The inherent requirements framework at Charles Sturt University aligns with the institution's key policies and procedures to ensure both academic standards and inclusivity.
These include the
Inherent requirements as defined in the Admission Policy are “the fundamental components that demonstrate the abilities, knowledge and skills required to achieve the core learning outcomes of a course. They are based on course learning outcomes, which are designed to reflect professional standards. Reasonable adjustments can be made to meet the requirements, however, any adjustment must not fundamentally change the nature of the inherent requirement”.
The inherent requirements statements allow future students to make informed decisions about their study choices, helping them assess whether they possess the fundamental characteristics necessary to complete the course.
Inherent requirements statements help current students make informed decisions about their ability to continue in their course, particularly if their circumstances change throughout their studies.
If students find they are unable to meet the inherent requirements, they can explore alternative study pathways that may be better suited to their capabilities and goals.
Inherent requirements are not the same as admission requirements and graduate outcomes.
Inherent requirements encompass the physical, cognitive, and behavioural attributes required for students to fully engage with their studies and successfully complete their course.
Inherent requirements are essential skills and abilities required to achieve the Course Learning Outcomes. These requirements are critical for students to engage fully with their studies and fulfill professional and accreditation standards. While inherent requirements focus on situations where a disability, acute injury, or health condition may impact a student’s ability to meet these requirements, they also allow for reasonable adjustments where possible.
Reasonable adjustments can be made for students where appropriate to ensure they have the support needed to meet these inherent requirements while maintaining the integrity of the course outcomes.
The admission requirements refer to the minimum academic and non-academic requirements a student must meet to be accepted into a course, as outlined in the Admissions Policy. Course specific admission requirements can be found in the Online Course Brochure.
These requirements ensure that admitted students are academically prepared and possess the necessary skills, including proficiency in English and relevant educational competencies, to successfully engage in and progress through their studies at the university.
Examples of the skills that contribute to students meeting admission requirements include:
These competencies form the baseline expectations for students to succeed in their academic journey.
Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) are clear and specific statements describing what students will be able to do at the successful completion of the course of student. GLOs are measurable and assessed as part of each course.
By embedding GLOs into course design, Charles Sturt University ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of their profession and make meaningful contributions to society.
In accordance with the Disability and Work or Study Adjustment Policy, Equal Opportunity Policy, and Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Policy, the University applies the principle of reasonable adjustment to remove unnecessary barriers to all students, including those with disabilities, acute injuries, or health conditions. The Disability and Work or Study Adjustment Policy indicates reasonable adjustments as administrative, environmental, or procedural alterations needed to eliminate unnecessary barriers to effective work or study on an equal basis with others. An adjustment is considered reasonable if it considers the requirements of the students and balances the interests of all parties involved. An organisation may refuse to implement an adjustment if it can demonstrate that doing so would cause unjustifiable hardship, as described in the Disability Standards for Education 2005 3.3, 3.4.
The University is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive study environment that enables students with disability to participate in University life on the same basis as other members of the University community.
Reasonable adjustment as defined in the Disability and Work or Study Adjustment Policy refers to “the administrative, environmental, or procedural alterations that are required to remove unnecessary barriers to people with disability working or studying effectively and on the same basis as others.” While reasonable adjustments may be made to aspects of course delivery, assessment procedures, or examination arrangements, these adjustments must not lower academic standards or interfere with the ability to demonstrate essential skills or knowledge required for the course.
Reasonable adjustments aims to support students to meet the course requirements without altering or diluting the learning outcomes or the competencies essential for professional accreditation.
Inherent requirements encompass the physical, cognitive, and behavioural attributes required for students to fully engage with their studies and successfully complete their course.
Inherent requirements are essential skills and abilities required to achieve the Course Learning Outcomes. These requirements are critical for students to engage fully with their studies and fulfill professional and accreditation standards. While inherent requirements focus on situations where a disability, acute injury, or health condition may impact a student’s ability to meet these requirements, they also allow for reasonable adjustments where possible.
Examples of inherent requirements include:
Reasonable adjustments can be made for students where appropriate to ensure they have the support needed to meet these inherent requirements while maintaining the integrity of the course outcomes.
Inherent requirements ensure students meet the essential standards for academic and professional outcomes of the course whilst supporting inclusivity, accessibility and academic integrity
Yes, inherent requirements different from admission requirements and graduate outcomes.
Inherent Requirements: These focus on the fundamental competencies students need during their studies, particularly in scenarios where disabilities or health conditions may require reasonable adjustments.
Admission Requirements: These are the minimum academic and non-academic criteria students must meet to gain entry into a course, such as English proficiency or foundational skills in numeracy and literacy.
Graduate Outcomes: These represent the essential knowledge, skills, and attributes students acquire by the end of the course, reflecting professional and academic standards.
You should periodically review your ability to meet inherent requirements, especially if you experience significant changes in your physical, mental, or personal circumstances. Regular self-evaluation ensures you can identify any challenges early and seek appropriate support.
If a student is unable to meet inherent requirements, even with reasonable adjustments, the university may assist in exploring alternative study options or pathways better aligned with the student’s capabilities and goals.
Your Accessibility and Inclusion Advisor will be able to help with assessing if a reasonable adjustment is possible and include in your Study Access Plan.
No, not all courses have specific inherent requirements. However, for those that do, the requirements align with the course’s learning outcomes and professional or accreditation standards.
Each course with specific inherent requirements provides detailed statements available online. Check the course brochure for links to the IR documents.
Contact your course director or the university's disability support services. They can provide guidance on reasonable adjustments or alternative study options.
If your circumstances changes and you face challenges in meeting inherent requirements, consult your course director as soon as possible.
