Requesting a variation to your program requirements or a course substitution
It's important to adhere to your degree's program requirements and program structure to be eligible to graduate.
If you plan to deviate from your degree's requirements or structure, or have already, you can request a variation to your program's requirements—or a course substitution—to potentially remain eligible to graduate.
These requests are not automatically approved, so it's helpful to first seek expert advice.
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Where to seek advice
In the first instance, reach out to Student Connect for advice on altering your program requirements and structure.
You may also wish to talk to your Program Director, Program Support Officer or an International Student Advisor for advice.
Understand the consequences
If your request for variation to program requirements or course substitution is approved, your unofficial academic transcript will include a notation.
Variation to program requirements
In the case of an approved variation to program requirements, your unofficial academic transcript will bear the following notation:
Approval for the degree to be awarded on the basis of a variation to the courses required for completion of the degree requirements.
Course substitution
In the case of an approved request for course substitution, your unofficial academic transcript will bear the following notation:
Approval granted to substitute <course code and title> with <course code and title>.
Reasons a request may be approved
Reasons a request for variation to program requirements may be granted include:
- the program's requirements are impractical in terms of availability and learning outcomes
- the requirements of your degree have been met at graduation, with the exception of a preparatory requirement
- the revised program of study satisfies the knowledge and skills of the qualification
- the degree is accredited or recognised by a professional body and your revised program of study satisfies the standards of recognition
- the revised program of study continues to comply with the total number of credit points required for the degree.
When submitting a request, you will need to outline your proposed changes and the justification for your request.
Reasons a request may be denied
Reasons a request for variation to program requirements may be denied include:
- you were awarded the maximum amount of credit towards your degree requirements when admitted to your program
- your degree is accredited or recognised by a professional body and the proposed variation does not satisfy the standards for recognition
- you have met the total credit points for your degree but failed to complete specific requirements
- the variation would give you an unfair advantage over other students in the program
- the minimum proportion of the qualification's components are not at the level of the qualification type
- achievement of the program's learning outcomes cannot be demonstrated.
There are some program requirements that are unlikely to be approved as a variation, including capstone course requirements, placement or practicum requirements, and the English Language Enhancement Course.
Assessing your request
Once submitted, your request will be forwarded to the relevant Program Director for consideration.
The relevant Program Director will consider whether there are grounds for the request to be recommended to the Dean (Learning and Teaching).
You will be emailed regarding the outcome of your request.
Submit your request
Select the form that best suits your circumstances.
For variations to more than one course or requirement:
For variations to a single course in your degree program: