'Courses' and 'units' explained
What is a 'course' or a 'unit' at The University of Western Australia?
Answer ID 192 | Last updated on 02/11/2023 09.38 AM
Course
A course is a program of study which you must complete in order to qualify for a particular award (e.g. a bachelor degree, diploma or certificate). Course details are published on the University Handbook. Contact your Student Advising Office for more information on course content and requirements. A course normally consists of a number of units.
Unit
A unit is a component of study focused on a particular subject or topic. Units are normally worth 6 credit points and involve 150 hours of student workload (including contact hours, personal study and exams). Some units may be worth more than 6 credit points (e.g. project or dissertation units). Units are normally offered in standard semester periods and some in non-standard teaching periods. All units have a Unit Coordinator, but may be taught by a range of lecturers and tutors.
For more information on courses and units visit the University Handbook and the Glossary of Terms.