Decide what to study

As a Study Abroad or Exchange student, you can choose from hundreds of Murdoch subjects, called ‘units’. With so many different units to choose from, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your area of interest.

How many units should I enrol in at Murdoch?

You’ll probably study three or four different units each semester, with every unit worth 3 credit points.

Due to Australian Government student visa requirements, you need to enrol in at least 9 credit points per semester.

Before you apply, confirm with your home university about how you’ll receive credit for your study at Murdoch.

How do I find units?

The easiest way is to search our Handbook to find a list of units to study or look at our guide to finding units.

You should discuss what you intend to study at Murdoch with your home institution before you apply, and check if there are any credit approval or transfer forms you need to complete.

Our advisors are also available to answer any questions about unit availability.

The Australian Academic System

Due to the degree of specialisation in the Australian education system, it is a good idea for you to take first and second year level units during your time at Murdoch, even if you are a third year student.

Third year units are available to Study Abroad and Exchange students, however you must satisfy the prerequisite study requirements.

At Murdoch, there is an emphasis placed on self-directed study outside of the classroom. Most units involve on-campus lectures, with additional tutorials and laboratories.

Additionally, students are expected to carry out supplementary study with the assistance of Murdoch’s online Learning Management System (LMS) and tutorial direction.

Some of the unique and exciting units we offer include:

Australian units

• Introduction to Australian Indigenous Studies (AIS180)
• Australian Biodiversity (BIO257)
• Australian Literature and Film (EGL235)
• Australian Legal Systems (BJU100)

Popular units

• Photography 1 (PHO124)
• Drugs in Society (BRD202)
• Introduction to Criminology (CRM100)
• Social Media (COM101)

Field based units with excursions

• Nature-based Tourism (ENV278)
• Marine Ecology (BIO377)
• Environmental Biology (BIO103)
• Managing Wetlands and Water (ENV332)
• Ecology (ENV241)
• Communication Project (COM300)
• Engineering Technology Project (ENG310)
• Tourism and Events Project (TOU322)

Internship

• Physical Sciences Internship (PEN310)
• Sustainable Development Internship Project (SUS532)
• Public Policy Internship (POL340)

Study Abroad Specialised Certificates

Get more from studying at Murdoch with a Specialised Certificate, which is an excellent way to demonstrate your skills and expertise in a particular study area, and increase your employability.

Find out more about our Specialised Certificates

Short courses

We also offer two intensive short courses, Tropical Marine Biology, and Story Telling in Australia, both of which offer you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places Australia has to offer.

See short courses

What will my study at Murdoch be worth back home?

Our full-time study load of 9 to 12 credit points should be considered full-time at your home university.