What to study over summer: the ultimate summer courses guide
The summer months are a perfect time to get in some extra learning. From languages to design to business courses, let’s see what’s on offer.
Ah, summertime. Longer days and warmer weather are here and many of us are ready to rejoice. Some of us, though, would prefer to shut all the doors and blast the A/C to arctic levels.
Whatever category you fall into, the summer months could be the ideal time to sign up to an extra subject or enrol in a short course. Learning something new is a New Year’s resolution for a lot of us… and imagine just how good you’ll feel if you tick it off in the first part of the year.
From language learning to coding and IT to sociology, there are plenty of summer courses available. Let’s see if anything tickles your fancy.
Why study over summer
There are many good reasons to hit the books over summer. You may want to get a head start on your course for the coming year; or you could just be keen to stretch your brain in new ways by taking on a language or arts subject.
If it’s the former, you’ll put yourself a subject ahead and study in a quiet period, which could take the pressure off you a bit for the rest of the year.
The best summer courses
There are loads of options for summertime learning. Many of these are single subjects, available to study online. Make sure you check the enrolment and start dates for each, as they vary.
Programming and digital
There’s never been a better time to pick up some coding and digital skills. Make the most of your summer schedule by trying Web Design, Problem Solving and Programming or Introduction to Digital Media offered by the University of South Australia (enrol by 5th January for a 13th January start).
Languages
Many of us have language-learning on our New Year’s reso lists. Australian National University offers a suite of short language courses, which start towards the end of summer (17th February).
You can choose from Vietnamese, Tok Pisin, Thai, Turkish, Tetum, Gamilaraay and even Sanskrit, among others, offered at various levels. Enrol by 9th February.
IELTS
Speaking of languages, if you’re gearing up for the International English Language Testing System (or IELTS), the summer is a great, quiet time to get in some extra prep. Consider this IELTS Online General Training course with Macquarie University (enrol by 30th December for a 1st January start date).
Business and marketing
For those looking to hone their business skills, Curtin University offers a suite of postgraduate subjects over summer, including Organisational Strategy, Managerial Effectiveness and Executive Financial Decision Making (enrol by 29th December for a 6th January start).
Always been keen to add marketing skills to your CV? Have a look at Marketing Communications in a Digital World with the University of Adelaide (enrol by 26th January; start 3rd February).
Arts and humanities
If you have a bit of extra time and brain-space over summer, you may like to turn to a subject you’ve always been keen to explore in more depth.
Consider a humanities short course such as Politics and Citizenship in Australia with the University of South Australia (enrol by 5th January to start 13th January).
There’s also Introductory Psychology: People and Culture with La Trobe University (enrol by 29th December for a 6th January start), or Introducing Indigenous Australia with Macquarie University (enrol by 16th February to start 24th February).
Designing a summer study plan
So, you’re all signed up and ready to get going on your summer course. But, man, it’s nice out. You may need some tips on how to stay focused while your mates are down the beach. Consider the following:
1. Make yourself a timetable
At the beginning of your course, make sure you’re totally across the schedule and any assessment requirements and dates. Work backwards from there and sketch out a weekly timetable that allocates time for study—keeping things realistic and allowing some time for the unexpected to happen.
2. Take lots of breaks
An important one! Make sure you allow time to have fun and enjoy the summer too. Don’t skip out on every beach trip. You’ll feel better in the long run if you can keep things balanced.
3. Stay hydrated and nourished
Look after yourself when you’re studying. This goes for the whole year but, especially in the warm summer months, make sure you’re drinking lots of water and staying healthy. The benefits of this will flow through to your study.
4. Keep accountable
If you need a bit of extra help to stay on track while school’s out, consider telling a friend or family member about your plans. Ask them to check in with you at certain points, so you stay accountable. Maybe you’d even like to ‘body double’ and work alongside someone else who’s also trying to get something done.
Want even more summer courses?
If you’re keen to keep exploring what’s out there, browse all the course categories that are taking summer enrolments now. There are heaps to choose from!
