Year 10 students

There are two main levels of study at university: undergraduate and postgraduate. An undergraduate degree (usually a bachelor's, but occasionally an associate degree) is generally the first study you'll do at university. An undergraduate course gives you a broad knowledge base in your chosen subject. A postgraduate degree is for those who already hold a bachelor's or who have extensive work experience expertise in a subject. A postgraduate degree – whether a graduate certificate, diploma or master's – is more specialised than a bachelor's and typically involves more independent research. It's what you might well do after your bachelor's!

Well, first of all, you get the best of both worlds. Regional Australia is growing fast, meaning you get all the things you would normally find in cities... but with wide open spaces, clean air and less hustle and bustle thrown in for good measure. Our campuses our green, with sweeping views across the countryside. And that space means we can pack them with loads of learning facilities, where you get to put ideas into action, using equipment that you'll use when you enter the workplace. Oh, did we mention the kangaroos?

Our best advice is to base your HSC/VCE subject choices on your strengths, interests and personality. You might also want to consider which subjects are relevant to the sort of degree - and career - you want to go for next. While at Charles Sturt University, we don't have prerequisite subjects (subjects you absolutely have to do), it's worth thinking about what is going to help set you up for success at uni. For example, if you are interested in studying science, it's a good idea to choose at least some science subjects for Year 11 and 12. Although, if you dig science, you'll probably be doing that anyway!

Depending on your goals, the chances are that, yes, university is absolutely worth it. Besides the experiences you'll have – from maybe moving away from home for the first time, to really delving deep into a subject you love – a university degree is going to set you up for career success. As a graduate, you'll earn more, be able to apply for more jobs, and have the skills and confidence to really make your mark.

We don’t want finances to hold you back from your future. That’s why we’ve got more than $3 million in scholarships and grants that you can apply for. You could be eligible for a scholarships for any number of reasons, from your course or your location, to the things you do to help your community. On top of that, we have programs that can help you find a part-time job while you are studying – often one that gives you skills relevant to your course.