Whether you are looking to continue your study or you are returning to education after some time off, there are lots of things you may want to know about studying a diploma. These include:
How long will you be studying?
The positives of earning a Diploma is that you can complete your study at your own pace. If you have a busy lifestyle and need to continue working while you study, look for flexibility like online study. With a full-time study load, you will be able to complete a diploma in as little as 12 months.
If you do need the flexibility of being able to study in a more relaxed fashion, part-time study loads will allow you to finish your diploma within a 12 or 18 month period. If you are awarded Recognition of Prior Learning credits you might be able to complete the course in less time. Being able to study in a time-frame that works best for you makes it easier to stay motivated and finish your diploma.
What types of assessments will you complete?
Diploma courses consist of multiple units that have a variety of tasks that you will need to complete. On top of your assignments, courses consist of tutorials that will help you to obtain relevant and applicable learning outcomes. Case studies often form an important part of diploma study. Ask to see samples and check that they are current and relevant. Your course provider should be updating these regularly to give you the best learning outcomes possible.
At the end of each unit of study, quizzes and assessments are utilised to ensure students can demonstrate the knowledge they have gained. Take the time to refresh your knowledge of the unit before beginning your quiz/assessment. By the end of your course, you will have collated a portfolio of tasks and assessments you can use as evidence of your learning. Additionally, you can keep track and profile any work tasks you complete during your course of study that demonstrate how you’ve applied the knowledge you have gained. Assess your ability to take on the challenge of a diploma qualification. Our unique quiz will calculate if you are in the best position right now to take on a diploma.
Do you Have What it Takes to Achieve a Diploma?
What are the advantages?
Diplomas are often run on a theory of practical based learning. Courses are focused on teaching skills that will apply to the workforce now.
The benefits of practical learning include:
- Identify the knowledge and skills that you can apply to workplace situations
- Practical learning is more engaging that monotonous theoretical learning
- Students are encouraged to actively participate in the tasks they are completing
- Practical tasks are more resemblant of the workplace and give students an idea of what work life will be like in their field
- Having experience is looked upon more favourably than just relying on theoretical knowledge. Knowing how to apply your skills and be able to demonstrate your knowledge is crucial when asking for a promotion or seeking new employment
What resources are available to support you?
Additionally, studying a diploma will give you access to resources that you can use to help your learning. These will include:
- 1. Learning coaches to ask for advice – experts who can keep you motivated and on track with your time management and study skills
- 2. Discussion groups – look for a course that provides an online forum of students where you can ask questions and share know-how
- 3. Student portals – the best providers, have student portals with study tip sheets, case study resources and much more to support your learning and give you the best chance of successful study
Look for expert knowledge and flexibility
With so many styles of learning and courses being developed, put time into finding one that is right for you. Assess your options and look at all the details of your potential courses and qualifications to find the one that would best suit you.
If you are looking for a flexible option, that allows you to maintain a solid work life, gives you hands-on learning tasks and assessments, while providing you with industry experience and skills, an online diploma may be for you. With an online diploma, you’ll be given the support of the institution and your peers, as well as the freedom to go about completing your course at a pace that suits you and your lifestyle.