Sunshine Coast Student Support Services

The University of the Sunshine Coast offers numerous student support services that aim to assist and facilitate their efforts of completing programs and degrees. Here are brief descriptions of them:

• Academic skills are developed through the availability of workshops that focuses on improving essay writing, critical thinking, and report writing. The students are also taught the importance of avoiding plagiarism.

• The university also maintains a registry of accommodations offered to students though its Students Services. This is particularly useful for incoming freshmen who are looking for suitable places to stay.

• There are also several sporting and community activities held all throughout the year and are designed to encourage social interaction among students. The university also participates in several sporting events held within the state and the country.

• The careerconnection program aims to aid the career development of each and every student of the university. Included in the program are counseling, workshops to improve job hunting skills, sponsorship of career fairs, and job placements.

• There are several professional psychologists that provide counseling services to all students. These personnel are not only qualified to handle academic matters but also those of the personal kind that students experience. In addition, there is also a Peer Adviser Program available to provide assistance.

• A support program for disable students is also available, through the assistance provided by the Disability Services Officer. The university recognizes that disability occurs in several forms and aims to address these matters the best way possible.

• The university also established the Tertiary Enabling Program to facilitate the academic performance of students who wish for improvement. Though these courses have no impact on the overall grades, higher levels of performance have been reported by those who choose to avail of the program, which takes form in weekly tutorials.

• A special program, the English language support program, is available to foreign students, particularly non-English speaking ones. This program not only encourages the development of English language and writing skills but also aims to improve the overall academic performance of students. There is also the USC International student services that provide academic and personal assistance whenever needed. Social events and tours to nearby attractions are also organized.

• For students experiencing several challenges while studying, be it of personal or professional kind, assistance are given in order for them to pass the courses they have taken. This service is particularly tailored for freshmen, those belonging in disadvantaged groups, or those who failed a course and are contemplating dropping out. Freshmen can also participate with the Student Mentor Program that will help them adjust to the university environment better.

• Indigenous students are encouraged to enroll at the University of the Sunshine Coast, with an Indigenous Services program available to address their specific needs and concerns. Financial assistance is also available. In relation, the university also participates in the National Indigenous Cadetship Project which aids in the career development of indigenous students.

• The Work Integrated Learning program aims to provide students with industry and professional experiences while still studying. This includes internships, work placements, practicums, among others.

• The Information Technology Services offers assistance to students who find difficulty using high technology systems that were integrated into the campus.

• The university also assigns a Student Wellbeing and Health Officer that students can approach for financial advice, financial assistance, health information, and referrals. The officer can also provide assistance regarding tenancy problems.

• Finally, the USC Student Guild is an organization independent from the university and aims to look out for the welfare of students. There are several perks available to its members, while any student can take advantage of several of its services such as cable television, listings of accommodations and used textbooks, and DVD and book exchange.