What are the Academic Calendar changes to UCSF in 2024?
Updated
What calendar layer will the program be using for 2024 intakes?
In 2024 the Undergraduate Certificate of STEM Foundations will move into the Trimester Academic Calendar.
A Trimester is a study period that occurs three times during the year. Each Trimester is of equal length (14 weeks) and includes a 2-week flexible learning period (these are weeks that contain no new teaching content, but there is an expectation that students will still be engaged with other aspects of study, which may include catching up, revision, and assessment progression/submission).
The first Trimester study period for the Undergraduate Certificate of STEM Foundations starts in January 2024.
Visit the Academic Calendar and Important Dates page for more information on key dates or to download a copy of the Trimester Calendar.
When can I start my program?
You can apply to start the Undergraduate Certificate of STEM Foundations program in Trimester 1 (January), Trimester 2 (May) or Trimester 3 (September).
Are all courses taught in each study period?
Yes, all courses are taught in every Trimester. This means you can commence your studies in the trimester that works for you.
Recommended enrolment patterns are provided in the program handbook. These patterns have been developed to build your foundational knowledge and ensures you meet pre-requisite requirements when completing subsequent courses.
When will the 2024 Handbook be available?
The handbook will be released prior to enrolment opening for 2024 courses.
Can I accelerate my program and finish my degree quicker?
Yes! You may be able to complete this program in two trimesters if you study in a full-time enrolment pattern. You will need to study 4 courses in your first trimester of study and 4 courses in your second trimester of study.
If you are studying part-time you will find options to distribute your study load more evenly throughout the year, and possibly study more than 2-4 courses per year if desired. However, this is subject to course offerings, enrolment requisites and program rules.
Am I required to study in every study period with this layer?
No! There is no obligation to study in all three trimesters.
Subject to availability of courses, and enrolment requisites, you may be able to enrol in four courses in one trimester and four courses in another trimester and then use the third trimester as a break.
Alternatively, you may want to spread your enrolment load across the year and take fewer courses in each trimester. This might help you to balance work, study, family, and other commitments.
A part-time pathway is available if you want to do fewer courses across the year.
If you are considering full or part time study, an international student, or receiving Centrelink benefits you can access more information on full-time study.
What makes the new calendar layer for my program better?
The Trimester calendar offers a great deal of flexibility to allow you to speed up or slow down your studies. If you are studying part time or beginning your studies in Trimester 2 or Trimester 3, the new calendar you to have a break (approx. 6 weeks) in your studies over the end of year holiday period.
Will I have to do any courses in another calendar layer?
No. All Undergraduate Certificate of STEM Foundations courses will be offered in the Trimester layer.
How do pathway timings match up with entry into this program?
Pathway timings match up with entry into this program - Trimester 1, 2 and 3 intakes are available. Regardless of when you finish your pathway program, you will be able to start your studies in the Undergraduate Certificate of STEM Foundations program in the following Trimester because all courses are offered in all three Trimesters.
I am a current student, what does this change mean for my program?
If you enrolled and are planning to study across Semester 3, 2023 and in Trimester 1, 2024 then you will experience a three-week crossover between these two study periods. The final three weeks of classes in Semester 3 will overlap with the first three week of Trimester 1.
If you are planning on taking courses in the in both Semester 3 this year (2023) and Trimester 1 next year (2024), then you need to contact your Program Director who will help you to develop a plan for your studies in these two study periods.
Where can I go if I need support?
Find answers online, any time, through Ask UniSQ FAQs, or live chat or connect with the iconnect team, your first point of contact when you need information or support, 7 days a week. The team is also available to answer your queries on-campus in UniSQ Toowoomba, Ipswich and Springfield.