Murdoch New Student Guide - Murdoch University
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2018
Murdoch New
Student Guide
Contents Get Ready for University 03 Understand your Degree and Course 04 Enrol in Units and Classes 05 Pay or Defer your Tuition Fees 08 Orientation Week Checklist 09 Week One Checklist 11 Transport to Uni 12 Learning Expectations 14 Assessments 17 Exams 19 Support Services 21 Additional Information for External Students 28 Additional Information for Postgraduate Students 31 Uni Speak 32 Important Dates 38 Important Contact Details 39 Getting Help from Family and Friends 41
01
02
Congratulations
and welcome to
Murdoch University
To make your transition to university as easy as possible,
we have created this Student Guide to give you insider’s
advice on how to be a successful student.
Whether you are going back 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
How to get help should you need it
Description 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.
03
Get Ready for University
Are you ready for University?
Complete the ‘Are you ready for university?’ self-assessment tool to prepare you for your
studies. This survey will be emailed to you before semester begins. Upon completion,
you will be sent a personalised plan based on your responses. The personalised plan will
contain helpful information and guidance, including:
»» Additional resources you need to study successfully
»» A recommendation of an achievable study load in consideration of your other commitments
»» An identification of your individual strengths and weaknesses
»» An idea of the required commitment, time, organisational skills, and resilience needed for university
»» How to get help and support should you need it
Second-hand bookshop
The Student Guild runs a second-
hand bookshop on campus where
you can buy good quality textbooks
for less than the Murdoch University
Bookshop. If you are looking to save
money, it is usually a good idea to see
if the books you need are available
at the second-hand bookshop
first. You can find the second-
hand bookshop on-campus in the
Amenities Building, or you can see a
list of second-hand books online at
murdochguildtextbooks.com.au/
04
Understand your
Degree and Course
Course Structure
Murdoch University offers courses that lead to the award of a single undergraduate or graduate
degree; two separate undergraduate degrees (combined degree); or two related degrees where one
is undergraduate level and the other is graduate (integrated course).
All Murdoch University courses are designed by combining a selection of components: Career
Learning (Course Spine), Course Core, Majors, Co-Majors, Minors and General Electives. Courses also
require the completion of a certain number of total credit points. For example, a three-year Bachelor
degree requires the completion of 72 credit points, while a four-year Bachelor degree requires 96
points. See page 32 for a list of key university terms and definitions.
Murdoch University Handbook
The Murdoch University Handbook is the official source of information about the University,
its Degrees and Courses. You can access the Handbook online via handbook.murdoch.edu.au/.
See page 32 for a list of key university terms and definitions.
05
Enrol in Units and Classes
Before you begin your studies in week one, you will need to go online to prepare your
timetable, enrol in units, and sign-up for classes. We have a video that will take you
through each step of this enrolment process. Check it out on our website our.murdoch.
edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/Get-started-at-Murdoch/Enrol/ or follow the written
instructions below.
1) Complete the Self Enrolment Steps
To do Session
Log into MyInfo goto.murdoch.edu.au/MyInfo
Enrol Click on ‘Enrol’ and follow the steps in order
Disclaimer Fill in the ‘Disclaimer’
Services Fill in the ‘Services’ section
Statistics Fill in the ‘Statistics’ section
Course completion date Estimate your course completion date
Fill in the ‘Commonwealth Assistance Form’
Commonwealth Assistance Form
You will need your TAX File number
Request SA-HELP Assistance. You will need your
SA Help
TAX file number
06
2) Select units and prepare your timetable
To do
01 Handbook »» Research the units you are required to study by looking at the
course structure in the Online Course Handbook handbook.
murdoch.edu.au/
»» Enter the name of your major in the ‘title’ bar
(e.g. Philosophy)
»» Make sure you choose the correct course code
»» Select the newest course by year
»» Click on the tab ‘course structure’
»» You will see the full list of units for your course
02 Check what activities »» Click on the unit code listed in the course structure
are required for »» Look at ‘Unit Learning Experiences’ to see how many lectures
each unit and tutorials (workshops or labs) you need to go to
»» Repeat Step 2 for each unit you plan to enrol in
03 Check your timetable »» You can check your timetable to see if there are any clashes
between the lectures and tutorials you want to enrol in.
»» Go to timetables.murdoch.edu.au/teaching/
»» Select the semester you are checking (S1 or S2)
»» Select units by typing in the unit codes (do not put a space
between the letters and numbers)
»» Generate timetable
07
3) Enrol in units and sign up for classes
To do Session
01 MyInfo Log on to MyInfo goto.murdoch.edu.au/MyInfo
02 Enrol Click on ‘Enrol’
03 Units Click on ‘Units’
04 Search for the »» Type the unit code in the search bar (don’t put a space between the
unit you want letters and numbers)
to enrol in »» Click on ‘search’
05 Select the unit Select the version of the unit you would like to study by ticking the
you would like ‘ADD’ box. Be careful to choose the version you want
to enrol in »» S1 = Semester 1, S2 = Semester 2
»» D = study internally (on campus), X = study externally (online)
»» Click on ‘Add Selected Units’
»» Click on ‘Save Changes’
06 Class sign up* »» Go back to MyInfo
»» Click on the box called ‘Class Sign Up’
»» Go to ‘Add or Change Classes’
»» Select Lectures
»» Select Tutorials, workshops or labs
»» Save the changes
»» You may ‘View Class Timetable’ to see your weekly timetable
*Class Signups normally open in late-January for Semester 1 units, and in early June for Semester 2 units.
08
Pay or Defer your Tuition Fees*
Tuition Fees
If you are an Australian citizen, a Permanent Humanitarian Visa Holder, or New Zealand Citizen with
a Special Category Visa (SCV) who meets the HELP residency requirements, and meets the general
eligibility criteria, you can choose to defer all or part of your fees to HECS-HELP. It is important that
you provide your Tax File Number (TFN) to the university to be able to defer your fees. If you have
elected to make either a partial or a full upfront payment, you must do so by the census date. If you
do not pay, you risk being excluded from your units.
If you are a domestic full-fee paying student, and not eligible to defer your fees, you must make your
payment by the tuition census date.
International student fees are due the Friday before the start of the teaching period. Students are
required to make payment on or before the due date.
Students can view fee details and payment due dates via their Fee Invoice. This is available in MyInfo
under the ‘Fees’ tab.
Student Services Amenities Fee (SSAF)
The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) is a compulsory fee that all universities and other
higher education providers charge students for services and amenities of a non-academic nature.
This includes things such as sporting and recreational activities, employment and career advice,
counselling, financial advice and food services on campus.
You are required to pay the compulsory SSAF for each teaching period of enrolment. The exact fee
varies according to the type of enrolment you have (i.e. full-time or full-time study). Eligible domestic
students may be able to defer their SSAF payments to SA-HELP online via MyInfo. If you do not pay
or defer your SSAF, you risk an encumbrance on your student record. You can read more about your
payment options here our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-organised/About-your-fees/How-to-
pay-fees/
For more information about fees, visit the Handbook handbook.murdoch.edu.au/
* The information in the Pay or Defer your Tuition Fees section is subject to change as Australian legislation changes.
Please see studyassist.gov.au for the most up to date information.09
Orientation Week Checklist
1. Attend Orientation Activities
Student Advisors from each School deliver a Course Advice Session specifically designed to meet
your needs. During this session you will meet your Academics, learn more about your course, the
support services available at Murdoch University, and gain advice to help you settle in.
In addition to your Course Advice Session, there are a number of programs to get ahead. Attend one
or more of our programs to get ahead during Orientation Week to:
»» refresh your knowledge on key maths concepts,
»» learn how to write academically at university,
»» master how to study in an online environment
»» acquire techniques to help you balance the stresses of being a university student
To find out more about orientation, visit the Orientation week website at our.murdoch.edu.au/
Student-life/My-First-Year/Orientation/
2. Log-on to the Learning Management System (LMS)
Login to LMS and familiarise yourself with the information for each unit you are enrolled in.
LMS is where most of the materials for your unit will be saved. You can also find Unit Information
and Learning Guides on LMS, which contains details about the unit and of all of your assessments
and their due dates. You are responsible for your own learning at university. This includes attending
lectures, completing your assigned readings, preparing for tutorials, managing your time, and
submitting all of your assignments on- time. No-one will keep on top of this for you!
Log-on to MyMurdoch using your MAIS account my.murdoch.edu.au/students/home,
click MyUnits and you will be directed to the LMS.
3. Obtain your Student ID Card
Your Student ID Card also serves as a library card. You will need it to borrow resources from the
library, for printing, and as proof of your identification during exams. It may also be used for student
discounts. To get a student ID card, you can:
Order it online and pick it up the next time you are on campus
our.murdoch.edu.au/IT/Access-and-passwords/Identification-card/Pre-order-your-ID-Card/
OR
Go to the library at the South Street or Mandurah campuses with a valid form of ID
(Australian driver’s licence or passport)
South Street campus - The Library, IT Service Counter, Level 3, North Wing
Mandurah campus - Library Desk, Learning Common Room10
4. Familiarise yourself with the campus
Campus tours are run throughout orientation so you can familiarise yourself with important places
on-campus such as The Student Centre, the Library and the Bookshop. It is also helpful to find where
your classes will be held so you know where you exactly where go on the first day of semester.
You can find a map of our campus online at maps.murdoch.edu.au.
5. Get your books and other materials for your first semester
Most units have resources that you are required to purchase including books, unit readers, lab coats,
calculators, and uniforms. You can find a complete list of these materials (including prices and details
on how to order online) by typing each unit code into the Bookshop website at our.murdoch.edu.au/
Bookshop/Booklist/.
Update your personal details online
Ensure that all of your contact details are up-to-date. You can do this by logging
into MyInfo: https://mais.murdoch.edu.au/login
You can also update your Gender (i.e. F/M/X) and title (i.e. Mr/ Miss/Ms/Mx/etc.) by
going to MyAnswers > ‘Ask a Question’. You can access MyAnswers via
myanswers.custhelp.com/11
Week One Checklist
1. Log on to the Learning Management System (LMS) for each unit
Print out a copy of the PowerPoint slides that will be used in week one and bring these to your first
lecture. Be sure to complete any required readings or activities for week one. Also read any important
announcements from the Unit Coordinator. These will be visible upon logging into to each unit’s
LMS page.
2. Attend your first week of lectures/classes for each unit you are
enrolled in
3. Enrol in Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)
PASS is available for select units, and is facilitated by high-achieving 2nd, 3rd and 4th year students
in your field of study. More information about PASS is available online our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-
life/Study-successfully/PASS/ Transport to Uni
Get Free Software
Microsoft Office 365
Microsoft Office 365 is a full version of the Microsoft Office suite (including Word, Powerpoint and
Excel) and is available free of charge to all enrolled Murdoch University students. Each student is
allowed to install Microsoft Office on up to five devices (Windows, Mac, iPad, Android). For more
information, including how to get Office 365 ProPlus for free, see MyAnswers.
Endnote
EndNote is a bibliography citation management software program, developed by Thomson
Reuters, that allows you to: create a database of references; search and download references from
electronic databases and library catalogues; store downloaded PDFs with their relevant references;
insert in-text citations into your thesis, assignments, publications, etc.; generate bibliographies in
specific styles; and share your library or group of references with others. To download Endnote visit
libguides.murdoch.edu.au/EndNote12
Transport to Uni
Transperth Tertiary SmartRider
University students studying full-time are eligible for a concessional SmartRider card. Transperth
accepts enrolment in at least 9 credit points per semester as proof of full-time enrolment. A
concessional SmartRider card gives discounted fees for travel on Transperth buses, trains and ferries
in the metropolitan area.
SmartRider cards may be purchased from the Student Guild Kiosk which is located in the South Street
Campus Library. To register your Tertiary SmartRider login to MyInfo and click on ‘Enrol’ then select
‘Services’. If you do not register your SmartRider, you are not eligible for a travel concession. Your
student card alone is not accepted. If you pay a concession fare without a Tertiary SmartRider you
face a $100 on the spot fine.
Students who are eligible for concession and are enrolled at our Mandurah campus can purchase a
new SmartRider over the phone. Please call the Guild Kiosk on (08) 9360 6776 and have your student
number and a credit/debit card number handy. Your card will then be posted out for collection from
the Mandurah Student Centre. For more information about Transperth and Tertiary SmartRiders,
please visit transperth.wa.gov.au/SmartRider/Types-of-SmartRider
Parking at Murdoch
There are a variety of parking options at Murdoch University. At the South Street Campus, you may
purchase an annual or semester parking permit, purchase a day permit, or purchase a ticket from a
ticket machine at an hourly rate. Permits may be purchased from the Student Centre or online.
our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-organised/Getting-your-parking-permit/
To find out more about parking at the Mandurah Campus visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Campus-and-
Facilities-Management-Office/Our-services/Parking-on-campus/Parking-permits-and-fees/
ACROD
If you are the holder of an ACROD sticker you do not need to apply for a parking permit. Please
display your ACROD sticker when parking in any of the signed ACROD bays across campus.
To find out more about parking at Murdoch visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-organised/
Getting-your-parking-permit/
Cycling to Murdoch
Ride your bike to university and secure it in our purpose-built bicycle lockers. To obtain 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/80613 Food and fun on campus The Murdoch University Student Guild helps students to get involved in campus life. You can join a club or society, workout 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 Murdoch Guild Ball. To get involved, go to the Murdoch University Student Guild’s website at murdochguild.com.au/ There is also a variety of food available on campus. While the Student Hub is under construction, the pop-up refectory has a variety of food trucks that change daily. Students studying at the Mandurah campus can grab a bite at the newly opened Guild café, while students at South Street can choose from several different cafés and food outlets around campus.
14
Learning Expectations
Full-time or part-time studies
Domestic students who are enrolled in 12 credit points per semester are classified as full-time.
International students who hold student visas must study 12 credit points per semester. Centrelink
and Transperth require students to be enrolled in 9 points per semester in order to be eligible for
benefits and concession rates.
Thinking about how much time you spend on personal, family, social and work commitments is an
important measure that will help you decide how many units to study each semester.
Unit workload
For each unit you study, you should plan to spend around ten hours per week. These ten hours may
include:
»» Completing the required readings and preparing for classes
»» Going along to lectures or listening to lectures online
»» Taking notes during the lecture and revising them after the lecture
»» Attending and participating in classes (or in online forums)
»» Completing assessments on LMS (such as online quizzes)
»» Meeting up with other students to discuss group projects
»» Researching and writing assignments
»» Creating and practising oral presentations
»» Studying for exams
Enhancing your online learning experience
Whether you are studying internally or externally, most of your unit resources and learning essentials
are integrated into the LMS.
The following are some key things you can do to help you succeed in the online learning
environment.
»» If you are listening to a lecture online, do so without other distractions
»» Print out a copy of the lecture slides and write notes on them as you listen to the lecture
»» Be courteous when engaging with others on LMS
»» Engage and discuss ideas and topics with fellow students in the online forum (don’t just put
forward your own opinion, try to engage with ideas from the readings and lectures too)
»» Read important messages posted by your Unit Coordinator or Tutor
LMS might look slightly different for each unit depending on how Unit Coordinators have chosen to
lay out their unit. Make sure you have a good look at each unit’s LMS page to know what to look for
when you need it.15 Get fit physically and mentally Murdoch University’s South Street campus has a gym and offers social team sports. Students can join the gym at a discounted rate. Daily exercise is a fantastic way to clear your head and get your blood flowing! Social sport is a good way to make friends! The Murdoch University Counselling Service has lots of information about taking care of your mental health whilst studying, including online resources and mindfulness apps. Visit the Counselling website at murdoch.edu.au/Counselling/.
16
Unit Information and Learning Guides
Each unit has a Unit Information and Learning Guide (sometimes called a Unit Guide).
They are an excellent resource. Use them to form the basis of your study schedule and and plan
ahead to set yourself up for a successful semester. Make sure you download and read each guide
thoroughly at the beginning of the semester. You will refer to them so often that you might like to
consider printing them.
Unit Information and Learning Guides contain everything you need to know about each unit,
including:
»» Names and contact details for the Unit Coordinator (and Unit Manager if it is a large unit)
»» Names and contact details for Tutors
»» Learning outcomes for the unit
»» Assessment instructions and deadlines (including allocated marks for each assessment)
»» Policy regarding late submission of assessments (including penalties)
»» An overview of each week’s topics
»» Information about your course materials and recommended readings
»» Information about the required referencing style and academic conduct
»» Information about exams (if applicable).
Unit Information and Learning Guides are usually saved as a PDF document and are located in LMS.
Keep them in an easy to access place as they will become your ‘go-to’ resources throughout the
semester.
Using the Library
The Library is filled with useful resources that are available to all students, which allows you to:
»» Access all the materials you need for your studies, including high demand learning materials,
unit readings, online journals, e-books and past exam papers
»» Access and borrow materials from other libraries
»» Explore subject guides and receive assistance from Library staff
»» Learn APA, Chicago, MLA and other referencing styles
»» Access computers, internet, copying, scanning and printing
»» Access the 24/7 learning common area
For more information on the Library, or to contact the Library, visit library.murdoch.edu.au/17 Assessments As a University student you are expected to complete one or more assessments for each unit that you are enrolled in. These can include (but are not limited to): online quizzes, essays, oral presentations, mid-semester tests, group projects, and portfolios. Details and instructions for each assessment are outlined in your unit information and learning guides. Make sure you make a note of your assessment deadlines in your semester calendar and make a plan to finish your assessments before the due date. Difficulties with Assessments If you are unsure about how to approach an assessment, or if you are having difficulty finishing an assessment, your Tutor should be your first point of contact. Your Unit Coordinator (UC) should be the next person you speak to if your Tutor cannot answer your specific question. Please note that Unit Coordinators are often responsible for hundreds of students, so remember to contact your Tutor first. Additional info about Tutors and Unit Coordinators is available on page 36 and 37. Collusion Fellow students can provide invaluable assistance during your studies. Discussions on how to approach assignments are appropriate, but collusion and writing assignments for other students is not. For more information about academic integrity at Murdoch, visit our website at our.murdoch.edu.au/Educational-technologies/Academic-integrity/ Get help with your Assessments If you need assistance with your assessments, The Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) can help. In addition to one-on-one support by Peer Academic Coaches (PAC), CUTL also offers workshops on a variety of topics including academic writing, referencing, oral presentations, mathematics and statistics. Visit them on Level 4 of the South Street campus library or online at our.murdoch. edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/
18
Support for students with a disability and/ or medical condition
If you have a disability or medical condition, you can apply for alternative arrangements
for assessments/exams. Securing appropriate accommodations enables you to undertake
assessments/exams on an equitable basis. To discuss and arrange such supports for your
first semester (and beyond), contact the Equity and Social Inclusion Office on 9360 6084
or equity@murdoch.edu.au You need to do this as soon as possible for assessments, and
before week 10 of the semester for alternative exam arrangements.
Submitting Assessments
For most units, assessments are submitted electronically through the Learning Management System
(LMS). Directions on how to submit assessments online are provided in the Unit Information and
Learning Guides.
Cover sheets are required with all assessments, and these can also be found on LMS. Cover sheets
contain a disclaimer stating the work you are submitting is yours, and will ensure your assessment is
safely returned to you after it has been marked.
Late submissions normally have marks deducted per day it is overdue. Additionally some units
require that all assessments be submitted in order to pass the unit. For these units, failure to submit
all assessments will result in an automatic fail grade even if you have earned enough marks to pass
overall. Late submission policies for each unit (including penalties) are detailed in the Unit Information
and Learning Guides.
If you are unable to submit an assessment due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, you
should contact your Tutor as soon as possible. You will need to provide supporting documentation
such as a medical certificate or letter from a counsellor to be granted an extension. Depending on
the circumstances, other accommodations can be made so it is important to ask your tutor for help
when you need it.
Returning Assessments
Assessments are generally returned to you no later than two weeks after submission.
Your grade and feedback on your assessment is normally placed on the coversheet. Reading the
feedback is very important for your learning, as it will highlight when you did well and how you can
improve.
Sometimes it is difficult to take on the feedback, especially when you think you’ve submitted a
brilliant piece of work. If after a few days, and after re-reading the feedback, you would like some
further explanation about your marks, ask the Tutor for some time to discuss your assignment and
their feedback. Usually they are more than happy to explain things a little further.
If your Tutor suggests that you need to improve your academic writing skills, use the Communication
Skills Toolkit via moodleprod.murdoch.edu.au/enrol/index.php?id=291419 Exams General information about exams Many units at Murdoch require students to sit a final exam at the end of each semester. Exams occur during weeks 16 and 17 of each semester, and each exam may run for 2-3 hours. The exact weighting for each exam will be detailed in the Unit Learning and Information Guide. Some units require students to pass the final exam in order to pass the unit. Exam timetable The exam timetable is posted online and on noticeboards on each campus. Semester timetables are released in Week 9; Trimester weeks 7-8; and summer and winter units in weeks 3-4. The timetable will contain details such as exam dates, times, and locations. Students may search for the exam timetable online at murdoch.edu.au/admin/timetables/exams/. Preparing for exams Revision »» Familiarise yourself with the learning outcomes for each unit. They can be found in each of the Unit Information and Learning Guides »» Make thorough notes all semester, and condense key ideas »» Revise key ideas »» Revise information from PowerPoint presentations and lectures »» Develop revision aids according to your learning style. For example, visual learners may wish to draw pictures to illustrate key ideas Read and practice past exam papers Past exam papers (where released by the School) for the past five years are available online library.murdoch.edu.au/Borrowing-and-access/Search-and-browse-resources/Exam-papers/ Ask your Tutor or Unit Coordinator if the upcoming exam will be similar to previous exams. If so, you may also want to practice completing the past paper in exam conditions - see how you go! Practise helps build up your hand and arm muscles - we are not used to using these. Find out about Exam Anxiety and how to use nervous energy to your advantage on the Getting through Exams fact sheet murdoch.edu.au/Counselling/Find-out-about.../ You may also like to attend the Exam Success workshops offered through UniEdge.
20
Items allowed in the exam
Certain units allow students to bring additional materials such as dictionaries, textbooks, notes, or
calculators into the exam. This information will be listed in your Unit Information and Learning Guides
as well as on the exam timetable. A clear water bottle with all labels removed is allowed. Make sure
you arrive at the venue at least 15 minutes before the official start time. You will need to bring a valid
form of ID (Murdoch Student ID card, Driver’s License or valid passport) to be admitted into the exam
venue. Leave your valuables at home. Turn off your mobile phone and leave it in your bag.
Feeling unwell during the exam
If you commence an exam but cannot complete it due to ill health or other factors, you can apply to
defer the exam if you report your illness to the exam supervisor.
If you are on campus, a University Nurse or Security Officer will attend the exam venue and provide a
certificate confirming your inability to complete the exam.
You may submit an application to defer the exam with a supporting medical certificate (which must
be issued on the day of the exam) within three university business days.
If you are sick on the day of the exam and unable to sit the exam, you should visit a doctor and obtain
a medical certificate and apply for deferred assessment. You have up to three (3) working days AFTER
the exam to lodge an application including supporting documentation to the Exams Office.
Exam results
Exam results are incorporated into the overall grade of the unit. Final grades for all units can
be accessed in MyInfo. Exam papers are not typically returned to students, however students
may request to see their exam paper. To access an exam paper, students may contact their Unit
Coordinator and make an appointment within 10 university business days from the release of results.
For more information about Exams, visit the Exams website at our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-
organised/About-exams/21 Support Services Murdoch University has a dedicated team of professional and academic staff who provide tailored support to all students, including external and postgraduate students Asking for support Communication with university support services is very important during your studies. It is important to be pro-active in seeking answers to questions that you may have. You should let your Tutors, Student Advisors, or the Student Support Office know if you are struggling with any aspect of your study or personal life as early as possible. Don’t wait until it is too late as there are often more options available to you than you think - all you need to do is ask! The Student Centre The Student Centre can help with general questions regarding enrolment, fees, basic course information, and parking. Murdoch University South Street campus Student Centre is located in the Chancellery Building, Level 2, Bush Court. Murdoch University Mandurah campus Student Centre is located in Building 101. To contact the Student Centre Call 1300 Murdoch 1300 687 3624 Email studentcentre@murdoch.edu.au Student Support The Student Support team is located in the Student Centre and can assist any student with questions regarding orientation and getting started at Murdoch. Student Support are an international student’s first point of call and can help you adjust to the academic, social and cultural environment in Perth and at Murdoch, all in line with your student visa conditions. They provide support for government sponsored students and Australia Awards recipients too. Student Support can help students who have relocated from regional and remote areas, and they also administer the external students Facebook page. To contact the Student Support team Email StudentSupport@murdoch.edu.au Website our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/Support-for-International-Students/
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Student Advisors
Student Advisors are based in each School and support all undergraduate students. They are your first
point of call if you have questions or concerns about your course and studies. They have a thorough
understanding of administrative processes, academic challenges, and support services on campus.
They have time to sit down with you to work out issues affecting your studies and will refer you to
appropriate services around campus. If you feel you are not settling into university, not enjoying your
course, or need further explanation about all things uni – call on your Student Advisors.
To locate and contact your Student Advisor visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/
Student-Life/Student-Advisors/
Equity and Social Inclusion
The Equity and Social Inclusion Office provides support to all students with disabilities and/or medical
conditions. Students can make an appointment with a Disability Officer to discuss and implement
an Equity Quality Assisted Learning (EQAL) plan. This is a support plan. If you think you might need
support, make an appointment early in the semester so accommodations can be put in place in a
timely manner.
The Equity and Social Inclusion Office also facilitates the ALLY program, providing information
and support to students and staff on issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity. For
more information, visit the ALLY webpage our.murdoch.edu.au/Organisational-Development/
Organisational-culture/Diversity-training/Ally-program/
The Equity and Social Inclusion Office also facilitate the Language and Cultural Exchange Program
(LACE). For more information, visit the LACE webpage our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Rights-and-
responsibilities/Language-and-Cultural-Exchange-Program/
Contact the Equity and Social Inclusion Office
Call (08) 9360 6084
Email equity@murdoch.edu.au
For more information visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Rights-and-responsibilities/Disability-
rights-and-access/
Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre
The Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre believes education is freedom. Education gives you the wings to fly,
and to live the life you want to live. The people you meet, the ideas you engage, and the doors that
open are transformational.
Kulbardi is a vibrant, scholarly community that fosters academic success for Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander students who are perhaps starting their university journey, currently studying a degree
or continuing their studies at a higher level.23 The Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre offers: »» an educational pathway via the K-Track enabling program into undergraduate studies »» academic support across various levels of study »» important links to further career development »» one-on-one tutorial support for Indigenous students (under the ITAS scheme) »» peer study sessions through our Kulbardi Mentor program »» a supportive and friendly learning environment for its students across various levels of study »» cultural leadership for the University To contact the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre Building 490, South Street Campus Call (08) 9360 2128 Email Kulbardi@murdoch.edu.au Visit the Kulbardi website for more information murdoch.edu.au/Kulbardi/ Student Financial Support Office The Student Financial Support Office (SFSO) administers scholarships for students at Murdoch University. Financial support and scholarships are available in the following categories: Academic Excellence, Equity, and Community. The SFSO also administers Commonwealth Scholarships for Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander Students, as well as foreign aid including US Financial Aid and Veteran Affairs. For more information about Scholarships Call (08) 9360 2733 Email scholarships@murdoch.edu.au Visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Finances/ Learning Support: Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) CUTL provides additional learning support from senior Academics in all aspects of your study, including, academic literacy, maths and statistics and English language. »» Book a one-on-one consultation with a Learning Consultant, face to face or via Skype or phone. »» Come along to an Academic Skills Workshop throughout the semester on: effective academic reading, essay writing, time management and exam strategies. »» Postgraduate students have specialized workshops offered every semester through the GREAT Program. Find out more at Study Successfully website our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/ Contact the Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) Call (08) 9360 2142 Email CUTL@murdoch.edu.au For more information, visit the CUTL website our.murdoch.edu.au/CUTL/
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Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)
A free, voluntary, academic assistance program using peer-led group study to succeed in challenging
subjects. PASS focuses on collaboration, group study, and interaction for assisting students in
undertaking “traditionally difficult” units. Students who attend PASS have consistently received higher
grades than those who do not attend. Through 50-minute PASS sessions, students are provided with
unit-specific learning and study strategies, note taking and test taking skills, as well as the opportunity
for a structured study time with peers. This is available for selected first and second-year units.
For more information visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/PASS/
Peer Academic Coaches (PAC)
Peer Academic Coaches are successful late-stage undergraduate students who offer free, friendly
and personalised academic assistance to all Murdoch students. No appointment is necessary. Drop-in
sessions are available all week from 9:30 am – 7:30 pm Monday to Thursday and 4:30 pm Friday.
The PAC leaders can assist with: assignments, referencing, starting/planning assignments, time
management, researching, statistics, research reports, analysis (SPSS & r) and any other study related
questions. The PAC team are located on level three of the library foyer all teaching weeks of the
semester!
For more information visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/Peer-Academic-
Coaches/25 The Library The Library has many facilities including computers, copiers, and help desks. WiFi is available to all staff and students using the Eduroam network. Computers located in the Library are available to all Murdoch students. Use your Murdoch Username and MAIS password to login. The Library offers a variety of study spaces and facilities including silent and quiet study areas, group study rooms (some bookable), study carrels, computer labs, AV Viewing rooms and an Reserved study room for students with special needs. At the South Street Campus, the Level 2 Learning Common area is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit the Library website for more information library.murdoch.edu.au/ IT Support The IT Service Desk can help with a variety of IT related issues including obtaining your Student ID card, trouble logging into your online account, and issues with ECHO360 or the Learning Management System (LMS). Contact the IT Service Desk Call (08) 9360 2000 Email itservicedesk@murdoch.edu.au Visit the IT Service Desk South Street Campus The Library, IT Service Counter, Level 3, North Wing. Mandurah Campus Library Desk, Learning Common Room
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Murdoch University Health: Counselling Service
The Murdoch University Counselling Service is provided free of charge to all enrolled Murdoch
students. The service offers confidential appointments with accredited Psychologists and
Counsellors either on campus or over the phone. Students may also attend a range of workshops
designed to help you adjust to university life. The Counselling webpage has some great
information guides, as well as links to external Mental Health Support services.
To make an appointment with a Counsellor
Call 9360 1227
Email CounsellingService@murdoch.edu.au
For more information visit the Counselling Service website www.murdoch.edu.au/Counselling/
Murdoch University Health: Medical Service
The Murdoch University Medical Service offers bulk-billed appointments to all enrolled Murdoch
students. Qualified and experienced Doctors and Nurses provide medical treatment and health
advice for a whole range of health concerns. Appointments are available at the South Street
Campus Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm.
To schedule an appointment with a Doctor
Call (08) 9360 2293
Or walk in to make an enquiry directly.
More information about this service is available on the Medical Service website murdoch.edu.au/
Medical/
Careers and Employment Centre
The Careers and Employment Centre is here to enhance your employability from first year onwards.
Register with Career Connect to access information guides, development workshops, and relevant
careers events.
Careers and Employment staff can also discuss career pathways for your chosen course, as well as
offer advice on creating resumes, writing cover letters, interviewing for jobs, and obtaining work
experience before graduation.
Contact the Careers and Employment Centre
Phone (08) 9360 2596
Email careers@murdoch.edu.au
For more information visit the Careers and Employment Centre website www.murdoch.edu.au/
Careers-and-employment-centre/27 Special Programs Murdoch recognises students who are Elite Athletes and/or Defence Force Personnel have extra commitments that sometimes conflict with their University studies. As such, we have developed the Elite Athlete Program and the Student Support Program to the Australia Defence Force. If your commitments conflict with your study program, you may be eligible to apply for assistance including extensions to the due dates of assignments and deferred exams. If you are enrolled as an internal student and are required interstate or overseas, Special Programs can help you negotiate a transfer to an external study option. For more information email SpecialPrograms@murdoch.edu.au or visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student- life/My-First-Year/Support-Services/Special-Programs/ Student Guild The Student Guild is an organisation run by students, for students. The Guild Student Assist Team provides financial support, and helps you navigate the re-marking, appeals, academic misconduct, and retrospective withdrawal processes. The Guild offers many student clubs and societies, events, and represents the student voice on campus. Contact the Student Guild Call (08) 9360 2158 Email contact@the-guild.com.au For more information, visit the Guild website murdochguild.com.au/
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Additional Information for
External Students
Students studying externally do not attend lectures or classes on campus. Instead,
teaching and discussion with other students occurs through an online portal.
Benefits of studying externally
Studying externally (online) provides a more flexible mode of learning. Students have the benefit of
listening to lectures, engaging in discussion with other students, and studying at a time that suits
them. Studying externally suits students who may live remotely, have chronic disabilities, and/or have
work commitments, families, or other responsibilities. Students can choose to study all of their units
online, or study a mixture of internal and external units in the same semester.
Students who study externally and live nearby are welcome to attend lectures and events on campus.
If you would like to attend some classes, you would need to contact your Unit Coordinator to seek
their permission. You can find their details in your Unit Information and Learning Guide on the LMS.
It is important to keep in mind that studying externally is just as demanding as studying on campus.
Internal and external students generally have the same assessments, so you will need to be organised,
self-motivated, and disciplined.
As your life circumstances change, you can also change your mode of study each semester. You can
change from Internal (D) to External (X) mode via the Enrolment Steps within MyInfo until the end of
week two. If you would like to change your mode of study after week two, you must obtain approval
from the Unit Coordinator.
Access to the internet
All students, regardless of their location or mode of study, will need access to a computer with
internet browsing capability and a connection to the Internet via Broadband (Cable, ADSL or Mobile)
or Wireless.
The internet connection should be readily available and allow large amounts of data to be streamed
or downloaded (approximately 100MB per lecture recording). Students also need to be able to enter
into online discussions and submit assignments online.29 Using the Library As an external student with Murdoch University, you are eligible to use: »» Findit - Search and access online books and journal articles »» Databases - Find subject-specific journals and articles »» My Unit Readings - Access your unit readings »» Ask A Librarian - For help with your research. To find more information about using the library as an external student, visit library.murdoch.edu. au/Students/External-students/ Exams If you are enrolled externally, where you are required to sit your exam 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 University 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 Australian exam centre Nominated Supervisor More than 300kms from Overseas exam Centre Nominated Supervisor You can find more information about Exam Centres and nominating supervisors on the External Exams webpage our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Get-organised/About-exams/External-exams/
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On-Campus Intensives
For some units, particularly science units, external students must attend compulsory on-campus
laboratory sessions or placements. These labs are ‘intensive’ over two to four days, or up to two
weeks depending on the unit. During this time, you are expected to come to Perth and study on
campus.
Certain units may also require you to attend practicums on campus or at another location,
undertake work-experience, conduct research, or complete field-work.
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 Intensives refer to your Unit Guide or contact your Tutor at the beginning
of semester.
On-Campus Accommodation for Short-Term Stays
The Murdoch University Village provides on-campus accommodation in a range of furnished,
self-contained apartments. Students living at the Village will generally have their own room but
share a kitchen and bathroom with other residents.
Information on pricing and available room types can be found at mystudentvillage.com/au/
murdoch-university-village/31 Additional Information for Postgraduate Students 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/MUPSA/ The Guild Postgraduate Student Assist Officer Provides advice and advocacy to coursework and research postgraduates (International and domestic) on academic policies, procedures and disputes including; appeals, re-marking, deferred/ supplementary assessment, retrospective withdrawal, academic/ research misconduct, research ethics, candidature issues and supervisor problems. Assistance in the search for scholarships is also available. Email Postgrad.assist@the-guild.com.au GREAT (Graduate Research, Education and Training) The GREAT (Graduate Research Education and Training) Program is run by the Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) and offers a range of seminar series to provide training and support for postgraduate students. For more information and to register for GREAT programs and seminars, visit the GREAT website our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/Postgraduate-Students/GREAT-Seminar- Series/
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Uni Speak
Below you can find a list of the key terms and definitions you will need to know as a
Murdoch student.
Academic Chair
Academic Chairs are senior academics who are responsible for a particular course, major, co-
major or minor. They can provide detailed course advice and may approve course variations,
late enrolment into units, and course transfer applications. It is a good idea to get to know your
Academic Chair; they can often provide career advice and may even introduce you to networks in
your field of study.
Contact your Academic Chair by email murdoch.edu.au/contacts/academic/campus/
Murdoch#Murdoch
Career Spine (Career Learning)
Career Learning@Murdoch is a unique, career enhancing experience that is woven into Bachelor
degrees. It provides learning opportunities and real world experiences tailored to the area of study
to ensure graduates have the skills and attributes employers are looking for.
Co-Majors
A Co-Major is a set of units which students study to gain specialised knowledge with less depth
than a Major. Only one Co-Major may be studied in a degree course. A Co-major is recorded on the
Academic Transcript but not the degree testamur.
To add a second major, co-major or minor, Ask a Question through MyAnswers.
Course Core
A course core is a set of units which all students studying a particular degree course must
successfully complete. They provide the opportunity to master fundamental disciplinary
knowledge, learn how to think critically about key issues and engage with important research.
Degree
A degree is a qualification awarded by a university. There are two types of degrees, undergraduate
and graduate. Undergraduate degrees, also known as Bachelor degrees, typically require a
minimum of three or four years of full-time study. Combined degrees, where two Bachelor degrees
are studied concurrently, may take up to five years of full-time study. Graduate degrees, which
include Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral degrees, may require as
little as six months or as much as four years of full-time study.33 ECHO360 Echo360 (sometimes called the Lecture Capture System – LCS) contains recordings of your lectures, and is accessible through LMS. You can stream audio or video recordings with a live internet connection, or you can download them to your computer or tablet to watch later. Recordings are usually available on LMS within 24 hours of being recorded. Learning Management System (LMS) The Learning Management System (LMS), sometimes referred to as Moodle, is your online virtual classroom. You will access this almost every day. Accessible through MyUnits, LMS contains important information and helps guide you through the units you are studying during the semester. Unit Information and Learning Guides, lecture recordings, lecture slides, a discussion forum, and other electronic resources (such as reading materials) are included in LMS. Majors A Major is a set of units that students study to gain specialised in-depth knowledge in an area related to their degree. A Major is recorded on the Degree Testamur. For example, within a Bachelor of Science a student may choose to study a Major in Biological Sciences and be awarded a Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences). Minors A Minor is a small set of units which students study to gain specialised knowledge with less depth than a Major or Co-Major. Up to two Minors may be recorded on the Academic Transcript. Students may choose to study Minors that are related, or complementary to a chosen Major. For example, a student may choose to study a Major in Sound and a related Minor in Radio or a Major in Sound and an unrelated Minor in Sustainable Development. To add a second major, co-major or minor, Ask a Question through MyAnswers. Modes of Study You can study in a mode that is either internal, external or a combination of both (studying in fully external mode is not available to international students). The internal mode (D) allows students to study the unit on-campus with the added benefit of face-to-face lectures, workshops, tutorials, and/ or laboratory sessions. The external mode (X) allows students to study the unit off-campus with the added benefit of being able to study when and where time is available. By choosing to study some units internally and some units externally students can tailor their study to meet their lifestyle. MyAnswers MyAnswers is an enquiry tool that can assist you to find information about all things related to university administration.
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MyInfo
MyInfo is the online student portal where you can access and modify all of your information related
to enrolments and fees. You can update your contact details, enrol in and change your units, sign-up
for classes (tutorials, workshops and labs), change between internal and external study mode, register
your TransPerth Tertiary SmartRider, check your unit results at the end of each semester, pay your fees
and more.
MyMurdoch
MyMurdoch is your gateway to accessing online resources available to you as a Murdoch student.
Through MyMurdoch you have access to MyInfo, MyUnits and MyAnswers. Check out the video
presentation providing a complete overview of all Murdoch’s online portals.
echo360.org.au/media/20987999-b67a-4ad8-92b5-5970ec41ab96/public
My Unit Readings
My Unit Readings is your gateway to accessing essential and recommended readings for your units.
Pre-requisite Units
These are units that you must successfully complete prior to enrolling in a subsequent unit. For
example, BIO246 Microbiology has BIO152 Cell Biology as a prerequisite; therefore, a student must
successfully complete BIO152 before enrolling in BIO246.
To add a second major, co-major or minor, Ask a Question through MyAnswers.
Required, Specified and General units
Within a course each unit is either a ‘required unit’, ‘specified elective’ or ‘general elective’. Required
units are compulsory units that must be successfully completed prior to graduation in that course.
Specified elective units are offered as a list from which a specified number must be successfully
completed prior to graduation in that course. General elective units are all remaining units that are
not nominated as either required or specified electives. You may use general electives to help you
complete the total number of credit points required for your course (eg: 72 credit points are required
for a three-year undergraduate degree).
Second Majors
Within many degree courses it is possible to study a second Major, which may be complementary
to the degree. For example, a student studying a Bachelor of Creative Media may choose to study a
Major in Screen Production and an additional related Major in Sound and be awarded a Bachelor of
Creative Media (Screen Production and Sound).
In some instances, choosing to study a second Major may increase the time required to complete the
degree course. It is important when choosing to complete a second Major, that you discuss a study
plan with the Academic Chair of the course.35
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Supervisor
Students enrolled in courses with a research component will be assigned a Supervisor. Your Supervisor
will typically specialise in an area related to your research. They normally approve your topic, and
support your research. Honours students normally arrange their own Supervisor before studies begin.
For more information about Honours, visit handbook.murdoch.edu.au/study/?section=2c_honours
Teaching Periods
Murdoch University runs according to an academic calendar that divides the year into teaching
periods. The most common teaching periods are semester one (S1) and semester two (S2) and the
summer and winter. Most courses run units in S1 and S2, however as some courses and units have
different teaching periods students need to take care to check the teaching period for each unit
when enrolling. A full list of teaching periods can be found online handbook.murdoch.edu.au/dates/
teaching_periods/
Tutor
Tutors facilitate classes (workshops, tutorials and/or labs) and provide guidance on your assignments.
Your Tutor is your first point of contact for any questions you have about the unit. They also mark
your assessments. You will be assigned a Tutor for each unit you are enrolled in, regardless of whether
you are enrolled internally or externally. Your Tutor will provide their contact details usually during the
first class. If you are going to be absent or late for a class, please email your Tutor to let them know.
If you do not know who your Tutor is, or do not have their contact details, you may contact the Unit
Coordinator.You can also read
