Study style at MIT
Three-semester advantage
One academic year at MIT consists of three teaching periods, the traditional March and July semesters and the optional November semester. Each semester last approximately 3.5 months.
For full-time International students study in March and July semester is compulsory, and considered full-time study load for the year. As stated previously, study in the November semester is not compulsory; it only provides another option for study. Studying in the November semester, however, has a number of benefits;
- It gives you an option to begin a course sooner or at a more convenient time of the year.
- It gives you an opportunity to take up extra units in the November semester to fast-track your course completion and enter the job market ahead of your peers.
- It gives you a chance to use the November semester to catch up on units you were unable to successfully complete in your prior semester.
- It allows you to spread your units over three semesters, if you are facing difficulties (subject to approval from the Course Coordinator).
Teaching and learning methods
Units are taught using a range of teaching methods including lectures, seminars, tutorials, studio and laboratory sessions, group discussions and projects, individual research projects, class presentations, case methods, and industry based projects. Generally you will learn the core information in larger lectures followed by smaller group practicals. Great importance is placed on understanding and applying theories and concepts, and being able to critically examine different viewpoints.
In addition, industry guest speakers and lecturers from other Universities are invited to conduct seminars at MIT throughout the year. These seminars give you important insights into the industry and expand your overall knowledge.
As an MIT student you are encouraged to actively participate in class discussions, ask questions and express personal viewpoints. You are expected to spend minimum of five to six hours per week on independent study, for each unit of study. You are expected to take responsibility of your own learning, and develop your own mature self-directed learning habits.
Workshops and individual assistance are offered throughout the semester if you need assistance with a particular unit of study or want to further develop your learning and personal management skills.
Assessment
Assessment is continuous throughout the semester, and depending on the unit of study may include practical assignments, individual and group projects, class presentations, tutorial and laboratory work, essay and report writing, class participations, class tests, and final examination.
Advanced standing/credit transfer
If you have completed relevant studies elsewhere, you may be granted credit exemptions towards your course at MIT. Applications for advanced standing will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Any applications must be accompanied with a complete transcript of results and full syllabus of the units completed.
Key terminology
University Pathway Diploma
MIT Diploma programs provide an alternative option for students who have not achieved the requirement for direct entry into a Bachelor degree. These programs are ideal for students seeking greater support in their transition to a Bachelor degree, and offer the advantage of smaller class sizes and greater student-teacher interaction.
Undergraduate study
Undergraduate course is a post-secondary course available at a higher education institution, including Diplomas and Bachelor degrees.
Postgraduate study
Postgraduate course refers to courses beyond Bachelor degrees, including Graduate diplomas and Master degrees.
Program/Course
Program/Course is a sequence of study leading to an award such as Diploma, Bachelor degree, Graduate diploma or Master degree. A program/course is made of up number of units.
Unit of study (unit)
A unit is an individual subject or component of study within a course, and normally has duration of one semester.
Compulsory/Core units
Compulsory units must be studied to complete the requirements of the program.
Elective units
Electives are units that students may choose from. Some courses may require a number of electives to be studied as part of the course requirement.
Full-time study
At MIT full-time study load is generally four units of study each semester.