Universities in Australia: University of New England (UNE)

University Overview

Founded in 1954, UNE was the first Australian university established outside a capital city. Today it's recognised as one of Australia's great teaching, training and research universities. A multitude of people now hold UNE qualifications, with many in senior positions in Australia and overseas. Some of UNE's most high profile alumni have made their mark in high profile positions in government and related organizations, as well as major international corporations.
Regular industry surveys show that UNE graduates consistently rate their total educational experience very highly - a ranking that reflects the university's commitment to student support. Each year, the University offers students more than $1.25 million in scholarships, prizes, and bursaries. The campus is well equipped with its own child-care, medical and dental facilities, a post office, bank, shops and restaurant, as well as a gymnasium and heated swimming pool.

Undergraduate

UNE offers undergraduate degrees from across a wide range of disciplines which can be taken by a student on-campus or through distance education. Students can also study at the pace they want, whether part time or full time, utilizing the three annual study periods to fast track their degree.
There are many ways to gain entry to study a degree at UNE. Examples of entry requirements include the ATAR, OP or equivalent, UNE pathways enabling course, alternative entry for aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people, special tertiary admissions test and VET and TAFE qualifications. Commonwealth, degree-specific, sporting and general scholarships are also available to undergraduate students.

Postgraduate

UNE offers a wide range of postgraduate courses. Postgraduate study generally involves either coursework or research. Examples of study areas for both postgraduate programs include accounting and finance, agriculture and agronomy, animal related studies, arts, biological sciences, health, human biology and medicine, mental health, physical sciences, plant related studies and social sciences and law.
Postgraduate students applying to study a research degree may also be eligible to apply for Research Training Scheme (RTS) places. The Research Training Scheme provides an exemption from course fees (Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) for eligible students. Successful completion of a research degree may lead to qualifications such as research masters and PhD.

Study Online

Distance education courses in foundation studies, undergraduate, bachelor honours, postgraduate and postgraduate research levels are offered at UNE. Students can choose from many different fields including arts, the sciences, agriculture, business and commerce, law and justice, computer science, economics, education, health and economics.
The course content is delivered to external students through podcast (recorded lecture), a set of readings, questions posted in a discussion board, an online quiz or a video. Lecturers will guide students through the unit with a weekly plan of study, as well as checking in on the discussion boards or forums. Students can communicate with teaching staff via email, online chat or the phone.

International Students

The University of New England is dedicated in providing the best support services for overseas students. With its well-prepared support programs, the university helps ensure the comfort of its international students. Before coming to Australia, UNE provides students with guidance on understanding visa conditions and fees, the requirements to bring along a family member, applying for health insurance and working conditions. The university also offers consultation on accommodation options and living costs.
UNE arranges free airport reception for new students. After being transported to their accommodation, students will undergo briefings. Orientations, enrolment information and international student activities are as well offered to prepare students with university life. Aside from all these, UNE grants international student scholarships and financial assistance for those who pass the eligibility qualifications.

Tuition Fees

University of New England tuition fees vary depending on student status and the course being undertaken. International students are generally required to pay the full fee for undergraduate study while both local and undergraduate students can be required to pay the full fee for postgraduate study.
The average annual undergraduate tuition fee for UNE is AUD$21,230
The average annual postgraduate tuition fee for UNE is AUD$20,760
Check with the University directly for the cost of study of the courses in which you have an interest.

Scholarships

Many scholarships are available at UNE to help students with the cost involved in studying at the university. Examples of scholarships include academic, sporting and equity and disadvantaged group scholarships. For students who have a record of academic achievement, and have been involved in leadership positions within the university and community, they are eligible to apply for high-achievers scholarships.
External scholarships funded by the Australian government, organizations, private businesses and partner industries are available at UNE. Postgraduate and research scholarships are offered for domestic and international students as well as honour year students.

University Life

Aside from the university's academic programs, UNE university life is filled with a lot of social cultural, sporting, and recreation activities. Sport is a big part of UNE student life. Sporting ovals and playing fields, and a vast array of indoor and outdoor sporting and recreation facilities encourage student to participate in social and competitive sports such as rugby, volleyball, hockey, archery, rowing, kayaking, bowling, tennis, gymnastics and martial arts.
Several social events and activities, student trips and excursions are part of student life each year. UNE also has a wide variety of clubs and societies that students can choose from. Student support programs such as residential services for on campus and intensive schools accommodation, safety and security services, spiritual support and medical services are accessible to assist students.

Student Reviews

There are many positive comments from the UNE student reviews and this includes the wide range of student support programs that the university has. Students say that the academic support they get from the school makes it easier for them to pass their respective course works.
Students also appreciate the university's outstanding faculty. Many student reviews point out how teachers go out of their way to help students who need assistance, be it related to academics or in a student's personal life.
A number of remarks from student reviews also mention about UNE's friendly environment and well-kept campus. Students add that in terms of facilities, the university has enough and that these are available for student use at all times.