Starting your studies

An introductory resource for undergraduate and graduate coursework students commencing at the University for the first time.

Welcome to the University of Melbourne! This is an introductory resource for commencing undergraduate and graduate coursework students who are studying at the University for the first time.  It will take approximately 15 minutes to complete.

Starting a university degree involves change, new experiences and surprises.

Compared with your previous studies at school or other institutions, at the University of Melbourne you may have:

  • A greater responsibility for your own learning; the expectation to be an independent learner
  • Fewer hours of scheduled class time
  • Less individualised attention from lecturers and tutors
  • More opportunities to join active discussion with your new classmates.

Listen as these students share their first impressions of what it was like to start studying at the University of Melbourne.

The transition to studying at university may also involve a change for you to a more independent style of studying, learning and researching. Being an independent learner sets you up for study success and career development. It encourages you to:

  • Be self-aware and reflect on how you learn as a student
  • Get involved as an active participant in class and study activities
  • Take personal responsibility for managing your time and tasks
  • Develop your personal and professional networks and connection to the broader student life at university
  • Know when and where to get help to support you through your studies.

Watch the video below to hear what other students say about study expectations at the University of Melbourne.

As a new student, you are off to a great start by engaging with resources like this.

There are lots of other ways to continue developing as an independent learner, including attending Orientation events, exploring libraries and learning about their services and study spaces, joining clubs , meeting people and forming study groups.

Tip: For further information on how to set yourself up for success at university, explore our other resources on Getting started at University of Melbourne