetable will contain If you are on campus, a University Nurse or
UniEdge.
details such as exam dates, times, and Security Officer will attend the exam venue
locations. Students may search for the and provide a certificate confirming your
exam timetable online at murdoch.edu.au/ Exam anxiety inability to complete the exam.
admin/timetables/exams/.
If you suffer with exam anxiety, help
You may submit an application to defer the
is available. Our Counselling Service
exam with a supporting medical certificate
Preparing for exams provided one-on-one support and many
(which must be issued on the day of the
online resources to help you maximise
exam) within three (3) university
Revision exam success. Check them out online at
business days.
»» Familiarise yourself with the learning murdoch.edu.au/Counselling/Find-out-
outcomes for each unit. about...
»» Make thorough notes all semester, and
condense key ideas
»» Revise key ideas
»» Revise information from presentations
and lectures
»» Develop revision aids according to
your learning style. For example, visual
learners may wish to draw pictures to
illustrate key ideas32 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 33
Support Services
Murdoch University has many dedicated teams who provide
tailored support to all students, including support for
external and postgraduate students. It is important to ask for
assistance if you need help with any aspect of your studies,
and it is always best to ask for help early.
General queries
The Student Centre Special Programs: Elite Athlete
Best for: general questions regarding and Defence Force
enrolment, fees, parking and more. Best for: specialised study support for
How to contact: Drop by the Student Centre students who are elite athletes and defence
on campus, call 1300 Murdoch (1300 687 force personnel.
3624) or email studentcentre@murdoch. How to contact: email specialprograms@
edu.au murdoch.edu.au or visit the website for
more information our.murdoch.edu.au/
Student Success Advisors Student-life/My-First-Year/Support-
Services/Special-Programs
Best for: friendly, one-on-one support for
academic and personal wellbeing support -
a great place to start when you’re not sure IT Support
where to go or you need someone to listen. Best for: issues with your student ID card,
How to contact: Student Success Advisors trouble logging into your online account,
are located across the university, visit the problems with online lectures in ECHO360
website for contact details goto.murdoch. or the Learning Management System (LMS)
edu.au/StudentAdvisors How to contact: visit the IT service desk in
the Perth campus library, call (08) 9360
International Student Support 2000 or lodge a query online murdochuni.
service-now.com/its
Best for: tailored support for studies as
an international student, including cultural
support, academic guidance, questions
about visa conditions and more. One-on-one
support is available.
How to contact: StudentSupport@
murdoch.edu.au34 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 35
Academic and career Health, equity and wellbeing
Support for Learning (SFL) The Library Equity and Social Inclusion Counselling Service
Best for: learning support to build academic Best for: sourcing useful resources such as Best for: support for students with disabilities Best for: support with mental health,
skills such as time management, essay books and journals for your studies, getting and/or medical conditions, as well as support wellbeing, motivation and resilience.
writing, referencing, maths, statistics and support with research, as well as being a for students who are carers. Students can Students can access confidential
great space for silent or group study. gain an Equity Quality Assisted Learning appointments with accredited psychologists
English language support. SFL offer one-
(EQAL) support plan to enable equitable and counsellors, either on campus or over
on-one consultations, group workshops and How to contact: Visit in person or go to the
access to study. the phone.
online resources. website for resources and to ask a librarian
a question www.murdoch.edu.au/library/ How to contact: make an appointment as Contact us: call (08) 9360 1227, email
How to contact: call (08) 9360 2142 or visit
help-support/ask-our-librarians early in the semester as possible by calling
the website to book a consultation and view CounsellingService@murdoch.edu.au or
resources our.murdoch.edu.au/Studentlife/ (08) 9360 6084 or emailing equity@ visit online to view many great resources
Study-successfully/Seeing-someonefor- Careers and murdoch.edu.au www.murdoch.edu.au/Counselling
help Employment Centre
Best for: enhancing your employability ALLY Medical Service
Peer Assisted Study Sessions through career advice such as help with job Best for: information and support for queries Best for: confidential, high-quality medical
(PASS) applications, interview skills, gaining work related to sexual orientation and gender consultations from qualified and experienced
experience and more. identity at the university. doctors and nurses, usually with no out-of-
Best for: group study support for
traditionally difficult units. Ran as weekly How to contact: call (08) 9360 2596, email pocket expense for students.
How to contact: Through the Equity
50-minute sessions, led by students who careers@murdoch.edu.au or visit the Career and Social Inclusion office (above). More How to contact: Call (08) 9360 2293 or
have achieved high grades in the unit. Connect portal online www.murdoch.edu. information available at goto.murdoch.edu. visit the website to book online and view
au/Careers-and-employment-centre au/Ally resources www.murdoch.edu.au/Medical/
For more information: visit our.murdoch.
edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/ Making-anappointment
Also check out: the Murdoch Queer
PASS Collective facebook.com/murdochqc
Student Financial Support
Peer Academic Coaches (PAC) Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre Office
Best for: friendly, drop-in academic Best for: academic and cultural support and Best for: financial support and scholarship
assistance - no appointment necessary! community for students Aboriginal and advice for students – there are so many
scholarships on offer!
Great for when you need some quick Torres Strait Islander students, including
academic help on short notice. tutoring and mentorship opportunities. How to contact: call (08) 9360 2733, email
scholarships@murdoch.edu.au or browse
How to contact: drop-in on campus How to contact: Visit on Perth campus, online at our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/
or online, view the schedule online at Building 490, call (08) 9360 2128, email Finances
our.murdoch.edu.au/Studentlife/ Kulbardi@murdoch.edu.au or visit the
Studysuccessfully/Peer-Academic- website murdoch.edu.au/Kulbardi
Coaches Student Guild
Best for: student advocacy, including
emergency welfare support and help with
academic processes such as appeals, as well
as lots of awesome initiatives such as student
clubs and societies, student events and
representing the student voice on campus.
How to contact: call (08) 9360 2158, email
contact@the-guild.com.au or go online at
murdochguild.com.au36 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 37
Additional information for
external students
Students studying externally do not attend classes on campus.
Instead, teaching and discussion with other students occurs
through the online Learning Management System (LMS).
Benefits of studying externally Access to the internet
Studying externally (online) provides a All students, regardless of their location
more flexible mode of learning. Students or mode of study, will need access to a
have the benefit of listening to lectures, computer with internet browsing capability
engaging in discussion with other students, and a connection to the internet via
and studying at a time that suits them. broadband (cable, ADSL or mobile)
Studying externally suits students who may or wireless.
live remotely, have chronic disabilities, and/
The internet connection should be readily
or have work commitments, families, or
available and allow large amounts of
other responsibilities. Students can choose
data to be streamed or downloaded
to study all of their units online, or study a
(approximately 100MB per lecture
mixture of internal and external units in the
recording). Students also need to be able
same semester.
to enter into online discussions and submit
Students who study externally and live assignments online.
nearby are welcome to attend lectures
and events on campus. If you would Using the Library
like to attend other classes, you need to
contact your Unit Coordinator to seek their As an external student at Murdoch
permission. You can find their details in University, you are eligible to use:
your Unit Information and Learning Guide
»» Findit - Search and access online books
on the LMS.
and journal articles
It is important to keep in mind that »» Databases - Find subject-specific
studying externally is just as demanding journals and articles
as studying on campus. Internal and
»» My Unit Readings - Access your unit
external students generally have the
readings
same assessments, so you will need to be
organised, self-motivated, and disciplined. »» Ask A Librarian - For help with
your research.
As your life circumstances change, you
can also change your mode of study each To find more information about using the
semester. You can change from internal library as an external student, visit
(D) to external (X) mode via the Enrolment library.murdoch.edu.au/Students/External-
Steps within MyInfo until the end of week students
two. If you would like to change your mode
of study after week two, you must obtain
approval from the Unit Coordinator.38 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 39
Additional information for
external students (continued)
Exams
If you are enrolled externally, your exam location is determined by your postal address. If you do
not reside at your postal address, please email the Exams Office at exams@murdoch.edu.au with
your new location before the end of week 12 for normal semester exams, or at least 10 business
days prior to the start of the exam period for all other exam periods.
Requests received after the deadline will not be accepted.
Postal address and distance from campus Exam Location
Less than 100 kms from campus On campus
More than 100 kms from campus Exam Centre
More than 100kms from Nominated Supervisor
Australian exam centre
On-campus intensives On-campus accommodation
For some units, particularly science units, for short-term stays
More than 300kms from Nominated Supervisor
external students must attend compulsory The Murdoch University Village provides
Overseas exam Centre
on-campus laboratory sessions or affordable self-catered accommodation
placements. These labs are ‘intensive’ for short stays, which is a great option if
over two to four days, or up to two weeks you need to stay close to Perth campus for
You can find more information about Exam Centres and nominating supervisors on the
depending on the unit. During this time, your intensive study component.
External Exams webpage our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-organised/About-exams/
you are expected to come to Perth and Visit their website for more information
External-exams
study on campus. www.mystudentvillage.com/au/murdoch-
Certain units may also require you to university-village/short-stays
attend practicums on campus or at another
location, undertake work experience,
conduct research, or complete fieldwork.
It is important to plan ahead if your units
have intensives. Lock these dates in your
schedule so you can organise things such
as time off work and transport ahead
of time.
For more information about on-campus
intensive components, refer to the
Handbook under the ‘timetabled learning
activities’ or contact the Unit Coordinator.40 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 41
Additional information for
postgraduate students
Postgraduate study requires specialised support, and Murdoch
University offers specialised support to help students advance
their academic and research skills.
Support for Learning (SFL) Guild Postgraduate Student
The SFL team offer a suite of postgraduate Assist Officer
support, especially for students with The Guild has a dedicated Postgraduate
English as a second language. This Assist officer who provides advice and
support includes individual consultations, advocacy to all postgraduate students on
postgraduate writing sessions, GREAT academic policies, procedures and disputes
(Graduate Research, Education and including appeals, re-marking, deferred/
Training) seminars, the Flying Start supplementary assessment, retrospective
program for beginning researchers and withdrawal, academic/research
the unit ‘TLC501 Communication skills for misconduct, research ethics, candidature
postgraduate study’. Find out more on the issues and supervisor problems.
website our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/ Assistance in the search for scholarships
Study-successfully/Postgraduate-Students is also available.
Email Postgrad.assist@the-guild.com.au
Murdoch University
Postgraduate Student
Association (MUPSA)
The Murdoch University Postgraduate
Student Association (MUPSA) is an
association of the Murdoch University
Guild of Students. MUPSA is dedicated to
representing postgraduates, their needs
and their interests on campus. More
information about MUPSA services can be
found at our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/
Join-in/Clubs-and-societies/MUPSA42 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 43
Uni speak
Below you can find a list of the key terms and definitions
you will need to know as a Murdoch student.
Useful people
Academic Chair Unit Coordinator
Academic Chairs are senior academics Unit Coordinators are responsible for the
who are responsible for a particular course, design and delivery of a specific unit. They
major, co-major or minor. They can provide manage the content and assessments
detailed course advice and may approve in the unit(s) they coordinate. Your Unit
course variations, late enrolment into units, Coordinator is often your lecturer and on
and course transfer applications. It is a good occasion, may also be your tutor.
idea to get to know your Academic Chair;
If you have questions about the content or
they can often provide career advice and
assessments in your units, or need approval
may even introduce you to networks in
for late enrolment into a unit, you can
your field of study. Contact your Academic
contact your Unit Coordinator by email. If
Chair by email goto.murdoch.edu.au/
you have an issue with the unit or your tutor,
AcademicContacts
you are welcome to discuss this with the Unit
Coordinator. To find your Unit Coordinator’s
Tutor contact details, look in your Unit Guide or
Tutors facilitate classes (workshops, tutorials type in the unit code in the online Handbook.
and/or labs) and provide guidance on your
assignments. Your tutor is your first point of Supervisor
contact for any questions you have about
Students enrolled in courses with a research
the unit. They also mark your assessments.
component will be assigned a supervisor.
You will be assigned a tutor for each unit
Your supervisor will typically specialise
you are enrolled in, regardless of whether
in an area related to your research. They
you are enrolled internally or externally.
normally approve your topic, and support
Your tutor will provide their contact details
your research. Honours students normally
usually during the first class. If you are going
arrange their own supervisor before
to be absent or late for a class, please email
studies begin. For more information about
your tutor to let them know. If you do not
Honours, visit handbook.murdoch.edu.au/
know who your tutor is, or do not have
study/?section=2c_honours
their contact details, you may contact the
Unit Coordinator.44 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 45
Course components
Career Learning Spine Majors Second Majors
The Career Learning Spine forms part of the A major is a set of units that students study Within many degree courses it is possible
curriculum in our undergraduate degrees. to gain specialised in-depth knowledge to study a second major, which may be
It provides learning opportunities and real in an area related to their degree. A major complementary to the degree. For example,
world experiences tailored to the area of is recorded on the Degree Testamur. For a student studying a Bachelor of Creative
study to ensure graduates have the skills and example, within a Bachelor of Science a Media may choose to study a major in
attributes employers are looking for. student may choose to study a major in Screen Production and an additional related
Biological Sciences and be awarded a major in Sound and be awarded a Bachelor
Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences). of Creative Media (Screen Production and
Co-Majors
Sound). In some instances, choosing to
A co-major is a set of units which students study a second major may increase the time
Minors
study to gain specialised knowledge with required to complete the degree course. It
less depth than a major. Only one co-major A minor is a small set of units which students is important when choosing to complete a
may be studied in a degree course. A study to gain specialised knowledge second major, that you discuss a study plan
co-major is recorded on the Academic with less depth than a major or co-major. with the Academic Chair of the course.
Transcript but not the degree testamur. To Up to two minors may be recorded on
add a second major, co-major or minor, ask a the academic transcript. Students may Prerequisite Units
question through MyAnswers. choose to study minors that are related,
or complementary to a chosen major. For These are units that you must successfully
example, a student may choose to study complete prior to enrolling in a subsequent
Course Core
a major in Sound and a related minor in unit. For example, BIO246 Microbiology
A course core is a set of units which all Radio or a major in Sound and an unrelated has BIO152 Cell Biology as a prerequisite;
students studying a particular degree course minor in Sustainable Development. To add therefore, a student must successfully
must successfully complete. They provide a second major, co-major or minor, ask a complete BIO152 before enrolling in
the opportunity to master fundamental question through MyAnswers.
BIO246. To add a second major, co-major or
disciplinary knowledge, learn how to think
minor, ask a question through MyAnswers.
critically about key issues and engage with
Required, Specified and
important research.
General units Units
Degree Within a course each unit is either a ‘required A unit is an individual subject that is studied
unit’, ‘specified elective’ or ‘general elective’. within a course. Each unit has a code and a
A degree is a qualification awarded by a Required units are compulsory units that name. For example, PSY101 Introduction to
university. There are two types of degrees, must be successfully completed prior to Cultural Psychology. Most units are worth
undergraduate and graduate. Undergraduate graduation in that course. Specified elective three credit points. Full-time students
degrees, also known as Bachelor degrees, units are offered as a list from which a typically complete four units (12 credit
typically require a minimum of three or four specified number must be successfully points) each semester while part-time
years of full-time study. Combined degrees, completed prior to graduation in that course. students complete less.
where two Bachelor degrees are studied General elective units are all remaining units
concurrently, may take up to five years of that are not nominated as either required
full-time study. Graduate degrees, which or specified electives. You may use general
include Graduate Certificates, Graduate electives to help you complete the total
Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral degrees, number of credit points required for your
may require as little as one year or as much course (e.g. 72 credit points are required for
as four years of full-time study, usually in a three year undergraduate degree).
addition to the completion of a Bachelor
degree or equivalent professional experience.46 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 MURDOCH NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2019 47
Study slang
Echo360 MyAnswers My Unit Readings Teaching Periods
Echo360 (sometimes called the Lecture MyAnswers is an enquiry tool that can My Unit Readings is your gateway to Murdoch University runs according to an
Capture System – LCS) contains recordings assist you to find information and send accessing essential and recommended academic calendar that divides the year into
of your lectures, and is accessible through requests about all things related to university readings for your units. teaching periods. The most common teaching
LMS. You can stream audio or video administration. The ‘ask a question’ function periods are semester one (S1) and semester
recordings with a live internet connection, or is especially helpful for study questions and Peer Academic Coaches (PACs) two (S2) and the summer and winter. Most
you can download them to your computer sending requests about your enrolment courses run units in S1 and S2, however
or tablet to watch later. Recordings are myanswers.custhelp.com Peer Academic Coaches (PACs) are friendly, as some courses and units have different
usually available on LMS within 24 hours of high-achieving students who offer drop-in teaching periods students need to take care
being recorded. Myfeedback support with anything academic. Find the to check the teaching period for each unit
PAC schedule on the webpage our.murdoch. when enrolling. A full list of teaching periods
Myfeedback is the way you can have edu.au/Studentlife/Studysuccessfully/Peer-
Learning Management System can be found online handbook.murdoch.edu.
your say about the units you study - what Academic-Coaches au/dates/teaching_periods
(LMS) you liked about them and what needs to
improve. You will receive an email when Peer Assisted Study Sessions
The Learning Management System
Myfeedback is open and then you log in to
User name and MAIS password
(LMS), sometimes referred to as Moodle, (PASS)
is your online virtual classroom. You will complete the unit and teaching surveys. Logging into the Murdoch system MyInfo
access this almost every day. Accessible Your feedback is used to improve the quality Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) are requires a username and MAIS password.
through MyUnits, LMS contains important of the learning experience for you and group study sessions for traditionally difficult Your username is your student number.
information and helps guide you through the your peers. units. Ran as weekly 50-minute sessions, led
Make sure you keep a record of your
units you are studying during the semester. by students who have achieved high grades
password somewhere, and do not share
Unit Information and Learning Guides, MyInfo in the unit. Visit the website to find out more
it with anyone. If you need help with your
lecture recordings, lecture slides, a discussion our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-
MyInfo is the online student portal where password go to our.murdoch.edu.au/IT/Get-
forum, and other electronic resources (such successfully/PASS
you can access and modify all of your help-with-IT/Student-support
as reading materials) are located in LMS.
information related to enrolments and fees.
You can update your contact details, enrol
Modes of Study in and change your units, sign-up for classes
You can study in a mode that is either (tutorials, workshops and labs), change
internal, external or a combination of both between internal and external study mode,
(studying in fully external mode is not register your Transperth Tertiary SmartRider,
available to international students). The check your unit results at the end of each
internal mode (D) allows students to study semester, pay your fees and more.
the unit on campus with the added benefit
of face-to-face lectures, workshops, tutorials, MyMurdoch
and/or laboratory sessions.
MyMurdoch is your gateway to accessing
The external mode (X) allows students to online resources available to you as a
study the unit off campus with the added Murdoch student. Through MyMurdoch
benefit of being able to study when and you have access to MyInfo, MyUnits
where time is available. By choosing to and MyAnswers. Check out the video
study some units internally and some units presentation providing a complete overview
externally, students can tailor their study to of all Murdoch’s online portals. echo360.org.
meet their lifestyle. au/media/20987999-b67a-4ad8-92b5-
5970ec41ab96/publicYou can also read
