Textbooks and Equipment

Each course has different requirements when it comes to textbooks and equipment. The specific requirements for each of your courses will be provided in the Course Outline. This will be made available on Blackboard, usually the week before classes start.

More information will usually be provided in your first lecture so you may want to hold off purchasing anything until after your first lecture when you can confirm what is required.

Most students will need to buy textbooks and/or course readers. These are available in person and online from the The School Locker.

For second-hand books, check out Textbook Exchange – The University of Newcastle Facebook page for textbooks from other University of Newcastle students, or try the national Student VIP Textbooks Exchange.

Textbooks and course readings are also available to borrow in the University libraries and are often online.

Basic equipment for uni

You will also need some equipment to help you stay organised:

  • Laptop, tablet, notepad and pen or other device to record notes in class
  • Calendars, Notes and other apps in your device or physical diary to keep track of your timetable

Placement

Some programs have placement requirements. There are associated costs and factors that need to be considered when you are on placement.

Program specific equipment and requirements

Some programs and courses require you to purchase things like equipment, instruments, computers, uniforms, shoes, police checks, and vaccinations. Search for your program in the list below to see if you have additional requirements to organise. This will help you plan your budget and prepare.

Your Program Convenor and Course Coordinator will confirm what you need to organise and purchase at Orientation and in your first week of class, it best to wait until then before you purchase anything.

* These are approximate costs and program requirements are subject to change. Other programs with extra requirements may not be listed here. Check with your Program Convenor and Course Coordinators for confirmation.

Equipment and other costs*

Below are approximate costs for some of the most common program/course requirements. Make sure you check your program and course information for details.

  • Protective footwear – up to $200
  • Lab coats – from $60
  • Safety glasses – from $10
  • First Aid Certificate – up to $200 (or contact UNSA as they offer subsidised courses for $65)
  • Police and Criminal Checks - $42 - $60
  • Vaccinations - covered by the National Immunisation Plan are free for people who are eligible

* All costs are approximate and subject to change