A guide to studying online as a mature-age student

Whether you want to enrol in study for the first time or upgrade your qualifications, studying online as a mature-age student is not as complicated as you might think. Studying online gives you the flexibility to balance your life commitments, all while furthering your career. This guide will help you understand the benefits of studying online, what the entry requirements are in Australia and how to prepare for your online study journey.

What is a mature-age student?

A mature-age student is anyone who is not an immediate high school graduate. Most Australian universities consider a mature-age student to be someone over the age of 21 who is commencing undergraduate or postgraduate study. Students who enrol directly into university after high school and complete tertiary studies are typically between 17-21, which means anyone older than 21 is considered a mature-age student.

Why study as a mature-age student?

There are many benefits to studying as a mature-age student. You may have had a break from studying after high school and now you’re looking to begin the career of your dreams. Or you may have entered the workforce straight after grade 12 and remained in one job for many years before deciding to make a career change.

Whether you want to retrain, upskill or diversify completely into another field, your accumulated experience helps bring more intention to your studies as a mature student.

There are many benefits to choosing to study at university later in life. You may have gained some clarity on your career goals and understand that investing in yourself and your studies can pay off in the long run. This self-responsibility means you are more likely to approach your academic journey with maturity and confidence. You may also be considering your specific course because you can see the skills and knowledge you’ll gain will help shape your future career direction. This can give you a greater chance of exceeding in your studies, gaining your qualifications and moving forward on your career path.

How to prepare for studying online as a mature-age student

It’s understandable to feel hesitant about online study as a mature-age student. However, you can set yourself up for success in a few simple ways. Here are some tips for preparing to study online as a mature-age student:

1. Do your research: It’s important to do some research while exploring available online courses, financial support options and admission criteria as a mature-age student. Some universities have mature-age entry programs, such as the Special Adult Entry Scheme (SAES) as an alternative pathway into tertiary education. If you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident aged 21 or older and do not meet the usual minimum admission requirements for university entry, you may be eligible to apply for the SAES. Each Australian university has its own processes for enrolling mature-age students, so it helps to learn about their course offerings, curriculum structure and suitability for your situation and desired career progression.
2. Choose a flexible course or program: Most institutions that offer online courses cater to the busy lives of mature-age students. Look for courses with flexible study options, such as a self-paced mode of learning. Flexible options allow you to balance your study, work and life commitments and can sometimes help you finish your studies sooner than expected.
3. Get yourself tech-ready: You’ll also need to set yourself up with the technology and equipment needed to study online. Investing in a home desktop computer or laptop and ensuring your internet connection is strong and reliable is essential for a successful online studying experience. It’s also wise to familiarise yourself with any software or learning management system (LMS) used in your course to deliver learning materials. An LMS is where you’ll access course material, videos, supplementary resources, submit assessments and communicate with your lecturers and fellow online students.
4. Set up your study zone: Finding a space at home conducive to studying online might be a challenge, especially with family members around. However, setting up a dedicated area free from clutter, noise and distractions can make your study experience that much easier. Choosing a quiet space with plenty of natural light and fresh air can optimise your productivity and focus while you’re learning.
5. Create a study timetable: You’re likely juggling a lot to fit in online study as a mature-age student, so it’s essential to be organised with your time. Creating a weekly schedule that includes devoted study time ensures you keep up with your coursework. How much time you allow for study will depend on your course and your individual learning style. Write your study schedule on a planner, alongside your other weekly family and work commitments. Managing your time while studying online is crucial for your success as a mature-age student.
6. Network with other online students: In the absence of a physical lecture room where you’re sitting beside other students, it’s important to network with your fellow students while undertaking your course online. Many universities have a student hub accessible via their LMS or provide other ways for you to connect with students. This helps alleviate any sense of isolation while encouraging you to share ideas, ask and answer questions and enjoy an inclusive learning experience in a virtual setting.
7. Connect with student support: Most universities offer a range of student support services to help with any aspect of online learning. Student support staff are usually available via email, phone or in your LMS portal if you have questions about your course, assessments, tuition or any technical issues.

Once you know how to prepare for university as a mature student, you can get organised so you’ll have the best chance of a positive online study experience.

Differences between studying online vs on campus as a mature-age student

There are various benefits to studying online compared to on campus as a mature-age student. What you learn and the coursework you follow is typically the same regardless of whether you attend classes online or on campus. It’s the delivery method that changes. Understanding the differences between each mode of study can help you decide which one is better suited to your needs.

Online study: pros and cons for mature-age students

A significant advantage of studying online is the flexibility that comes with taking classes at your own pace according to your own schedule. This is ideal if you’re already busy with work or other responsibilities, as studying online gives you the freedom to study when and how it suits you. Many universities also have multiple intakes per year, giving you greater options to get started faster.

All course materials are available through your student LMS where you can rewatch lectures, collate study notes and keep all your course content digitised. This makes catching up on classes and upholding attendance requirements easy, as it’s all achieved online. Many universities also provide active student support services in business hours and sometimes on weekends to online students. These services allow you to email, chat, call or arrange an in-person appointment for any enquiry related to your studies.

The accessibility of online courses is also a huge plus, which means you don’t need to live in a major city to attend university. You can be anywhere regionally or remotely, provided you have an internet connection and computer. Even if you live near a university campus, sometimes the timetable or cost of travel simply doesn’t fit your budget or busy lifestyle as a mature-age student, which means online study is a great alternative.

In contrast, you may find the nature of online study isolating, especially if you’re used to a traditional on-campus environment. Interacting with the academic team and fellow students all happens virtually, which if you prefer to be in-person, may not suit your learning style. Secondly, if you’re not tech-savvy or experience issues with internet connectivity or accessing your student portal, this could be a barrier to learning and impact your overall online study experience.

On-campus study: pros and cons for mature-age students

In general, on-campus study is less flexible, with a set schedule of classes and course structure. This means you need to attend classes at their designated time and make the most of the lectures delivered in real time. The requirement to participate in physical classes may work for you as a mature-age student if you learn best in a traditional teaching setting. However, the rigidity of class schedules means that it may be challenging to meet your attendance requirements (if they apply to your course) and to stay on top of your studies if you miss a class or two.

An obvious difference between online and on-campus study is your direct connection with other students and lecturers. Having face-to-face contact and engaging in conversations is much easier when you can share ideas and learn from your lecturer in person. Similarly, access to student support is readily available on campus for mature-age students, making it easy to resolve a problem while attending the university. However, depending on the complexity of your enquiry, you may either need to return for a follow-up appointment or submit an online request and await a response from the academic or support team.

Something else to consider is that somepostgraduate courses are not offered on campus. This could limit your options if you prefer to complete your studies in person. For example, bridging or advanced courses are exclusively offered online at some universities, so it helps to research what’s available at your preferred university to see if you can enrol on campus. Finally, you’ll need to factor in the commute to your campus, which can be time-consuming and expensive depending on parking or public transport costs.

As a mature-age student, deciding on the right path to take when it comes to online or on-campus study depends on your learning style, personal circumstances and study needs. Online learning gives plenty of flexibility while delivering high-quality course content and offers active student support, just like an on-campus experience.

What support is available to mature-age students?

Many Australian universities offer additional support for mature-age students, as they understand the unique challenges of undertaking study while balancing other work and personal commitments. Examples of extra support include academic workshops to help you develop study and research skills, peer-led study sessions to learn from other students or recent graduates and career advice services to support the transition into your field. Counselling services are also commonly offered if your personal or study circumstances are impacting your life and studies as a mature student. These are among some of the helpful resources available for mature-age students.

If you have previously completed study or have relevant work experience, you may qualify for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits. While RPL requirements differ at each university, if you can submit evidence of previous studies, such as academic transcripts or demonstrated work experience, such as a letter from your employer, you can reduce the time it takes to complete your course. Fast-tracking your education saves you time and money and allows you to enter the workforce sooner.

Remember, our Student Enrolment Advisors at GlobalHealth Education are also available to answer any questions about starting online study as a mature student.

Courses for mature-age students

Meeting the mature-age university entry requirements in Australia is possible for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. If you’ve never attended university before, you can enrol in an undergraduate degree as a mature-age student. If you’ve gained a bachelor's degree or have applicable work experience (between three and five years) and seek to advance your career with further study, you should consider online postgraduate study as a mature-age student. Postgraduate courses such as a graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master’s degree help you upskill from your current qualification, helping you progress to the next level of your career. If you’re wondering about the difference between a graduate certificate and a graduate diploma, read this article to learn more.

Start your studies online as a mature-age student today

Returning to study online as a mature-age student is achievable with the right help and information to get started. Advancing your qualifications opens up new opportunities, helps with personal and professional growth and propels you forward on your career path. By understanding what it means to be a mature-age student, preparing adequately and knowing the support available, you can make the most of your online study journey.

It’s never too late to upgrade your skills for the career you’ve always wanted. Take the next step by finding a suitable course and enquiring to speak to a Student Enrolment Advisor for guidance on the right study path for you.

Are you curious about postgraduate study? Explore courses from GlobalHealth Education's university partners across social work, public health, counselling, nursing, psychology, leadership and mental health.