Question 1

Are coding and programming the same thing?

Accepted Answer

Coding and programming go hand in hand but are different. Programming means developing the sequence of instructions (called programs) that computers follow to perform tasks. These instructions are then translated into code that software programs can understand. Programming languages include JavaScript, Python, C++ and many more.

Question 2

What will I learn in a programming or coding course?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your course, you’ll learn:

Systems analysis and design
Networking
Data and database management
Project management
Modular programming
Algorithms
Programming and markup languages, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript and Python
Program design
Software engineering and development
Web development
Problem solving
Cyber security

Question 3

How long is a programming or coding course?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the course and whether you choose something short or long-term. Here’s a general guide:

Course	Duration
Single subject	10-18 weeks
Short course	10-18 weeks
Undergraduate certificate	6 months (if full time)
Diploma	1 year (if full time)
Associate degree	2 years (if full time)
Bachelor degree	3 years (if full time)
Graduate certificate	6 months (if full time)
Graduate diploma	1 year (if full time)
Masters degree	2 years (if full time)

If you study a degree in programming or coding through Open Universities Australia, you have the flexibility to choose how many subjects you take per term. This means you can complete your qualification at a faster or slower pace than you would on campus.

Question 4

Why should I study programming and coding?

Accepted Answer

Programmers and coders are responsible for building our digital future. Computer programs, apps, software and websites are a part of our everyday lives, so you’ll become a much-needed expert.

In fact, software programming is one of the most in-demand fields in Australia. Completing a relevant course is a great way to future-proof your career.

Question 5

Why should I study programming and coding online?

Accepted Answer

Studying online means you don’t need to attend face-to-face tutorials and lectures. Instead, you can study in the evenings, on weekends or between work shifts, and gain industry experience alongside your qualification.

If you’re unsure what course is best for you, consider upskilling through a short course or single undergraduate subject to take programming and coding for a test drive. These study options are covered by HELP funding, which means you’re not obligated to pay anything upfront, and you’re not locked into a full qualification if you change your mind.

Question 6

Do I need any prior coding or programming experience to enrol?

Accepted Answer

You do not need any prior coding experience to enrol in an online programming or coding course through Open Universities Australia.

There may be other entry requirements depending on the course you are interested in. You can check what they are by clicking on a course that you want to learn more about.

Some of the undergraduate courses available through us don’t have any entry requirements. Instead, you can get in through our single subject entry pathway. When you go to enrol, we’ll recommend 2 to 4 subjects that you should start with. Once you successfully complete them, you can continue into the qualification, with full academic credit. This unique enrolment option isn’t available anywhere else.

Book a chat with us to find out more.

Question 7

What programming languages are covered in these courses?

Accepted Answer

Learning a programming or markup language is an essential tool for any IT career. You will learn the latest and most used languages in an online programming course. This could include:

C#
C++
CSS
HTML
PHP
Python
JavaScript
Java
SQL

Question 8

What career opportunities can I explore after studying programming or coding?

Accepted Answer

You will be qualified for a range of jobs once you’ve completed one of the online coding or programming courses through Open Universities Australia.

Programmers and coders work in both private and public sector roles including:

Web developer
Software developer or engineer
Systems analyst
App or game designer
IT manager
Network architect
Data architect
Cloud engineer or architect
Big data engineer
Front-end developer
JavaScript developer
UI developer

Question 9

How do I enrol?

Accepted Answer

Here at Open Universities Australia, we make enrolling online as straightforward as possible. To get started, find the course for you by browsing the options on this page. You can also compare different qualifications using our handy comparison tool, or request help from one of our student advisors.

When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Apply now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI) during this process.

Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.

Please note that enquiries and applications for some courses are handled directly by the university. If this is the case, it will be indicated on the course listing page.

For more information about enrolment, read our online self-service enrolling instructions. If you get stuck at any time, contact us and we’ll talk you through it.

Question 10

What if I’m not sure programming and coding is the right choice for me?

Accepted Answer

Interested in ICT but not sure what field of study you want to pursue? Have a look at the courses we recommend below:

Course	Duration
Single subject	10-18 weeks
Short course	10-18 weeks
Undergraduate certificate	6 months (if full time)
Diploma	1 year (if full time)
Associate degree	2 years (if full time)
Bachelor degree	3 years (if full time)
Graduate certificate	6 months (if full time)
Graduate diploma	1 year (if full time)
Masters degree	2 years (if full time)

Programming & coding courses

Introduction to Programming & coding