Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

For semester and other important dates please visit application dates.

The software expectations outlined for your online course remain relevant, with some updates to consider:

• Hardware: A desktop or laptop computer is essential, as tablets and smartphones may not support all course components.
• Operating System: Ensure your computer runs a current operating system, such as Windows 10 or later, or macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later.
• Internet Connection: A reliable broadband connection with sufficient data allowance is crucial.
• Browser Compatibility: Use modern web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari, and keep them updated.
• Software Requirements: Some course materials may require Java or Flash. Note that iOS devices do not support Flash, which may limit functionality on iPads and iPhones.
• Peripheral Devices: A webcam and headset are recommended for interactive components.

Older computers may not accommodate various components of this course. Please verify these requirements with your institution, as specific courses may have additional needs.

The course is designed for people who are returning to study after a break or who haven't studied since they left school. There are no formal pre-requisites for the course and the Dementia Care Program includes 4 foundation units at the beginning of the course to help prepare you for successful online study at University. If you have studied at University before, or have a Diploma or Advanced Diploma, you may be eligible for Advanced Standing for some of these units (please, see next question). We have dedicated Student and Learning Skills Advisers as part of the Dementia Care Team to assist you with any learning enquiries or issues you may have regarding your transition to University study. We offer a broad range of support and can be contacted during business hours via DementiaCare.Support@utas.edu.au or via telephone (03) 6226 6911.

If you have successfully completed a Diploma, Advanced Diploma or any University level study in the past, you may be eligible to apply for Advanced Standing (Recognition of Prior Learning-RPL) in the Dementia Care Program. In some cases workplace experience may also be considered. Once you have accepted your offer for study in the Dementia Care Program, please contact Dementia.Care@utas.edu.au for more information.

This course is offered as either a full or part-time course, however if you are working more than 20 hours per week it is recommended that you enrol as a part-time student. Full-time load is considered 3-4 units per semester and part-time 1-2 unit per semester. Although everyone's study habits and circumstances differ, it is estimated that approximately 10 hours study time will need to be allocated to each unit per week in order to successfully complete the unit.

There are no examinations. Rather than a final exam at the end of each unit of study there will be ongoing assessment during the course. Throughout each semester there will be a variety of activities and assignments such as online quizzes; written assignments; case studies; oral presentations; participation in online discussion forums; group assignments; keeping a reflective journal and research projects.

No, you do not need to be online at set times. Course materials are usually released on a weekly or fortnightly basis and you can complete the course work at any time within this period. When you are undertaking group work or live chat sessions you may be required to be online at set times, however this does not happen frequently and all sessions are recorded for access after the session.

Each unit has a unit outline document that contains all the essential details for the unit. When study commences unit outlines will be available on the student course website My Learning Online (MYLO).

Yes. Consistent and regular time commitment to each unit each week is essential to complete the necessary learning and acquire the knowledge needed for scheduled assessments.  Depending on your unit, course material is released on a weekly and fortnightly basis.

Unfortunately, no, the way the course is designed is for information to be released on a weekly or fortnightly basis and continual engagement with your unit is required weekly. As there is no formal examination at the end of the unit, a considerable emphasis is placed on regular and continuing commitment to assessment tasks and engagement throughout the Semester.

Please contact one of our Student Advisors at Dementia.Care@utas.edu.au or 1800 982 600 for advice relating to Leave of Absence and the possibility of deferring your course.