How To Choose The Right University For MS in Australia
Confused about how to start searching for the perfect place for your higher studies? Here a few steps to help you choose the right university for MS in Australia!
1. University Rankings
Universities are ranked all around the world based on aspects. Firstly, universities are rated for their research outcome, faculty and research excellence. Secondly, universities are ranked for the best programs they offer. Some colleges might be known for their STEM programs, while some might be globally acclaimed for their excellent research. It depends on which ranking are you interested in and what feature you are looking for. You can check different global ranking systems to make better decisions. Click below for the different ranking systems and sort them out into a list. This will be your first step in choosing the right university for MS in Australia.
2. Types of Colleges and Universities in Australia
‘Group of 8’ Universities
The Go8 are a group of elite universities that excel in research facilities throughout the country. They are present all over the country, but present in the major cities, attracting large crowds. They are very famous, not only in Australia but all over the world; thus, getting admission at these universities can be difficult. The quality of education is supreme and is best suited for students who are academically strong.
The Go8 universities are:
- The University of Western Australia, Perth
- Monash University, Melbourne
- The University of Melbourne
- The Australian National University, Canberra
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Sydney
- The University of Queensland, Brisbane
- UNSW Australia, Sydney
Public Universities
Most of the universities in Australia are public universities. Thus, these are all funded by the government of Australia. The quality of education is also good, similar to those provided by the Go8. Public universities are located in both the big metropolitan cities, as well as smaller towns. As international students, you can opt for universities in smaller towns as the cost of living in these places will also be low.
Private Universities
Australia is home to only 3 Private Universities. These universities are explicitly aimed in different fields, and might give students a chance to complete their degrees in a shorter time as well.
These three private institutions are:
- Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland
- The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia
- Torrens University Australia, Adelaide
Institutes of Technology/ Australian Technology Network
The Australian Technology Network is a group of 4 institutions, which are more closely linked to the industry. They are more aimed towards technological and practical learning, with core training and opportunities of hands-on experiences with the latest developments in Australia.
The members of the ATN are:
- RMIT University
- Curtin University
- University of Technology Sydney
- University of South Australia
TAFE: Technical and Further Education
The TAFE institutions mainly aim for vocational training programs and courses involving work experience and apprenticeships. The study schedules are more flexible, allowing students to be involved in other part-time work and traineeships. They are usually owned and administered by individual state governments.
Private Colleges
Private colleges are abundantly found in Australia. There may be a few suspicious institutions which offer not-so-good quality of education but for the high cost of tuition. It is recommended to do a thorough research on these colleges before joining them.
3. Admission Intakes and Course Requirements
American universities offer two admission intakes in a year.
If you are aiming for semester 1, which usually begins in late February, extending to June, your deadline can be anywhere from October to November of the previous year. If you are applying for semester 2, which begins in July and extends till November, your deadline will be between April and May. Make sure you have seen all deadlines and decide accordingly. If your favorite course is offered only in one of these semesters, do not hesitate to apply.
4. Course curriculum
This is a mandatory requirement to be looked into before you decide to apply for any University for MS in Australia. Go through the course curriculum of your preferred courses. Check the faculty’s expertise, distribution of credits, specializations and other things like traineeships and thesis that need to be completed to get your masters’ degree. Make sure that the program syllabus aligns with your career interests. Cross out any options that do not interest you.
5. Other Influencing Factors in choosing the right university for MS in Australia
One smart thing to do is to talk with the alumni of your the universities you are interested in or the people who are currently studying in Australia and inquire on social media groups. Lastly, keep these factors in mind.
- Accommodation facilities
- Your average monthly expenses
- The climate
- Research opportunities
- Opportunities for student jobs
Remember to pick no more than 5-7 institutions. You can focus on these institutions and contemplate on the right reasons why you want to choose a particular university for MS in Australia.
