Glossary of terms
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Academic Advising
See My Course Planning session
An academic staff member who performs specific tasks that contribute towards the delivery and development of a program. An Academic Course Advisor will provide advice and information to students as required, on matters including course progression, student leave and timetabling.
Academic credit
See Advanced Standing
Academic Registrar
The Academic Registrar oversees the Academic Registrar's Office, which is responsible for both the academic and student administration of the University.
Accommodation
There is a range of on campus accommodation choices for UWS students. These range from residential halls to townhouses, cottages and units/apartments.
» Residential Colleges
» UWS Village
Admission
Admission is the process of applying to study at UWS. The process includes applying and accepting an offer to study. After accepting an offer to study, students must complete the eight essential steps to enrol.
Advanced Standing
The credit given to students for previous study or experience relevant to their course. It is awarded as credit points. On average 10 credit points is equivalent to one unit of study.
AHEGS
See Australian Higher Education Graduation Statement
Alumni
Once students have graduated they may want to stay in touch with UWS classmates. The UWS Alumni association provides networking opportunities and a range of benefits for graduates.
Assessment
Any process designed to test a student's learning, including assignments and essays, in class tests and exams.
Associate Dean
A senior academic staff member in a School who has overall responsibility for coordination of the courses and units run by that School.
ATAR
See Australian Tertiary Admission Rank
ATO
Australian Tax Office.
At Risk
An outcome for a student who shows an early indication of unsatisfactory academic performance.
Auditing a unit
Attendance in a unit informally (on a non credit basis). A student should always obtain the permission of the academic staff member responsible for the unit beforehand.
Australian Higher Education Graduation Statement (AHEGS)
A statement that will be issued to graduants from 2011 onwards. The statement will be in addition to your testamur. The graduation statement will include information about your award, academic results, course details, special awards or achievements and the Australian Higher Education system.
Australian Tertiary Admission Rank
The ATAR replaced the UAI in June 2009. The ATAR is the ranking that indicates a student's performance in their year 12 cerfiticate (all states except Queensland). It is used to assess a student's eligibility for study at universities and other tertiary institutions. More information about the ATAR can be found at the Universities Admission Index (UAC) website (opens in a new window).
Award
The qualification given to a student after they have completed all the requirements of their course.
Bookshops
See Connectbooks
Campuses
The University of Western Sydney is a multi-campus university. That means that different courses and classes take place in different locations. UWS has six teaching campuses. A map of each campus is available online.
Campus Connection
Campus Connection is an online interactive website for all UWS students. It allows students to connect, exchange information and discuss a wide range of issues. Students can access Campus Connection by using their MyUWS login details.
CAF
See Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form
CAN
See Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Notice
Candidate
A person (student) admitted to a course and enrolled at the University until such time as that person has completed, is withdrawn from, been excluded from, or is determined to have abandoned the course in which they are enrolled.
Careers & Cooperative Education
Careers & Cooperative Education offers programs and services that connect students and recent graduates with employers. These services include workshops, careers markets and more.
CAS
See Commonwealth Learning Scholarships
CECS
See Commonwealth Learning Scholarships
Census date
The date by which tuition fees and student contributions must be paid. Eligible students can choose to defer payment of their fees via a HELP loan, but applications for deferment of tuition fees or student contributions and the provision of their Tax File Number must be made on or before the census date.
Chaplaincy
There is a multifaith chaplaincy at UWS, which offers support to all students and staff. They also encourage work for social justice and connecting with the university community and community at large. There are also multifaith prayer and meditation rooms available for use.
CHESSN
See Commonwealth Higher Education Student Support Number
Childcare
The University has childcare centres that have places for the children of staff and students. UWS childcare centres are located on five campuses, Bankstown, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Nirimba Precinct (Blacktown) and Penrith (Kingswood).
Clinic
See UniClinic
CLS
See Commonwealth Learning Scholarships
Combined degree program
An approved program of study made up of two normally separate courses. Students enrolled in combined degree programs receive one award on completion of their course requirements. As students are specifically enrolled in the combined degree, it is not possible to graduate from either part separately.
Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarship (CAS)
See Commonwealth Learning Scholarships
Commonwealth Assistance Form
See Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form
Also see Commonwealth Supported Students
Commonwealth Assistance Notice
See Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Notice
Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarship (CECS)
See Commonwealth Learning Scholarships
Commonwealth Grants Scheme (CGS)
The Australian government provides a contribution towards the costs of an agreed number of University places each year via the Commonwealth Grants Scheme. These places are known as Commonwealth supported places, with students paying the remaining fee amount, known as their Student Contribution. Please refer to the DEEWR website (opens in a new window) for more information.
Commonwealth Higher Education Student Support Number (CHESSN)
All Commonwealth supported students and students receiving HELP loan assistance must have a CHESSN. These students will be allocated a unique CHESSN, which will stay with them throughout their academic study, allowing their eligibility for Commonwealth assistance to be facilitated and monitored. Students will be advised of their CHESSN via their Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Notice (eCAN).
Commonwealth Learning Scholarships (CLS) Program
The purpose of the Commonwealth Learning Scholarships (CLS) Program is to facilitate choice in higher education and to increase the participation of students from low socio-economic backgrounds in higher education. Funding of a specified number of scholarships for students enrolled at UWS is provided by DEEWR and UWS administers and selects the recipients of the UWS CLS scholarships. There are two types of CLS; Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarships (CAS) and Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarships (CECS).
Commonwealth Supported Place
The Australian Government provides UWS with a specified number of Commonwealth Supported places. For each of these places, the Australian Government provides UWS with a financial contribution towards the costs of study. Each student holding a Commonwealth Supported place must then pay the remainder of their study costs via their Student Contribution.
Commonwealth Supported Students
As a Commonwealth Supported Student the Australian Government contributes to the cost of your fees and you are required to pay the remainder, which is called your Student Contribution. Your Student Contribution depends on the discipline area of each of your units. Discipline areas are divided into different Student Contribution Bands.
Compulsory unit
A unit of study that must be completed to meet the requirements of a course. This may be separate from your core units.
Computer labs
A number of general purpose computer labs are available to all students on every UWS campus.
Conditional enrolment
A limitation placed on the enrolment of a student due to failure to pay fees or unsatisfactory academic performance.
Conditional offer
A Conditional Offer letter may be made when an applicant has applied for a formal course of study at UWS and has not met the academic and English requirement for admission.
Connectbooks
The on-campus bookstore that stocks all textbooks for UWS courses and units. Textbooks are guaranteed to be available in the correct edition and students are eligible for a 10% discount. Connectbooks (opens in a new window) are located on all campuses and also stock fiction and leisure books.
Connect Fitness (opens in a new window)
Situated across five UWS campuses, the Connect Fitness centres offer fully-equipped exercise and change room facilities. Full time students are eligible for a discounted membership rate.
Core unit
A unit of study you must complete as part of your course. Courses often have a number of core units that are referred to as a 'core program'. Core units/programs are in addition to any majors. sub-majors or key programs you are required to complete in your course.
Co-requisite
A unit which must be undertaken before or in the same teaching session as another designated unit. A pass in the 'designated unit', however is not contingent upon a pass in the corequisite unit.
Counselling Service
Personal counselling is available to students. Students can talk about areas of difficulty, conflict or crisis in their lives. The service is free and confidential. The Counselling Service also offers free study and life skills workshops to students.
Course
A program of study undertaken at the University leading to the award of a degree, diploma or certificate.
Course Coordinator
See Director of Academic Program
Course search
You can search for any course offered at UWS through the online UWS Handbook.
Course schedule
A schedule of units approved by a College Board of Studies providing a coherent study for an award.
Credit points
The numerical value given to a unit. It indicates the unit's contribution to the total number of units (and credit points) required to complete a course.
Credit transfer
Advanced standing given for previous studies at a recognised university (including approved study undertaken through a study abroad or exchange program), TAFE or other approved tertiary institution such as a formally approved Registered Training Organisation.
CRICOS number
Commonwealth Registrar of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students.
Cross institutional study
An approved arrangement in which students from one university or tertiary institution study specified units from another university or tertiary institution. Upon successful completion of those units, students receive Advanced Standing towards their course.
CSP
See Commonwealth Supported Place
Current student
Student successfully enrolled in a course and units for the teaching session in question.
Date of delivery
The date on which a notice is:
- handed to the person who is the subject of the notice
- delivered to the contact address (as indicated on MyStudentRecords [MySR]) of the person who is the subject of the notice
- formally acknowledged or receipted evidencing delivery or receipt
- two days after the date of posting a notice by mail to the contact address (as indicated on MySR) of the person who is the subject of the notice
- transmitted by email or facsimile where the student concerned has indicated in writing that they wish to receive material in facsimile form and has specified a transmission address.
Deferment
Is the choice of an applicant, after being offered a place at UWS, to delay enrolment for no longer than one (1) academic year.
DEEWR
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (opens in a new window).
Director of Academic Program
The academic staff member who provides academic leadership and direction for a program. The Head of Program will also coordinate matters affecting delivery and quality control for unit outlines and curriculum materials, and ensure that student issues in all areas of the program are handled appropriately.
Disability
A condition due to sickness, sensory impairment or injury that curtails a person's ability to carry on normal pursuits. A disability may be partial or total, and temporary or permanent as verified by a doctor.
Disability Service
The Disability Service assesses the needs of students with a disability or chronic health condition and perpare an Academic Integration Plan (AIP) to provide necessary adjustments to address the effects of the disability or health condition.
Distance education
See External
Domestic students
Any student who is an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, New Zealand citizen or holder of an Australian permanent resident humanitarian visa. Also referred to as 'local students'.
Double degree program
An award where two courses are studied at the same time, and in which units from one may be recognised as electives towards the other, but in which the student is allowed to graduate with one award before the other is completed. Those UWS Law degrees that permit more than one graduation (not all do) fall within this category.
eCAF
See Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form
eCAN
See Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Notice
eCOE
Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment
E-Learning
E-Learning@UWS is the online learning environment known as 'vUWS' (pronounced 'views'). Your course and some of your units may have a vUWS site, which may include your unit or course outline, information about your assessment tasks, study resources and announcements related to your unit or course.
EFTSL
Equivalent Full Time Student Load (EFTSL) is the study load a student must be enrolled in to be classified as a full time student. Each unit of study is awarded an EFTSL value, which is a proportion of the total study load required to complete one full time year of the course. At UWS, 80 credit points (or 8 units of study) = 1 EFTSL.
Elective
A unit which may be chosen by a student, as distinct from a compulsory or core unit.
Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form
A form which students must fill out and submit through MySR in order to be a Commonwealth Supported student. If this form is not submitted on or before the relevant census date, students are required to pay their fees upfront.
Electronic Commonwealth Assistance Notice
Students who have applied for a HELP loan and/or hold a Commonwealth Supported place will receive an eCAN from UWS. The eCAN has information such as enrolled units (including those not Commonwealth Supported), total HELP debt amounts, total up-front payments, any discounts received and relevant census dates for payment of fees.
Electronic Statement of Account
All enrolled Commonwealth Supported and fee-paying (including FEE-HELP) students have electronic access to a Statement of Account. It lists enrolled units, total fees payable, due dates and methods of payment. The eSOA is generally available until the census date of the relevant teaching session. Statements of account are only available online through MySR.
Emergencies
In case of an emergency, all UWS campuses have a 24hour onsite security office. Security officers can help you with safety concerns and are trained in first aid.
Employer reserved places
Employer reserved places are used by employers and industry bodies to financially support study undertaken by employees for training purposes.
English Language Proficiency
All applicants who have not completed formal studies at secondary or tertiary level in the English language must also demonstrate proficiency in English by achieving a prescribed level in an approved English examination. The approved English Language tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Test of English as a Foreign Language.
Enrolment
The process by which students select one or more units they wish to study each teaching session. Once enrolled, students are required to pay appropriate fees and sign a declaration to abide by the By Law, regulations and rules of the University.
Equity and Diversity
Services that target staff and students from groups who have been traditionally under-represented in tertiary education and employment. These groups are Indigenous Australians, people from non-English speaking backgrounds, people with disabilities and women, particularly women in non-traditional areas.
Equivalent unit
A unit deemed to be equivalent to another particular unit. If you have successfully completed one of the equivalent units listed, you will need to choose a different unit and you may be eligible for Advanced Standing for that equivalent unit.
eSOA
See Electronic Statement of Account
Examination
A formal supervised assessment process conducted under controlled conditions and designed to test a candidate's learning.
Exchange program
An international exchange program based on an official agreement between two partner universities. Students are required to pay full fees to their home university while studying at a host university and vice versa.
Exchange student
Students can pursue a one or two session(s) fulltime study program in any UWS field of study. Students may choose any units on offer at UWS as long as they meet the entry requirements (prerequisite) for the unit. Students do not pay fees to UWS, they pay fees to their home university.
Exclusion
If a student is excluded, it means their enrolment is cancelled and they are prohibited from re-enroling. Students are excluded from study due to failure to meet progression requirements or for disciplinary reasons. The period of exclusion must be for a specified period of four to eight teaching sessions but must not exceed 24 months. An excluded student has no right of return to study at UWS, and must apply for readmission in competition with other applicants to the course in which they wish to resume study.
During a period of exclusion, a student's enrolment will be terminated and the student will not be entitled to have access to University premises, except with the written permission of the Vice-Chancellor. A student who is excluded from the University shall not be granted Advanced Standing for units completed at another university during the period of exclusion.
Executive Dean
Head of a College.
Exemptions with Advanced Standing
A student may receive an exemption for a specific unit is they have already completed a similar unit or attained equivalent knowledge through prior learning or experience. These exemptions may be granted along with Advanced Standing.
Exemptions without Advanced Standing
Exemption may be granted without Advanced Standing if the student has already achieved the maximum amount of Advanced Standing but is able to demonstrate that they fulfil the requirements of a particular unit of study.
Exit award
An official award defined as an exit point from a coursework program. For example, if you were studying a Graduate Diploma and ended your study before completing the diploma, you could be awarded a Graduate Certificate if you had completed the requirements of that award.
Expulsion
The removal of a student from the University on a permanent basis for disciplinary reasons.
External
A study mode that takes place off campus. Study is conducted by mail, email and the internet with course materials supplied by these methods. Periodical attendance on campus may be required.
Fees
All students are liable for a number of fees throughout their studies. These fees may include student contribution and tuition fees and the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
FEE-HELP
The Fee Higher Education Loan Programme (FEE-HELP) provides financial assistance for the payment of tuition fees by eligible full fee paying students. Please refer to the Study Assist website for more information.
Fee notice
See Electronic Statement of Account
Final grades
Final grades are awarded at the completion of a unit. A table explaining the different grades is available on the results webpage.
First Aid
See Emergencies
Food outlets
uwsconnect (opens in a new window) operates a number of food outlets on each campus.
Full offer
A Full Offer letter is made when an applicant has applied for a formal course of study at UWS.
This letter will state the following:
Course name
Campus
Course tuition fee
Compulsory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) fee
Course commencement date
Full fee paying students
Full fee paying students must pay their tuition fees up front. Eligible fee paying students can choose to defer payment of tuition fees through FEE-HELP. Fee paying students do not receive a Commonwealth Supported place.
Full time student
A student who is enrolled in units that add up to 30-40 credit points (EFTSL 0.375 - 0.5) in any teaching session.
Getting to uni
See Transport
Grade Point Average (GPA)
The GPA is used to measure the academic performance of individual students in order to acknowledge excellence. For more information and the formula used by UWS to calculate the GPA, go to the Graduation policy.
Grades
Grades are the mark given for an assessment or formal examination for a unit of study. A table explaining the different grades is available on the results webpage.
Graduand
A student who has completed the requirements of a course and is eligible to graduate, but has not yet had the award conferred.
Graduate
A student who has had their award conferred (given to them).
Graduation
Graduation is the ceremony during which a student's award is presented to them and they officially become a graduate.
Grandfathering
Grandfathering is a term used to describe the transitional arrangements put in place by DEEWR for pre 2005 students with HECS, PELS, BOTPLS or OLDPS loans. For more information, please visit the DEEWR website (opens in a new window).
Grandparenting
See Grandfathering
Gym
See Connect Fitness
Handbook
The online UWS Handbook is the authoritative source of information about courses, units and unit sets. Students can search the UWS Handbook for specific courses and units.
HDR
See Research Degree
Head of Unit
Any person who holds any one of the following positions:
the Vice-Chancellor; a Deputy Vice-Chancellor or nominee; a Campus Provost; the University Secretary; a Dean or nominee; a Head of School or nominee; a Director or nominee; the Security Manager; any other position designated by the Vice-Chancellor as a Head of Unit; or a President of a student association.
HECS
The Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) is a charge that eligible domestic students are liable to pay every session towards the cost of their university tuition. This scheme was replaced by the HECS-HELP loan scheme in 2005.
HECS-HELP
The HECS - Higher Education Loan Programme (HECS-HELP) assists eligible Commonwealth Supported students to pay their Student Contribution. Students who are eligible for a HECS-HELP loan can choose to defer part or all of their Student Contribution.<
HEFA
Higher Education Funding Act 1988.
HEIMS
See Higher Education Information Management System
HELP
See Higher Education Loans Programme
Help desk
The IT service desk offers free assistance to students with technical and computer problems.
HEP
See Higher Education Provider
HESA
See Higher Education Support Act 2003
HEEP
See Higher Education Equity Programme
Higher Degree Research
See Research Degree
Higher Education Equity Programme
HEEP assists disadvantaged groups to access Higher Education. The equity groups supported via HEEP are reviewed regularly to ensure HEEP remains focused on those experiencing significant educational disadvantage. HEEP assists a range of people including Indigenous Australians, people from non-English speaking backgrounds, people with disabilities, people from rural and isolated areas, women in non-traditional areas of study, and people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Higher Education Information Management System
HEIMS is a web-based Information System that DEEWR introduced to accommodate changes brought about by Higher Education reform. Students can use this system to access information relating to Higher Education Providers, courses and unit information, and personal details. Students can access HEIMS with their CHESSN and a web-based private portal.
Higher Education Loans Program
The term Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP) refers to a range of loans introduced by the Commonwealth government in 2005. HELP loans include HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP and OS-HELP. For more information, please visit the DEEWR website (opens in a new window).
Higher Education Provider
A HEP is a University or other Higher (Tertiary) Education institution, such as TAFE or private colleges.
Higher Education Support Act 2003
The Higher Education Support Act 2003 (HESA) provides the guidelines for the Higher Education reforms introduced from 2005.
IELTS
See International English Language Testing System
In absentia
To graduate in absentia means a student does not attend their specified graduation ceremony. However their testamur and AHEGS will be posted to them upon payment of the graduating in absentia fee.
Incompatible unit
A unit which cannot be studied with another unit in the same course. If you have successfully completed an incompatible unit, you will need to choose another unit. An incompatible unit will not count towards your required credit points.
Indigenous education
Indigenous students at UWS can look forward to learning in a friendly and supportive environment.
Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education provides a range of services for staff, students and community members in accessing higher education. The centre has offices located on each campus across UWS.
Indigenous Support Fund
The ISF provides HEPs with funding to increase the participation level of Indigenous Australians in higher education, as they are currently under represented. For more information see the Improving Educational Participation and Outcomes for Indigenous People Fact Sheet on the DEEWR website (opens in a new window).
ISF
See Indigenous Support Fund
iPay
iPay is the secure online payment system students use to pay their fees and charges. iPay is also used to pay for academic transcripts and Graduations.
Internal
A study mode that takes place on campus. Students attend classes weekly throughout the teaching session. This is the most common and traditional mode of study.
International English Language Testing System
An internationally accredited test for students who need to demonstrate English language proficiency.
International students
Students who study in foreign educational institutions. At UWS, you are considered to be an International student if you not an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or holder of an Australian permanent resident humanitarian visa.
International Student Advisor
International Student Advisor (ISAs) provide support for international students on matters like student visas, enrolment and fee status, international related correspondence and referrals to other agencies.
Invoice
See Electronic Statement of Account
IT support
See Help desk
Key program
A key program is a compulsory set of units that establishes the area of concentration or specialisation within the course.
Learning guide
Supplements the unit outline and details the fundamental mutual obligations and responsibilities of the University and students, in relation to the unit. The guide makes explicit the links between each assessment activity and the unit learning outcomes; provides information about each assessment task, including due dates, instructions for submission, and details about the assessment criteria and standards; gives a clear description of what is expected in order for students to achieve particular grades in the unit and describes how content, assessment and learning activities are linked.
Leave of Absence
Approved temporary withdrawal from a course.
Lecture
A lecture is normally held in a large room or lecture theatre with many students and one lecturer. Students are expected to take relevant notes during the lecture.
Library
UWS has a library on each campus. Services include printing, copying and binding, as well as an online catalogue.
Life Long Student Learning Entitlement (SLE)
As a tool to encourage life long learning, Commonwealth Supported students will receive a Life Long Student Learning Entitlement (SLE) to use towards updating their qualifications or re-training. The accrual of Life Long SLE is dependent on how old a person was on 1 January 2005. Once a person is eligible to accrue Life Long SLE, they receive the equivalent of 1 EFTSL of Life Long SLE in the first year, and 0.125 EFTSL of Life Long SLE each following year.
Load
See EFTSL
Local students
See Domestic student
Mail
Either registered; standard mail; express post mail; or UWS email account where specified by UWS policy and procedures.
Major
A defined sequence of units in an undergraduate degree which defines an area of focus within a course. A major comprises 80 credit points (approximately 8 units). No more than 30 credit points can be at Level 1. At least 30 credit points must be at level 3 or higher. A major may consist solely of Level 2 and Level 3 units. Please see unit level for more information.
Maps
See Campuses
Mature age student
See Non-current school leaver
Meditation rooms
See Chaplaincy
Miscellaneous student
See Non-Award student
Multi-modal
A combination of on and off campus study. It includes online and correspondence work and some campus attendance.
MyMail
A free email account that the University provides to all students. Students are required to check their MyMail account at least twice a week as part of their enrolment. All email communication with the University must be done using their MyMail account. MyMail can be accessed via MyUWS.
MySR
See MyStudentRecords
MyStudentRecords
MySR is the online student records system at UWS, where students manage their enrolment – enrolling, adding, changing or dropping units (until the census date), keeping their personal and contact details up to date, checking their fees and their results.
MyUWSAccount
A MyUWSAccount gives students access to UWS online services and systems such as student email (MyMail), MySR (their online student record) and the MyUWS Student Portal - a central information hub for students.
My Course Planning (MCP) session
The My Course Planning sessions provide new students with information about their course and help selecting units for study or applying for Advanced Standing.
Non-Award student
A person who is enrolled in one or more units, but is not enrolled in a course leading to an award.
Non-current school leaver
A student who was not completing Year 12 (or equivalent) at the time of applying to study at university.
Non standard sessions
Any teaching session other than Autumn and Spring.
Occupational Health and Safety
Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) is the policies, procedures and activities that protect the safety, health and welfare of all people in the workplace. All UWS students and staff should be conscious of OH&S issues. At UWS, the relevant Office is referred to as the Work Health and Safety Unit.
Offshore
Students studying at UWS through the offshore campis in Hong Kong.
OH&S
See Work Health and Safety
OLDPS
The Open Learning Deferred Payment Scheme (OLDPS) allows Australian students undertaking full time undergraduate study through Open Learning Australia (OLA) to defer payment of part of the fee charged by OLA by taking out a loan from the Commonwealth Government.
Orientation
Week 0 (Orientation) is held twice a year in the week before Autumn and Spring Sessions start.
Orientation provides new students with the opportunity to meet other students in their course and staff teaching their course; find there way around the campus; learn about skills that will assist them with their studies; find out about services offered by UWS and ask questions in a friendly environment.
OSCAS
Online Select Course and Acceptance System.
OS-HELP
The Overseas Higher Education Loan Programme (OS-HELP) assists domestic students with travel and living expenses while studying overseas.
Other credentialled learning
Programs or courses undertaken within a workplace, professional organisations or other training context other than recognised universities, TAFEs and other approved tertiary institutions.
O Week
See Orientation
Parking
Paid parking is available on all UWS campuses. Parking can be paid for on a per day 'pay and display' basis, or by purchasing a yearly parking permit.
Part time student
A student who is enrolled in units that add up to less than 30 credit points (EFTSL 0.375) in any teaching session.
PASS
See Peer Assisted Study Sessions
PELS
The Postgraduate Education Loan Scheme (PELS) is an interest-free loan facility available to students enrolled in fee-paying, postgraduate and non-research courses. PELS was replaced by FEE-HELP in 2005. Continuing students with existing PELS loans still have access to pre 2005 PELS eligibility requirements.
Peer Assisted Study Sessions
PASS is a free and voluntary study program proven to improve understanding of unit content and results. It is a student centred, collaborative learning program, run by students for students. It is based on the premise that students learn better together.
Permanent resident
The holder of an Australian permanent residency visa. These students are classified as domestic students for the purposes of assessing eligibility for university entry and Commonwealth assistance.
PlatformWeb
PlatformWeb is an online system used to access tutorial registration, timetable information and students' personalised exam timetable.
Postgraduate course
A program of study leading to an award, where entry into the program requires students to have completed an undergraduate course or equivalent studies or experience in that field of study.
Prayer rooms
See Chaplaincy
Pre-requisite
A unit which must have been satisfactorily completed, or a requirement which must have been satisfied, before a student may enrol in a particular unit.
Print Services
The University's printing service. They have a range of printing and binding services available to students.
Printing
See Print Services
Progression
A student's movement throughout a course from admission to graduation, satisfying minimum course requirements at each stage.
Recognition of prior learning
General term used to describe the University's policy of acknowledging learning in other contexts that can be applied to the knowledge, skills and understanding outcomes of study in courses. For more information see Advanced Standing.
Research
See Research Degree
Research Degree
Research Degrees include the Doctor of Philosophy, Professional Doctorates and Masters (Honours). Research students work independently on discipline based topics, becoming an expert in their area of interest.
Research Training Scheme
The Research Training Scheme is a Commonwealth funded initiative that provides eligible higher degree research students with an entitlement to a HECS exemption for the duration of an accredited higher degree research course. Please refer to the DEEWR website (opens in a new window) for more information.
Resignation
Complete and permanent withdrawal from a course by a student.
Results
Students receive results for all assessments and assignments. At the end of each teaching session students receive their final results, which are the cumulative result for each unit of study.
Retired
Units may be retired when a new unit is approved to replace the current unit or a School determines that it is unlikely to have a viable intake in the future.
RPL
See Recognition of Prior Learning or Advanced Standing
RTS
See Research Training Scheme
Rule Waiver
Students need to lodge a Rule Waiver Request form if they wish to enrol in a unit with a unit rule they haven't met, such as completing a prerequisite unit. Students can only enrol in the unit if their Rule Waiver Request is approved by the relevant Head of Program or Unit Coordinator.
Scholarship
Scholarships are available for undergraduate and postgraduate study at UWS. They provide students with funding towards the cost of their course or research.
School
An academic unit within the University that undertakes teaching and research in particular areas and the administration of particular units of study.
Security
All UWS campuses have a 24 hour security office.
Session
A session, also called a teaching session, is the period during which a unit is taught and assessed.
Special Consideration
There may be times when students experience serious misadventure, accident or extenuating circumstances beyond their control which affects their academic performance. Applying for and receiving special consideration means that those circumstances will be taken into account when their grade is calculated.
Student
A person enrolled at UWS.
Student Central
Student Central offices are the central point for all student questions and information. Go to any UWS Student Central for student and staff ID cards, forms, information brochures, and to get help. All UWS campuses, except Nirimba Precinct, have a Student Central. You can also contact Student Central on the Student Central Infoline 1300 668 370 or email studentcentral@uws.edu.au.
Student Contribution
A Student Contribution is the portion of study costs that Commonwealth Supported students must pay. The Australian government provides a contribution to the Higher Education Provider (HEP) for each student that holds a Commonwealth Supported place and the Student Contribution is the remaining amount owing. Students may be eligible for a HELP loan in order to access financial assistance for the payment of Student Contributions. For more information, please see the Fees webpage.
Student email account
See MyMail
Student Insurances
Student Insurances cover UWS students involved in approved activities for their course, including work experience, placements and internships.
Student Learning Entitlement (SLE)
A Student Learning Entitlement provides students with access to a minimum of seven years EFTSL as a Commonwealth Supported student. Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens, and holders of Australian permanent visas are entitled to SLE. Students can obtain additional SLE under certain conditions. For more information, please visit the DEEWR website (opens in a new window).
Student load
See EFTSL
Student Private Portal
The Student Private Portal gives students access to a summary of the Commonwealth assistance they have received, including their SLE usage, HELP loans received, and Commonwealth scholarship history.
Student Welfare Service
The Student Welfare Service can help students fill out applications, offer support at misconduct or other hearings, give financial support and advice and refer them to other services.
Study Abroad
Study Abroad enables students to study with an overseas provider when there is no formal exchange agreement.
Stuvac
Stuvac is the period immediately before the official exam period. There are no lectures or tutorials during stuvac so students have more time to prepare for exams.
Sub-major
A sub-major is an approved, defined sequence of 40 credit points (approximately 4 units) at any level in an undergraduate course.
Suspension
The barring of a student from attendance at the University for a specified period of time for disciplinary reasons. A student may be suspended for a period of one to four teaching sessions, which will not exceed 12 months. At the conclusion of a period of suspension, the student has automatic right of resumption of study in their original course, or a course deemed to be equivalent by the University.
During a period of suspension, a student's enrolment will be terminated and the student will not be entitled to have access to University premises or facilities, except with the written permission of the Vice-Chancellor. A student who is suspended from the University shall not be granted Advanced Standing for units completed at another University during the period of suspension.
Termination
The cancellation by the University of a student's enrolment in a course, usually due to failure to meet administrative requirements.
Testamur
The certificate presented to a graduate at Graduation, indicating the award received.
TFN
Tax File Number.
Timetable
The timetable tells students where and when their classes are scheduled. UWS students have to build their own timetable using the online system PlatformWeb.
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language.
Transcript
An academic transcript is the formal written record of results achieved in all enrolled units in a course.
Transport
Detailed information about the various ways to get to each UWS campus, including a copy of the Transport Access Guides is available on the getting to uni webpage.
Travel concession
Travel concession passes allow students to use public transport at a discounted rate. There are strict eligibilty criteria and penalties for misuse.
Tuition fees
Course fees paid by full fee paying students for each unit in which they are enrolled. Full tuition fee paying students do not receive an Australian Government contribution towards their course costs. The Australian Government sets a minimum limit on tuition fees. Tuition fees will not be less than the student contributions paid by Commonwealth supported students in the same course. Fees are charged according to the UWS approved fees schedule, and vary across awards and units. The fee schedule is revised each calendar year, and therefore fees may increase annually.
Tutorial
A tutorial is a small class where set readings and lecture materials are discussed in detail each week. Students sometimes have to lead tutorial discussions or make presentations.
Tutorial registration
Commonly referred to as 'tute reg'. Students have to register for their tutorials using the online registration system in PlatformWeb. Tutorial Registration happens after enrolment and before classes start. Students need to prepare by reading the information on the Tutorial Registration webpage.
UAC
See Universities Admission Centre
UAI
See Universities Admission Index
Uncredentialled learning and skills recognition
Learning that has been gained from work or life experience. Such prior learning may have been gained through work based programs, self tuition, non-accredited professional development programs, TAFE or university programs.
Undergraduate course
A program of study leading to an award that does not require students to have already completed a degree course prior to admission.
UniClinic
UWS UniClinic is open to the public six days a week, offering a range of therapeutic health practices at reduced rates.
Unit
A unit is the equivalent of a subject at school. Students will study a number of individual units to make up their whole course.
Unit completion
a student completes a unit if they:
a) attend the lectures and other classes, workshops, as specified in course rules
b) satisfactorily complete the written and other work required and
c) satisfy the assessment requirements of the unit.
Unit Coordinator
The academic staff member who is responsible for academic administration matters relating to the unit and the students enrolled in that unit.
Unit information
Provides approved information in summary form to a prospective student about what the student would expect to learn from studying in the unit. The outline provides information about the formal status of the unit in the curriculum, including credit points, unit level, prerequisites for study, and mode of study. Unit outlines provide information about the approved assessment requirements for the unit.
Unit level
The level applied to a unit is an indication of the level of learning required and generally corresponds to the year of study. For example, units at Level 1 are equivalent to 1st year learning expectations and requirements. Each course has specific requirements about how many units must be taken at each level.
Unit outline
A unit outline is a booklet given to students at the beginning of each session, for each unit they're enrolled in. The unit outline generally includes the week-to-week structure of the unit, scheduled readings and topics, assessment information, attendance requirements, required texts and information about referrencing and plagiarism.
Unit search
You can search for specific units of study using the online UWS Handbook.
Unit set
Unit set is the term to describe the specialisations that students can select to make up part of their formal course structure. The most common unit sets that students select are key programs, majors and sub-majors.
Unitrack
A program that allows applicants to make yourself more competitive for university entry. Unitrack gives applicants the opportunity to enrol in individual units from a wide range of degrees.
Universities Admission Centre (opens in a new window)
For most undergraduate and postgraduate courses, application for admission to UWS must be submitted through UAC. If a course requires direct application to the University, this will be advertised on the UWS website.
Universities Admission Index
The UAI was the old system of ranking students based on their performance in the HSC (pre-2009). It was used to determine eligibility for entry into universities and tertiary institutions. For more details about the change, visit the UAC website (opens in a new window).
UWS/University
The University of Western Sydney.
Venue hire
UWS venues are available for hire to students, staff and the wider community.
vUWS
The online learning environment (pronounced 'views').
Vice-Chancellor
The Chief Executive Officer of the University of Western Sydney.
Vice-Chancellor's Excellence awards
The Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Awards were initiated in 2002 to showcase the endeavours and accomplishments of UWS staff and to most importantly, publicly reward, recognise and encourage their excellent performance and achievements.
WebCT
See vUWS
Whitlam Insitute (opens in a new window)
The Whitlam Institute operates with the University of Western Sydney. It is a dynamic public policy institute that commemorates the life and work of one of Australia's most respected Prime Ministers, The Hon. Gough Whitlam AC QC, and bridges the historical legacy of Mr Whitlam's years in public life and the contemporary relevance of the Institute's work to public discourse and policy.
Withdrawal
Formally withdrawing enrolment in a unit. There are different procedures and penalties for withdrawing before and after census date. For more information, see the managing your study webpage.
Working day
Where University documents refer to timelines specified in 'working days', these are taken to mean weekdays - Monday to Friday within normal business hours and excludes public holidays.
