'Courses' and 'units' explained
What is a 'course' or a 'unit' at The University of Western Australia?
A course is a program of study which you must complete in order to qualify for a degree, diploma, certificate or other qualification. Course details are published on the University Handbook. Questions about the content of a course, or the academic requirements of a course, should be directed to your student adviser.
A unit is a discrete component of study normally representing 150 hours of student workload (including contact hours, personal study and examinations). A unit is normally equivalent to 6 points of credit. Some units may have a value that is a multiple of 6 points.
Generally a unit is studied for the duration of one semester, but some units are taught in other teaching periods. All units have a Unit Coordinator, but may be taught by a range of lecturers and tutors.
Further definitions are available in the University Handbook and the University's Glossary of Terms.