A bachelor’s degree can have a huge impact on your career and personal growth. But what does a bachelor’s degree mean, how long does it take, and what opportunities can one open up?

Let’s take a look.

What does a bachelor’s degree mean?

It’s a type of tertiary education qualification – traditionally, the degree you do when you first come to university after high school (although that’s not always the case, as you might first study an undergraduate certificate, particularly if you didn’t quite get the ATAR you needed). A bachelor’s comes before more advanced qualifications like master’s or doctoral degrees.

Getting a bachelor’s degree shows you have a commitment to higher learning and advanced specialised knowledge in a specific field. It’s not just about attending classes and passing exams – although they are, of course, very important. It’s also an opportunity to delve into subjects you’re passionate about, expand your horizons and develop critical thinking skills you’ll need in your future career. A bachelor’s degree also acts as a bridge between the highly structured environment of high school and the more independent mindset needed in both higher education and the workplace.

How long does a bachelor’s degree take?

Usually, a bachelor’s degree in Australia takes about three years to complete for full-time students. However, the duration can vary depending on your field of study. Some degrees, such as those in medicine, teaching and engineering may take longer.

Of course, you can always choose to study part-time. Maybe you want to fit study around work. As a guide, part-time study will double the length of a bachelor’s degree. So, if a full-time student completes it in three years, a part-time student will take six years. It’s also worth bearing in mind that many degrees allow you to take breaks in your study if your circumstances change. So your journey to a bachelor’s degree can be as flexible as you need.

Is a bachelor’s degree difficult?

A bachelor’s degree can be challenging – in all the right ways. They’re designed to give you a deep understanding of a specific subject, and it takes work to get that understanding. That work usually includes coursework, research, assignments and examinations. Your lecturers and tutors will challenge you to push the boundaries of your skill set. And you’ll need to be on your game when it comes to time management, motivation and organisation. But it’s worth it.

And remember, if you need some extra help with your studies, we’ve got your back with lots of support services. From health and wellbeing to study and careers, we’ll connect you with personalised support to help you succeed.

What does a bachelor’s degree mean for my career?

Having a bachelor’s degree brings lots of academic and career advantages that can have a huge impact on your future. It equips you with in-depth knowledge and expertise in your chosen field, whether it’s business, science or the arts. This specialised understanding opens doors to a wide range of job opportunities. In fact, some professions, like engineering, teaching and nursing, require a bachelor’s degree as a minimum qualification, making it a crucial stepping stone to pursuing your dream career.

Many industries value not only the subject-specific knowledge gained during your degree but also the transferable skills honed throughout your uni studies. Skills like critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are universally sought after.

A bachelor’s degree also provides an opportunity for personal growth and continuous learning. Studying one will encourage you to step out of your comfort zone. Understand different perspectives. Collaborate with individuals from various backgrounds. And nurture critical thinking, problem-solving and communication. These skills are essential not only in your professional life but also in your personal relationships and community.

Plus, a bachelor’s degree is a testament to your determination, discipline and perseverance. The challenges you face during your studies, whether it’s balancing coursework with a part-time job or overcoming academic hurdles, help you develop resilience and a strong work ethic – which employers value very highly.

What do I need to apply for a bachelor’s degree?

While different degrees have different entry requirements, you’ll usually need one of the following to apply.

• A minimum ATAR score
• Completion of at least 50 per cent of an AQF Diploma level qualification
• Successful completion of the Undergraduate Certificate in University Preparation or a bridging program
• Completion of two university level subjects demonstrating a reasonable prospect of success through your Grade Point Average

You might also need to prepare a personal statement, essay or portfolio of work. Some degrees also include an interview as part of the application process. Check out our courses page for details of what you need to apply for your dream bachelor’s degree.

Any questions about studying a bachelor’s degree?

Contact our team who will be happy to answer any other questions you have!