Why Uni?
Better jobs, better pay and more career possibilities
Going to uni will open doors to opportunities that you didn't even know existed. Achieving a bachelor degree is the end result of your undergraduate studies and is the first step in building your successful career.
A degree expands your career options and provides opportunities to pursue higher status occupations - uni graduates can earn around 20 per cent more than the medium annual earning for Australians aged 20 to 24.*
Our graduates are confident, well-equipped and 'career-ready'.
*Source: Australian Graduate Survey 2011.
Focus on your passion
Most undergraduate degrees allow you to choose subjects that interest you and to specialise in a chosen field through a major or multiple majors. Your degree will take three, four or five years of full-time study, which means you build a wealth of knowledge and experience in your field. You may also choose to undertake a combined degree and achieve two qualifications in one go in less time than it would take to complete them separately. Completing an honours degree is another option - hone your research skills by completing a thesis.
Travel and work around the world
Many of our degrees are recognised internationally - which means you could live and work overseas. But there is no need to wait until you graduate to explore the world. Our International Student Exchange Program gives you the opportunity to study overseas, with that period of study credited to your degree.
Meet people from diverse backgrounds and cultures
The University of Newcastle is made up of students from a range of cultures and backgrounds.
We have a student population of around 35,500, including some 7,800 international students from more than 80 countries.
Choosing the right degree and uni
1. Do your research
A little research goes a long way. Doing the below can be a great starting point.
- Find out what qualifications you need for the career path you want.
- Look at positions advertised and see what skills and qualifications are required to work in your preferred career.
- Compare employment prospects, salaries and working hours to make sure the career you choose will suit the lifestyle you want.
- Research different universities and short-list the ones that offer the most relevant qualifications and opportunities to gain practical experience and professional accreditation.
2. Understand your strengths and goals
Discovering the degree that best fits your strengths, interests and career goals can be tough.
At the University of Newcastle, we’ve got some great resources to help you make the decision that’s best for you:
- Ask a question online or speak directly to one of our Careers Counsellors. This free specialist service can help you map out your career goals and discover the degree that can get you there. Simply click ‘Ask a Careers Counsellor’ below.
- Look at the careers linked to the degree you're thinking of through our tool degrees to careers.
- Stay up-to-date with degree related info and other cool stuff through our regular e-newsletter and SMS reminders – sign-up through the ‘stay connected’ section in the footer of this page.
3. Get a feel for university
If you haven't studied at uni before, there are loads of things you can do to get a taste of what it's like - try the below.
- Check out the profiles of students and graduates on this site.
- Join the library and see what resources are available to you.
- Call our enquiry centre (staffed mostly by current university students) on 02 4921 5000.
- Attend some of our great on-campus events like our Open Days and Advisory Days - talk to staff and students, take a tour or catch a presentation.
4. Speak up and ask questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions - it's important to get the advice that's right for your situation.
Speak to other students about their experiences or talk to one of our support services.
It might also be useful to contact a local organisation that operates in the industry you wish to work in and discuss the industry and career opportunities.
