STUDENT Handbook This handbook has been designed to assist you during your studies at Curtin College. Getting Started 3 Student Conduct 5 Student Support 16 Student Life 19 Campus Facilities 25 Fees27 International Students 29 General Information 30 Dear Student, Congratulations on being accepted into Curtin College and commencing an exciting and rewarding study pathway to Curtin University. The most important thing to remember if you are having any difficulties, is to let somebody at Curtin College know so that we can try and help you. Whether you are an international student coming from a culture and an environment that is different from Australia’s, or you are a local student, settling into your studies and feeling comfortable in a new environment may take a little time. This Handbook has been designed to assist you in your studies at Curtin College. We hope that you enjoy your time with us, both as a student of Curtin College and as a member of Curtin University. Ensuring you have a rich and rewarding experience during your studies at Curtin College is very important to us. If you do have difficulties (either academic or personal) Curtin College has a lot of great support services and committed staff to Mr Andrew Crevald College Director and Principal assist you. 1 Vision To educate with passion, for our students and their success at Curtin University and in the future. 2 Mission Page 2 We welcome you into the Curtin College community and wish you every success with your studies. Curtin College will be the first choice pathway college for students wishing to progress to degree courses at Curtin University. < Home Index > Welcome to Curtin College Getting Started Orientation Orientation will help prepare you for your time at Curtin College so that you will feel comfortable and confident when starting your studies with us. All students may be asked to show their student card at any time on campus to verify enrolment, and must present their card during examinations. During orientation you will learn about the College and the services available to you on campus; have the opportunity to ask questions about your course; be shown how to use the Curtin College Student Portal and where to access information about your units of study; and other relevant information. Student cards can be obtained from Curtin University Student Central – Building 101. You must take your current Curtin College timetable and photo identification (e.g. passport or drivers licence) to get your card. Orientation is also the opportunity to meet other students that you will be studying with. Our Orientation Leaders are current or past students who have been selected by staff to assist throughout the day, and can answer questions about life at Curtin College. Student Cards All Curtin College students must obtain a student card which has a number of uses. This card not only identifies you as a current Curtin College student, it also acts as a library card, and access card to the College (Building 205) and its computer labs. Page 3 Public Transport Concession Card All full-time students are eligible for concession fares on public buses, trains and ferries operated by Transperth. To obtain concession fares you must have a concession SmartRider card. Students can obtain a SmartRider card from various Transperth agencies and also from the Curtin Bookshop (Building 200). Cards can be activated via the Student Portal. Students must carry a Student ID card with them at all times when using your SmartRider card, otherwise they could be issued with a fine. < Home Index > For more information on SmartRider cards or public transport timetables, please visit the Transperth website: www www.transperth.wa.gov.au P: 13 62 13 E: enquiries@transperth.wa.gov.au Parking Parking is offered to all students on campus through a Pay As You Go system. Students are required to register their vehicle via the following website: www www.cellopark.com.au Four parking zones are available: • Green zone | All day | $3 per day • Yellow zone | All day | $4 per hour • Orange zone | 4 hour | $1 per hour • Blue zone | Visitors | $3.40 per hour When you arrive at campus you need to register the start of your parking session via your mobile phone. If using timed parking zones you must also end your parking session via your mobile phone. For further information, visit Curtin Parking in Building 115, or their website: www www.properties.curtin.edu.au/ parking/ Timetable of week 2 of each study period, changes after this date will require approval from an academic adviser. Appointments can be made at reception. Once your timetable has been created you must adhere to the times as attendance is recorded at every class. Academic Calendars The College has two different study calendars. Students studying Certificate IV, Tertiary Access Program, Diploma of Commerce; Arts & Creative Industries; and Built Environment follow the trimester calendar. Students studying the Diploma of Engineering, IT or Health Sciences follow the semester calendar. The calendars listing the start and end dates of each study period can be downloaded from the Curtin College website: www.curtincollege.edu.au/dates-curtin www Click to view Academic Calendar for Trimester Students > Click to view Academic Calendar for Semester Students > During Orientation you will select your subjects and create your timetable. Please note that rooms and class times are subject to change so you must regularly check to see if your timetable has been changed. Timetables can be adjusted until Friday Page 4 < Home Index > Your Rights & Responsibilities Student Conduct Student Conduct It is important to understand what is considered acceptable behaviour for students at Curtin College. Although it is typical in Australia to have an informal relationship between staff and students certain obligations apply to you; as a Curtin College student it is expected that you will: • attend all your classes, • actively participate in all your classes, • check the student portal daily, be well informed and respond to emails, • meet with fellow students for group work times as arranged, unless prevented by genuine illness, • submit assignments on time, • abide by the College’s rules and regulations, • pay your tuition fees by due dates, • familiarise yourself with the College’s policies, • keep your contact details and personal details up to date on the student portal. Classroom Etiquette Decisions concerning matters of both classroom management and assessments ultimately lie with lecturers. However, students are encouraged to speak with Page 5 their Lecturers should they have concerns about their attendance, academic performance or class participation for a particular unit. Students who are unable to resolve issues directly with their Lecturer can seek advice and assistance from the Program Coordinator, or the Student Advisory department. Mobile Phones Please ensure your mobile phone is switched off during lectures, around teaching areas and in the library. Discipline and Misconduct All students are expected to conduct themselves in a quiet and orderly manner at all times and respect the rights, property and privacy of others. Students in breach of the common rules of discipline within an academic environment will be referred to the Academic Director. Where a breach of discipline is particularly serious or deemed to be misconduct, the College’s Misconduct Committee may meet to discuss and resolve the matter. Students < Home Index > www College Policies are available on the Student Portal and at: For more details refer to the Student Misconduct Policy on the Curtin College website. www.curtincollege.edu.au/collegepolicies Student Contact Details or via the following links: All students are required to provide a current Australian address and phone number on the Student Portal and must update these details whenever they change. If you are an international student on a student visa you are required to provide the College with an Australian address and a telephone number within 7 days of commencing classes or moving to a new residence. You must also provide the College with your address in your home country. If you are under 18, please refer to the Under-age Students (Minors) section in this handbook for details on how to change your contact details. Privacy Students are entitled to protection of their privacy. Curtin College has security systems, policies and procedures in place to ensure student’s personal information is protected. If you wish to change your privacy settings, please complete the Request to View or Change Personal Information form available from the Student Portal (Forms & Info/Forms & Documents/Service Related). www Policies We recommend that you read our Privacy Policy on the Curtin College website. Page 6 www • Academic Integrity Policy • Admissions and Student Selection Policy • Appeals Policy • Assessment and Moderation Policy • Awards and Graduation Policy • Bullying Harassment & Discrimination Policy • Code of Conduct • Complaints Policy • Conceded Passes Policy • Copyright Policy • Credit for Recognised Learning Policy • Deferral and Withdrawal Policy • Disability Policy • English Language Support Policy • Enrolment Policy • Entry Requirements Policy • Equal Opportunity Policy • Family Bursary Policy • Health and Safety Policy • IT Acceptable Use Policy • Late Submissions Guidelines • Lost Property Policy • Notifying Designated Authorities Policy • Privacy Policy • Progress & Attendance Policy • Progression Rules for all Courses • Quality and Continuous Improvement Guidelines • Refund Policy • Records Management Policy • Scholarship Policy • Student Misconduct Policy < Home Links to Curtin College Policies may be expelled or suspended from the College on the recommendation of the Misconduct Committee to the Academic Director. Index > Links to Curtin College Policies • Student Welfare, Counselling & Support Policy • Supplementary Assessment Policy • Transfer Between Registered Providers • Tuition Assurance Local students • Tuition Assurance International students • Tuition Fees and Charges Policy • Under-age Student Management Policy Attendance Regular class attendance is important for academic success. Attendance at Curtin College is monitored and where attendance falls below 80%, students will be reported to the Academic Director. It is very important that you attend all your classes. However, there may be times that you may have valid reasons for not attending your class (for example: if you are sick). If this is the case then you have the may either attend a repeat class in the same week (if it is available) or apply to have your absence approved. Students must complete an Explained Absence Form which is available on the Student Portal under Forms & Info/Forms and Documents/ Attendance. This form must be signed by your lecturer and submitted to reception within ten days of the missed class. www For more details refer to the Progress & Attendance Policy on the Curtin College website. Academic Integrity Students at Curtin College enter an academic environment which is bound by certain rules of behaviour. Academic Page 7 integrity refers to the fact that students must uphold certain principles and follow the rules of behaviour of the academic community. Curtin College is committed to ensuring that all students behave with academic integrity. Therefore, it is essential that students understand the principles underlying academic integrity and behave in a manner according to these principles. Academic Misconduct is regarded as a serious offence and includes: •Plagiarism, •Unauthorized collaboration, •Cheating in Tests/Examinations, •Theft of other students’ work (including any copying), •Copying of visual representations, (cartoons, line drawings, photos, paintings, computer programs, images, tables and graphs). Plagiarism Plagiarism means presenting the work or property of another person as one’s own, without appropriate acknowledgement or referencing. Students face serious penalties for plagiarism depending on the level. Penalties may include: • Zero for the assignment, • Failure of the unit and/or • Suspension from the course. Each offence is recorded in the student notes and in the plagiarism records sheet; be aware that each offence counts, regardless of which subject it occurs in. Cheating Cheating is considered dishonest conduct in any assessment. For more details refer < Home Index > www to the Academic Integrity Policy and Student Misconduct Policy on the Curtin College website. Turnitin Turnitin is online web-based text-matching software that works by comparing electronically submitted papers to billions of pages of content located on the Internet and proprietary databases as well as the work of other students whose papers have also been submitted into the system. Curtin College uses this software to provide a valuable addition to existing methods supporting the College’s Academic Integrity. When student papers are submitted to Turnitin, the paper will become a permanent online record of the work. Sections of the papers that match other sources are highlighted and identified. This generates an Originality Report which is made available to the Lecturer concerned. The Lecturer will determine the quality of the Originality Report and use it to assess whether parts identified by Turnitin as non-original may be reasonably considered as plagiarism. Students will be advised by their Lecturer whether they are required to submit their assessment to this system. For further information about using Turnitin please contact your lecturer or course coordinator. General information about the Turnitin program can be found at www www.turnitin.com. Referencing Students should use the CHICAGO 16th Edition referencing style when preparing assignments. More information can be found on this style from the Library www website: www.library.curtin.edu.au Page 8 Appeals Students have the right to appeal any academic decision that affects them, and the College has formal processes for dealing with these. There are four separate processes depending on whether the appeal is related to: In class Assessments Upon notification of the mark awarded for an assessment item, a student who believes that their result is incorrect or unfair may submit an appeal against their mark. Final Result Appeal Upon notification of the final result, students who believe that their result is incorrect or unfair may submit an appeal against their mark. Termination and Conditional Status A student who has received notification of their terminated or conditional academic status may appeal this decision. Appeal Against Admission Anyone dissatisfied with the outcome of their application to attend Curtin College, can appeal this decision. For more details refer to the Appeals Policy www on the Curtin College website. Under-age Students (Minors) If a student at the College is under the age of 18 Australian law considers them to be a minor and as such the College takes special interest in the welfare and development of minors. International Students Prior to having a student visa issued, a student’s < Home Index > parent/s or legal guardian/s have to satisfy the College that appropriate arrangements have been made for accommodation, welfare and general support for the student whilst they are a minor studying at the College. A Student Advisor will contact the local carer of the minor each study period to check that the minor is keeping to the arrangements that have been approved by their parents and the College prior to enrolment. Minors must not move from their approved accommodation without first providing a letter from their parents stating they approve of the new accommodation, welfare and general support arrangements. It is a requirement under law that ALL students keep Curtin College informed of living arrangements. If you do not wish to stay in home stay accommodation arranged by the College or with your parents, then your parents or legal guardians can appoint a Local Carer for you to live with. Your Local Carer must: •be living in Perth, •be at least 21 years of age, •be readily available for the student, •have Working with Children and/or Police clearance. www For more information please refer to the Under-age Student Management Policy on the Curtin College website. Late Arrival Diploma students must be enrolled and ready to commence study at the College by the end of week one. students must be enrolled and ready to commence study at the College by the end of week two. Attendance is taken from week one regardless of when the student enrols. Students failing to return to study on time will be withdrawn from their course. International students may be reported to DIBP for non-commencement of studies. Students that have enrolled but fail to return to study may incur a financial penalty upon withdrawal. www For more details refer to the Enrolment Policy and Refund Policy on the Curtin College website. Course Withdrawal A student may request to withdraw from their course at any time during the study. They must discuss the matter with a member of the Student Advisory team. The Student Advisor will provide information on the ramifications of withdrawing so the student can make an informed decision. If a student wishes to proceed with their withdrawal, the College will cancel their enrolment. International Students The College will cancel the CoE(s) pertaining to offer provided to the student. This will include any CoE issued for study at Curtin University if the student has a packaged offer. For more details refer to the Deferral and Withdrawal Policy on the Curtin College website. www Certificate IV and Tertiary Access Program Page 9 < Home Index > Your Studies academic or financial penalty for dropping a unit before the end of week 4. After end of week 4 but before end of week 9 - you may drop a unit by submitting an Enrolment Variation Form at Reception or making an appointment to speak to an Academic Advisor. Academic penalty: a grade of ‘W’ will be given. No unit refund granted. After end of week 9 - Academic penalty: Enrolment Trimesterised Students Certificate IV, Tertiary Access Program, Diploma of Commerce; Arts & Creative Industries; Built Environment. Students select units at the commencement of each trimester via the Student Portal which is accessed via the Curtin College website. Diploma students should refer to the Course Information brochure on the student portal for the specified units required for the degree they intend to undergo at Curtin University and select units for their Diploma accordingly. Enrolment changes can be made according to the following time line: Before end of second week - you may change your enrolment (adding or dropping units) via the Student Portal. No units can be added after the end of the second week. After end of second week but before end of Week 4 - you may drop a unit by submitting an Enrolment Variation Form at Reception or making an appointment to speak to an Academic Advisor. There is no Page 10 a grade of ‘F’ will be given. No unit refund granted. Semesterised Students Diploma of Engineering, IT, and Health Science Students Enrolment procedures differ for Engineering, IT and Health Science students. Details on how to enrol are given out in orientation and enrolment meetings before the semester begins. Enrolment details and dates are displayed in the Course Information section of the Student Portal. Students may be required to complete enrolment forms and select units online as part of their enrolment process. General Information It is each students responsibility to ensure that they enrol in the correct units required to progress to the degree they wish to pursue at Curtin University. Unit selection information is available from the course information brochures available on the Curtin College website. The College reserves the right to cancel or withdraw units at its discretion. Classes will only run if there is sufficient enrolment numbers. In the event that a class is cancelled, students may be required to change to another class on a different day or time. < Home Index > www For more details refer to the Enrolment Policy and Refund Policy on the Curtin College website. detailed in the unit outline. Assessments may include assignments or essays, tests or exams and oral presentations. If you are an international student you must be enrolled in at least 3 full load subjects each study period to comply with your student visa requirements. Assessments can be submitted to reception by the time and date as specified in the unit outline or directly to the Lecturer. Students must complete and attach an ‘Assignment Cover Sheet’, which can be downloaded from the Portal (Forms & Info/ Forms & Documents). If reception is closed, assessments can be submitted to the Late Drop Box which is located in the Lecturers’ staff room door on Level 2 in Building 205 (Room 205.227). Assessments submitted here will be stamped as received the next working day. You are only permitted to enrol in fewer than 3 subjects if you have fewer than 3 subjects remaining to complete your course or the Academic Advisor or Academic Director has approved this on the basis of academic intervention or compelling and compassionate grounds. Unit Outlines A unit outline provides information regarding unit content, learning outcomes, assessment dates, resource requirements and contact information for Lecturers/Coordinators of the unit. Once enrolled in the unit, the student can access the unit outline electronically under the Moodle tab in the Student Portal. It is important to retain all outlines for future reference, especially if you decide to change to another university where you may be able to apply for transfer of credit. If you wish to obtain previous study periods’ unit outlines, you can ask at Reception. Fees may apply (see Fees below). Assessments Each unit taught at Curtin College conducts regular assessments throughout the study period. The specific information, type and frequency of assessments for each unit are Page 11 Students should refer to unit outlines for information on late submissions and requests for extensions. Lecturers will distribute marked assessments in class, or will advise students of other arrangements. Uncollected assessments will be disposed of. Text Books The details of the textbooks you require are detailed in each unit outline. The Curtin University Bookshop stocks a wide range of textbooks, stationery, art material, computer equipment and much more. Second-hand book sales The College holds second-hand book sales in Week 1 & 2 of each study period. Students can purchase or sell used textbooks for a significant discount on new book. Details on the dates of the book sales are sent to students via email and advertised on posters around the College. < Home Index > The Curtin Student Guild also operates a Second-hand Bookshop where students can buy and sell used textbooks and other study equipment including lab coats, calculators and lecture pads. Secondhand textbooks can often be purchased for considerably less than new books. The shop is located in Building 106. Exams Examinations are conducted at the end of each study period under supervision. An exam timetable will be made available at least two weeks before the examination period. Students must attend scheduled exams for their unit of study. For more details refer to the Student Exam Rules and Conduct available on the student portal (Forms & Info/Forms & Documents). Deferred Exams As a result of exceptional circumstances it is sometimes possible to undertake a deferred exam. Deferred exams are allowed when students can demonstrate extraordinary personal circumstances which are beyond their control which has the potential to adversely affect their ability to complete exams. Deferred tests and examinations are granted at the discretion of the College and there is no guarantee that the application will be approved. There may be a fee for a deferred exam. If you need to apply for a deferred exam, you must complete the ‘Assessment Deferral’ form available from the student portal and submit it to reception or an Academic Advisor within two days of the originally scheduled test or exam. Page 12 All supporting documents (for example: medical certificates) must be attached to the form. For more details refer to ‘Student Exam Rules and Conduct’ available on the student portal (Forms & Info/Forms & Documents). Supplementary Exams Supplementary assessments may only be approved by the Board of Examiners for students who have attempted all assessments in a unit but have failed and received a mark of not less than 45% (not available for all service taught units in the Diploma of Engineering or Diploma of Health Science). Supplementary assessment may only be granted to students with Good Standing or Conditional academic status. Students granted a supplementary assessment will be notified by the College through their student e-mail. For more details refer to the Supplementary www Assessment Policy on the Curtin College website. Grades Grade Description Percent 10 High Distinction 100 9 8 7 6 5 PC PA F High Distinction High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Conceded Pass Pass Grade Only Fail 90-99 80-89 70-79 60-69 50-59 < Home Index > Grade NC ANN W EX PX FX X GNS DA Description Percent Not Complete (Fail) Result Annulled Due to Misconduct Withdrawn Exemption Pass with Supplementary Fail with Supplementary Outstanding Supplementary Grade Not Submitted Deferred Assessment Academic Status All students commence their course with an academic status of ‘Good Standing’. However less than satisfactory academic performance will result in a review of the status to either ‘Conditional’ or ‘Terminated’. Good Standing Conditional; Academic Status (Condition 1 or 2) Curtin College monitors the academic progress of each student’s performance throughout their studies. Students are assigned a status according to their academic achievements in each study period as detailed below: Student may lodge an appeal against their academic status in accordance with the Appeals Policy. www For more details refer to the Progress and Attendance Policy and the Appeals Policy on the Curtin College website. Page 13 Terminated Status The student is achieving satisfactory course progress and is permitted to continue in the course or has changed to a new course following the recommendations of the College and is permitted to re-enrol. The student is at risk of not achieving satisfactory course progress but is permitted to continue in the course and to re-enrol, under specific conditions set out by the Curtin College Board of Examiners. The student has not achieved satisfactory course progress and is terminated from the College. The student is not permitted to continue or to change course without formal approval from the College. International students with terminated status will be in ‘default’ of their Student Visa Condition 8202 ‘Achieving Satisfactory Course Progress’. The College will carry out its regulatory requirements and report these students as required under law. < Home Index > Extension Units at Curtin University Students in their final study period of the Diploma with a maximum of two units to complete may be permitted to enrol in Curtin University second year extension units (extension study). Extension units are not offered across all courses and may be limited by visa conditions. In order to be eligible, students must have a course average of 65% and must meet with an Academic Advisor or Program Coordinator to obtain a permission letter. For more information please refer to the Progression Rules for all Courses on the Curtin College website. Graduation Students who graduate from their Diploma course will be presented their awards at an annual ceremony. Invitations are sent to graduating students via email. If graduating students are unable attend the ceremony, awards can be collected from reception or students can request for the documents to be mailed to a nominated address. Awards that have not been collected within 1 year of graduation will be sent to the student’s permanent home address recorded on the student database. Reprints after this date will incur a $20 fee. The College is not responsible for any returned mail due to incorrect addresses recorded on the student records. by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (Certificate IV) and Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (Diploma). Statement of Academic Record A Statement of Academic Record (transcript) is a complete record of all completed and attempted units. Students will be issued with a transcript when they graduate or withdraw from the College. Extra copies of your Award or Statement of Academic Record can be ordered at a cost of $20 per copy. For more details refer to the Awards and Graduation Policy on the Curtin College website. Curtin University Curtin College students may use most of Curtin University’s facilities. Upon successful completion of the Diploma, Curtin College students are eligible to enter Curtin University as a year 2 student in the associated degree. Students are required to submit an application to commence studies at Curtin University. A seminar is held between weeks 8 to 12 for all Diploma students in their final study period at Curtin College. Students will be notified by email of the session date and time. Testamur On successful completion of a Certificate IV or a Diploma, students will be issued with a testamur (graduation certificate) that is nationally recognized and accredited Page 14 < Home Index > Student Support Curtin College provide support to students as they adjust to living and studying in Australia. The College can assist in resolving problems which may affect the successful completion of studies. Talking to staff and/ or other professionals is a good way to help resolve issues which can affect a students personal life or study. However, students must be active in seeking information, asking questions, and reading the correspondence sent to them by Curtin College. Please see the Student Portal and posters around the College for more information. Welfare Personal problems, concerns and worries are a normal part of our lives, especially for students adjusting to life in a new environment. Stress, concerns or personal problems are very common and can have a significant impact on well-being and health and also on academic performance. If you are experiencing a personal problem or are worried about something, it is important you speak to someone. Many students find it helpful to speak to family or friends about problems they are having. In some cases this works. However, Page 15 < Home Index > there comes a point that despite the efforts of those around you, you still feel like things are not changing, negative thoughts abound or you feel out of control of certain aspects of your behaviour. The Student Advisory Team are available to confidentially discuss any general concerns or issues you may have. It is not always about looking for solutions; sometimes just talking issues through can help. Problems that students often discuss include: • General stress, anxiety and worry • Family problems (e.g. divorce, death or illness of a family member) • Health issues (e.g. long term illness, pregnancy) • Accommodation (e.g. being evicted, unsuitable living arrangements) • Legal issues (e.g. being involved in an accident, understanding contracts) • Financial (e.g. inability to pay tuition fees) If the Advisors are unable to assist you they can also refer you to a professional who can help (e.g. Curtin Counselling). Adjusting to a New Environment Curtin College has qualified staff to support you as you adjust to living and studying in Australia and/or to assist you in resolving problems which may affect the successful completion of your studies. Talking to qualified staff and/or other professionals is a good way to help resolve issues which are affecting your personal life or study. Every student adapts to the new environment differently. Upon arriving in Australia you may feel confused and tired or anxious. Page 16 It is also possible that you feel excited or exhilarated. Over the initial weeks and months of coming to Curtin College it is likely that you will experience other emotions that are quite different to the way you felt initially (or are feeling now). There is a process that students may go through: Stage 1: Honeymoon Phase Often this is characterized by a sense of excitement because everything is new. This might be during Orientation or the first few weeks of the study period. Stage 2: Culture Shock As the academic demands of College begin to appear, you might begin to feel overwhelmed and perhaps worried. You may be experiencing a new language, a new climate, new friends, new food, new ways of learning and also a new sense of independence. This often happens about week four or five. Stage 3: Initial Adjustment This is when you start to feel that everything is becoming familiar. You begin to feel more confident about adjusting to the new culture and the College. Stage 4: Mental Isolation Even though you were starting to feel more comfortable it is sometimes possible that there is another period afterwards where you continue to experience further concerns. This can be because whilst you are starting to adjust to the environment and your new independence, you may start to worry that you are losing stable values and beliefs, rather than developing more flexibility in integrating new ones. < Home Index > Stage 5: Acceptance, Integration, and Connectedness Finally, you continue to connect with students and staff in your new environment, and become more integrated into the College culture. Orientation Workshops On Friday of week 1 and 2, Curtin College run orientation workshops to help students settle in and manage their workload. These workshops are free and involve learning how to manage communication from the college, making the most out of Moodle, finding out about what’s on in Perth and learning about academic integrity. New students are encouraged to come along and ask questions. More information is available at reception. Academic Master Series The Academic Master Series workshops are available to all students, at both Certificate and Diploma levels. The free workshops are a great way to help students get more out of their studies at Curtin College and later at Curtin. Run throughout the study period, they cover topics that are very useful in helping students develop necessary study skills to gain better grades and use time more efficiently. The one-hour workshops are available at lunch-times throughout the week. Topics include how to manage your time, how to study effectively, how to research and reference, how to deliver oral presentations and how to write essays and reports. Session information is advertised on Page 17 posters throughout the College, and on the Student Portal. University Readiness Program The University Readiness Program (URP) is a free support program offered for Certificate IV and Tertiary Access Program students at Curtin College. In COM201A and COM202A, students will be required to write an English test. If students do not do well in the English language test, they will have to attend URP2. URP2 is compulsory for students that have not demonstrated competency in the English Language test (PELA). The main aim of the unit is to develop the English communication skills that students will need to succeed in a tertiary environment. Students will learn some of the key skills they will need for effective written and spoken communication, and will be given practice in all four English language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing). The unit also clarifies some common grammar problems and provides input on useful vocabulary. The URP2 unit consists of one four-hour class from weeks 3 to 9 of each trimester. The class runs as an interactive workshop and students are expected to actively participate in all class activities including discussions, pair work and group work. Students will be advised by email if they are required to attend UPR2. Academic Language Enrichment Program (ALEP) ALEP is a free program offered to Diploma students to help further develop their academic and English language skills. It is a 9 week course, starting in week 3 of the study period and ending in week 11. < Home Index > The course focuses on a variety of academic literacy skills such as referencing, academic writing, critical reading strategies and the development of written and oral English language skills. ALEP also has a strong focus on building students’ disciplinespecific and academic vocabulary so that they are better prepared for success in their Diploma courses. ALEP is pre-requisite course for some students however, students can also self-select ALEP. Academic Drop In Sessions The Academic Drop in sessions are free one on one consultation sessions with a learning skills advisor to help student with specific academic issues. The learning skills advisor can help students with academic writing and reading skills, referencing assessments, structuring reports and essays, researching assessments, and English Language support. These sessions are available to all students at Curtin college and do not require making an appointment. These sessions begin in week 3 of every trimester and end in Week 12. Students will be seen on a first come first served basis. For more information on venue and times please see reception or posters around the College. Academic Peers Academic Peer Program is designed to give students the opportunity to help one another with their studies. Academic Peers are Curtin College students who have done well in one or more subjects (achieved 70% or more) and are willing to share their knowledge, skills and experience with other students on a voluntary basis. If you are having difficulties with a Page 18 particular unit, you can access help from an Academic Peer. This is a great way to get the most out of your studies – it is also a fun and an easy way to meet other students and to make friends. The Academic Peer Program does not replace the Lecturers and Academic Advisors role. If you do well in your studies you could be invited to become an Academic Peer. As an Academic Peer you will be able to help other students by sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm. Details about how to become an Academic Peer or how to get assistance from an Academic Peer are available from the Student Portal. To find a peer for your unit, check the Moodle homepage. If no peer is listed , contact david.missal@curtincollege.edu.au Maths Clinic The Mathematics Clinic is designed to help students who are having difficulty with their mathematics in any study area or would like some assistance with their unit. If students have problems with theory or specific exercises, or would like assistance from the start of their studies, attend the clinic to for assistance – no appointment necessary. For more information on venue and times please see reception or posters around the College. Disability Service Curtin College is committed to creating a teaching and learning environment which promotes dignity, acknowledges the right to privacy and confidentiality, and promotes an awareness of the needs and < Home Index > rights of students with disabilities. The College has developed a policy to ensure that students and staff with a disability and/or medical condition (‘disability’) receive reasonable adjustments and support that is appropriate to their disability. Student Life For more details refer to the Disability Policy on the Curtin College website. Health Medical Emergencies If you have a medical emergency you can call ‘000’ for life threatening situation. Public hospitals also have a 24 hour Accident and Emergency departments where you can visit and be treated according to the urgency of your condition. The Western Australian Health Department also provides a toll free 24 hour, seven day a week health advice line – Health Direct Australia. Qualified Staff provide immediate professional advice on how urgent a health concern is and what to do about it. To contact this service dial 1800 022 222. Curtin University Health Services Curtin University Health Service is located on campus and offers a comprehensive range of services including: general practice and patient care, help concerning accidents and sudden illness on campus, nursing care such as dressings to injuries, vaccinations (travel, childhood, allergy), nutritional advice management of sports injuries, comprehensive lifestyle advice including information on sexually transmitted diseases and drugs. Page 19 < Home Index > Curtin Health Centre is located in Building 109, and appointments can be made by calling (08) 9266 7345. Curtin University Counselling Services Curtin Health Services runs a professional counselling service for students and staff. For Curtin College students the service is free and confidential. Curtin Counselling is located in Building 109 (second floor). Appointments can be made directly with Curtin Health Services by calling (08) 9266 7850 or by referral by Curtin College staff. Your Safety On Campus Curtin Security provide a number security services to staff and students on campus, including escorts to transport, mechanical assistance for vehicles, and dealing emergency incidents. Students can also download the SafeZone App. SafeZone is a FREE app for all students and staff that connects you directly to the University’s Security team when you need help or first aid. Students can also contact Curtin Security for assistance on campus by dialling (08) 9266 4444, or visiting the office in building 115. Download the SafeZone app FREE at safezoneapp.com or from the iTunes App Store or Google play. Students are reminded to: • Avoid walking alone at night and travel with a friend whenever possible, there is safety in numbers. • Use pathways that are well lit and avoid taking short cuts to your Page 20 destination if they are dark and secluded. • If carrying a purse or bag hold it close to you or tucked under your arm. Students are advised not to carry large amounts of money at any given time. • Be very wary if you are on your own and someone asks for help. • Never take strangers in your car. • Be alert to your surroundings, be confident, look positive and be alert. For more details refer to the Security page on the Curtin University website. www Off Campus Dial 131 444 for Police assistance when it’s not a life threatening emergency, for example: • reporting a disturbance or breach of the peace (domestic violence incident or antisocial behaviour); • report something that has happened in the past; • report a property related incident for insurance purposes; or • making a complaint against police or another individual Crimes can also be reported by ringing Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or filling in an online form on the Police website www.police.wa.gov.au www Australian Emergency Assistance Call 000 in an emergency or life threatening situation when urgent police, fire or ambulance assistance is needed, for example: • A serious crime is in progress, being witnessed or just committed; • Any situation where life or serious injury is threatened; < Home Index > • A car accident where people are trapped or seriously injured; • A serious air, rail or water incident; • Any incident which poses an immediate threat of danger to people or property; or • An explosion or bomb incident or threat. • A house or car is on fire. For further information on keeping on Safe and Secure see: www www.communitysafety.police.wa.gov.au For further information on what to do after a burglary see: www www.communitysafety.police.wa.gov.au Transport Free Bus Service The university operates a Campus Courtesy Bus and Curtin College Access Bus Service (CABS) during university semester dates which is free to all Curtin College and Curtin University students. For more details refer to the Bus Service page on the Curtin University website. Public Transport Curtin University has a bus station located on campus offering seven different public bus transport routes, with some connecting to train services. Due to limited parking on campus student should consider using public transport. www Visit the Transperth website for timetables and other public transport information. Cycling The campus has a range of facilities to cater for cyclists, including bike racks Page 21 and secure enclosures. It is recommended that students purchase a good quality bike lock to reduce the risk of having your www bike stolen. For more details refer to Cycling to Curtin on the Curtin University website. Student Leaders & Mentors The Student Leaders play a role in improving the overall experience for students studying at Curtin College. Their roles include planning, organizing, and running social and sporting activities for you! For details on upcoming activities and events, check out the Curtin College Official www Fan Page on Facebook. The Student Leaders also represent the interest of students by raising issues to the college in matters affecting student experience and well-being. Becoming a Student Leader or Mentor is an excellent opportunity for students to further develop skills in leadership, teamwork and time management which are highly valued by employers. To become a Student Leader you must possess strong leadership, organizational and timemanagement skills and a commitment to developing and improving the student experience at the College. For more details on Student Leader and Mentor recruitment email Student Experience Officer on email or Facebook: david.missal@curtincollege.edu.au www Student Activities The Student Experience Officer organises a range of activities such as soccer matches, < Home Index > badminton tournaments, table tennis and snooker competitions, ten pin bowling, music club, gaming tournament and video competitions. For more information all of the events and activities, email help@curtincollege.edu.au or check out Curtin College Facebook and Twitter page. Students will be sent emails inviting them to participate in each event. Getting Involved Curtin University Student Guild Curtin College students are able to join the Curtin Student Guild as Associate Members. Details on benefits of being a Guild Member and how to join can www be found at www.guild.curtin.edu.au/go/ home The Curtin Student Guild also coordinates many student based clubs. These include: • Academic – for students studying specific disciplines • International – representing students of similar nationalities • Social – for students who simply want to meet others (e.g.. Country Students Club) • Special Interest – for students who share a common interest • Religious – for students wanting to share their faith Clubs are a great way to meet other students with similar interests, beliefs or backgrounds. They are also a great way to find support, make new friends and adjust more quickly to a new environment. Page 22 Curtin Volunteers Curtin Volunteers! (CV!) aim to provide opportunities for personal and professional development and encourage education through experience. CV! is Australia’s first and largest student-run volunteering organisation. CV! has been assisting students, staff, and the wider community to experience the many benefits of volunteering since its inception in 1994. No matter your background or skill set, CV! has a volunteering program for you. For further information visit the CV! office in Building 303, room 265 or go to their website at www.life.curtin.edu.au/ community_leadership/cv.htm www Council for International Student of Western Australia Council for International Student of Western Australia (CISWA) is an external organisation that also organises a variety of activities for students in Perth. www.ciswa.com www Feedback Management The College conducts regular surveys for current and graduated students in order to gain valuable feedback on their entry to the College, and the services and facilities offered at the campus. The College uses this feedback to enhance the experience for current and future students. Feedback is provided to students via the “What you said” page on the Student Portal. < Home Index > Campus Facilities Computer Labs All current students have access to the five computer labs located in Building 205 on Levels 2 and 3. Curtin College students have access to the Curtin College wireless network only. Curtin College has five modern, wellequipped computer laboratories, which are monitored with video surveillance. Students have access to these facilities for personal use at times displayed on notice boards at the commencement of each study period. There are, however, strict rules that apply to these labs at all times as outlined below: • No food or drink is permitted in the labs. • Only Curtin College students with valid Student ID’s are permitted to use the computer labs. • Students should not hold the lab doors open or prop them open. • Students should only use the computers for academic purposes. • Students are to keep their access codes and passwords private and not share them with anyone. Page 23 • Students are not to use the Internet for unlawful purposes or to harass/ annoy other students. If you do not adhere to these rules you may be banned from using the labs. Any student caught vandalizing the labs, tampering with or stealing computer equipment could be charged by the police and their enrolment with Curtin College could be terminated and legal action may be taken. Lab Weekdays Weekend 205.228a 8:00-23:00 10:00-17:00 205.228b 8:00-23:00 10:00-17:00 205.229 8:00-23:00 10:00-17:00 205.230 8:00-17:00 Closed 205.313 8:00-17:00 Closed Printing Black and white printing is available in all Curtin College labs. Students must pay for printing and are charged at a rate of 10 cents per page. All new students receive $10 credit (100 free pages). Printing credits can be purchased at Level 1 Reception (min $10). Colour printing or photocopying can be done at Curtin Robertson Library. Common Room The Curtin College Student Common room (located between Buildings 205 and 206 on Level 2) is available for all students to study, eat lunch and relax with friends. It is air-conditioned and is equipped with a sink, microwaves, a fridge and a kettle. An internal phone is on the wall next to the notice board for on-campus communication. Students can use this phone to contact < Home Index > reception by dialling 4888, or to contact Curtin Security by dialling 4444. Students may use the notice boards in the Common Room, however notices must be in English and must be stamped at reception prior to being displayed. Library The Robertson Library is situated on the Bentley campus at Curtin College University, with collections and facilities spread over five levels. Curtin College students are permitted to use the library lending facilities, however are unable to access the library computers for any work other than searching the library catalogue. The library combines online resources with a quality collection of print materials to support teaching, learning and research. Most electronic resources are available 24 hours a day. Friendly library staff can assist with all information needs. You will need your current Curtin College Student ID Card to borrow books from the Library. You can borrow up to 20 books for 6 weeks. However all items are subject to recall. www Chaplaincy Services Students at both the College and University have access to free and confidential chaplaincy services which are provided for the benefit of the Curtin community. Visiting Chaplains from a diversity of religious orientations are active on campus. Presently these include various Christian traditions including Anglican, Baptist and Roman Catholic and other traditions such as Baha’i, Buddhist and Muslim. A prayer and meditation space and a reflection garden are available for people of any faith. For more details refer to the Faith services and facilities page on the Curtin University website. www Food & Beverage Outlets There are at least 11 different eateries on the Curtin campus with choices including cafés, canteens and a tavern that regularly stages live music. Students who are members of the Curtin Student Guild will receive discount at some outlets. www.library.curtin.edu.au Online Library Access Curtin College students are able to access online resources through the following link: www card (e.g. C9000….), and the password is the student’s date of birth written in the following numerical sequence YYYYMMDD (e.g. 19900131) libguides.library.curtin.edu.au/curtinpathway-students To log in students must their enter their student id as shown on their student Page 24 Curtin Stadium Curtin’s new indoor, multi-purpose, health, recreation and events facility offers a coed gymnasium, ladies studio and group fitness studio with spin room, a sports hall and two outdoor volleyball courts. Curtin College students are welcome to become members of the facility with spin < Home Index > room, a sports hall and two outdoor volleyball courts. Curtin College students are welcome to become members of the facility. Fees For more details refer to the Curtin Stadium page on the Curtin University website. Tuition Fees Continuing students are required to pay their tuition fees before the study period commences. Students who are unable to pay their tuition on time should contact the Finance department at the College as soon as possible to avoid having their enrolment cancelled. For information on your tuition fees, please see reception or email fees@ curtincollege.edu.au Fee-Help Curtin College is an approved FEE-HELP provider. FEE-HELP is a loan scheme that assists eligible fee paying student’s pay all or part of their tuition fees. Australian Citizen or students holding a Permanent Humanitarian Visa studying a Diploma program at Curtin College may be eligible for FEE-HELP (the scheme is not available for Certificate IV or Tertiary Access Programs). For further information on FEE-HELP, pick up a brochure and application form from reception. www.studyassist.gov.au Page 25 < Home Index > Scholarships Curtin College merit scholarships are awarded each study period. A student www with the highest grade point average in four or more subjects (100 credit points) will each receive a scholarship. The winner of the scholarship will receive full tuition for the next period of study with Curtin College (please note that scholarships do not include the ‘degree’ programs at Curtin University). For more information please refer to the Scholarship Policy on the Curtin College website. Other Fees Document Reprints (e.g. Academic Transcripts or Certificates) $20 per copy Confirmation of study letter $20 (free for current students) Unit Outlines $5 each Credit card payment will attract a 1.5% surcharge. For more information on how to pay your fees, please pick up a flyer from Reception, or download one from the Student Portal [Forms & Info/Forms and Documents] Refunds Curtin College Refund Policy provides guidance to prospective, commencing and continuing students on the circumstances under which students are eligible for fee refunds. For more information please refer to the Refund Policy on the Curtin College website. www How to pay Students can pay fees by using a credit card, bank draft, BPay, personal cheque, or EFTPOS. Curtin College is unable to accept cash payments over the counter for any amount greater than $50. Payments by telegraphic transfer must be done well in advance of the fees deadline as often these take up to 5 days to reach the College. Please remember to include bank transfer fees and your student ID with any transfer. A copy of your transaction receipt should be emailed to fees@curtincollege.edu.au. Page 26 < Home Index > International Students International Students Conciliator The Department of Education Services (WA) offers a free mediation/conciliation service through the International Student Conciliator. The Conciliator attempts to resolve disputes between international students and institutions, as part of the institutions’ internal complaints and appeals procedure. For example, a student may be dissatisfied with some aspect of the education that is being offered by the institution and requests an explanation or review. The Conciliator is able to discuss issues of concern at any stage of the internal complaints and appeals procedure, however, will not become actively involved in the case until the parties have attempted to resolve the dispute themselves and that attempt has failed. www www.des.wa.gov.au Overseas Student Health Cover International students studying at Curtin College must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as a condition of their student visa. OSHC is a basic health insurance product designed to be equivalent to Medicare (for Australian citizens). It covers emergency medical conditions, public hospitals and most of the cost of visiting a doctor. Curtin College arranges health insurance through a preferred OSHC provider – Allianz Global Assistance. OSHC cover arranged through Curtin College is only valid for period noted on your policy or Allianz membership card. Students can order their own Membership card via the Allianz website : www www.oshcallianzassistance.com.au Students will need their membership number, which can be obtained from reception. Students are permitted to have OSHC cover with another provider as long as it meets the Australian Government criteria. Proof of cover must be provided to the College otherwise you will automatically be billed for cover through Allianz. To find a doctor or view the services covered by Allianz, visit their website. Your Student Visa If you are in Australia as an international student you will have received a visa which allows you to study in Australia. Page 27 < Home Index > All student visas have conditions or rules attached to them which you must follow. You can see a list of all the conditions at www.immi.gov.au/Study/Pages/Study. aspx Failure to adhere to these rules could mean that you will be asked to leave Australia and have your visa taken from you. General Info Please note that Curtin College is not allowed to give advice about immigration matters but we will be happy to help you find any information that you might need. Contact Details Building 205, Curtin University Kent Street Bentley 6845 Western Australia P: +61 8 9266 4888 F: +61 8 9266 4889 E: help@curtincollege.edu.au Opening Hours The Curtin College office and reception area are open at the following times: Monday 8:00am to 4:00pm Tuesday 8:00am to 4:30pm Wednesday 8:00am to 4:30pm Thursday 8:00am to 4:30pm Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm The office may also be closed at other times due to staff meetings or other events, including some public holidays. Students will be advised of closures via the student email account and notices at reception. Page 28 < Home Index > Student Portal The Student Portal contains important information relevant to studies such as emails, unit outlines, course notes and enrolment details and future events. The Portal also contains personal information, results, timetable, fees calculator, fees balance, and attendance for each student. Students receive their own login and password to access these details. This information is provided to students at orientation. You can access the Student Portal via the College’s website or directly at www learning.cic.wa.edu.au Students need to check the Student Portal daily to read important notices and access emails from Curtin College Staff. Emergency Evacuation At all times during an emergency follow the instructions of the Lecturer or Building and Floor Wardens. 1. On hearing the alert tone, collect personal belongings and immediately leave the building via the nearest and safest emergency exit route. Obey all instructions by wardens and emergency services at all times. All doors should be closed (but not locked) on leaving. person until emergency services arrive. 3. Walk quickly and calmly to the designated assembly area for your building or as advised by a Warden or Fire and Rescue Services personnel. 4. Remain at the assembly area (in groups) until instructed to leave by a Warden or Fire and Rescue Services personnel. 5. Do not re-enter the building until informed that it is safe to do so by a Warden or Fire and Rescue Services personnel. Do not enter the building when the alarm is sounding. Smoke Free Curtin University is a Smoke Free campus. This means that no one is not able to smoke anywhere on campus including buildings and outdoor areas. If you need to smoke you will need to leave the campus. Anyone caught smoking on campus may incur a $100 fine. Campus Map An interactive campus map can be found on the Curtin University website. http://properties.curtin.edu.au/ maps/ www 2. To assist persons with a disability ask them how you can help. Do not attempt to carry or hurry people. In multi-storey buildings, assist to the nearest fire isolated stairwell, ensure the building warden is advised and wait with the Page 29 < Home Index > Lift Room 313 Room 311a Level 3 Room 312 Room 311c Stairs to Level 3 & Ground Floor Room 317 Room 310b Room 310c Room 310a Room 206.229 Level 2 Stairs to Level 2 & Ground Floor Room 206.210 Lift i Common Room Stairs to Level 3 & Ground Floor Emergency Exit Staff Lab 228a Lab 228b Lab 229 Stairs to Ground Floor Curitn College Academic Office Lab 230 Stairs to Level 2 Curtin University is a clean air campus Smoking is not permitted Reception i Entrance Page 30 i Level 1 Ground Floor Stairs to Level 3 & Ground Floor < Home Index > Index Academic Calendars 4 Academic Drop In Sessions 19 Academic Language Enrichment Program (ALEP) 19 Academic Master Series 18 Academic Integrity 7 Academic Peers 19 Academic Status 14 Appeals8 Assessments12 Attendance7 Campus Map 31 Chaplaincy Services 26 Common Room 25 Computer Labs 25 Concession Card 3 Contact Details 30 Course Withdrawal 10 Curtin Stadium 26 Curtin University 15 Deferred Exams 13 Disability Service 20 Emergency Evacuation 31 Enrolment10 Exams12 Extension Units at Curtin University15 Feedback Management 24 Fee-Help27 Food & Beverage Outlets 26 Getting Involved 23 Grades13 Graduation15 Health21 How to pay 28 International Students Conciliator 29 Late Arrival 9 Library26 Maths Clinic 20 Orientation3 Orientation Workshops 18 Other Fees 28 Overseas Student Health Cover 29 Parking4 Policies6 Printing25 Public Transport 3 Refunds28 Scholarships28 Smoke Free 31 Student Activities 23 Student Cards 3 Student Conduct 5 Student Leaders & Mentors 23 Student Portal 31 Supplementary Exams 13 Text Books 12 Timetable4 Transport22 Tuition Fees 27 Under-age Students (Minors) 9 Unit Outlines 11 University Readiness Program 18 Welfare16 Your Safety 21 30 Your Student Visa Information contained in this document is current at time of issue and may be subject to change throughout the year.