Frequently asked questions

All you need to know before you book.

  • What new courses are coming up?

    We announce new programs throughout the year as soon as they're available for booking. All courses currently available are listed on the main Community Education web page.

  • When will the next 10 Great Books series be announced, and how can I ensure I get a ticket?

    10 Great Books is our most popular program; we have been able to expand access to the program by delivering it fully online since 2021.

    All Community Education program bookings are on a purely first-come-first-serve basis. We do not hold or reserve tickets.

  • Do your courses have any prerequisites or require any prior learning?

    None of our programs require any specific prior learning. They are designed and best enjoyed as ‘continuing’ adult education. If you’re unsure whether one of our programs is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch using the contact details on the program page.

  • Will I need to complete any assignments or reading outside of the designated course hours?

    Our programs are non-assessed, informal learning opportunities. There are no assignments or set readings, but many programs do offer optional further readings if you're eager to delve deeper into the topic.

  • Are Community Education courses accredited? Can they count toward the completion of my degree?

    Faculty of Arts Community Education programs are informal, non-accredited programs. They do not count towards the completion of any University of Melbourne award program.

  • Can I get a certificate of participation for attending a course?

    Certificates of participation are available for all programs, on request.

  • What are your refund terms?

    Please let us know as soon as you become aware that you won’t be able to attend a program you’ve registered for. We are always happy to transfer your ticket to the name of a friend or family member, if you’re able to nominate someone to attend in your place.

    Alternatively, we can offer you a refund if you contact us 5 or more business days before the program begins.

  • What do I need to bring?

    You don’t need to bring anything to Community Education programs, except a curious mind. For online programs, you'll need a PC, laptop or tablet device, a stable internet connection, and a Zoom account for our live Q&As. For in-person programs, you can bring along a pen and paper should you wish to take any notes. We check names on arrival for in-person programs, so there is no need to print a ticket.

  • I’m interested in a program that has already passed – will it be repeated?

    Community Education programs are one-off experiences that are not repeated. Some programs run regularly but with all new content and presenters each year - for example, the annual 10 Great Books masterclass series.

  • Do you cater for particular access requirements?

    The Faculty of Arts Community Education team are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

    We endeavour to make sure all of our on-campus programs are accessible for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. You can refer to the University of Melbourne campus maps for detailed directions that avoid stairs and obstacles.

    For in-person programs, Auslan interpreters may be available for attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing. Hearing loops are also available in most lecture theatres on campus. Check the venue seating plans for the best positions.

    Printed course materials can be provided in larger font for attendees who have low vision. Guide dogs and other registered assistance dogs are welcome in all spaces at the University of Melbourne.

    The Faculty of Arts' Community Education programs recognise the Companion Card and Carer Card. Companion Card holders receive concession priced tickets to all programs, and a complimentary ticket for their companion. Carer Card holders receive concession priced tickets to all programs.

    Please let us know if you have any online accessibility requirements; we can arrange live captioning, and other tech support. All on-demand content produced for Community Education programs (e.g. video recordings) are professionally closed-captioned.

    If you have an access requirement that hasn't been mentioned here, or would you would like more information on a particular program's accessibility, please don't hesitate to get in touch by phone or email.

    Email: ellie.clay@unimelb.edu.au
    Phone: +61 3 8344 2543

  • Can I participate in an online course if I live interstate or overseas?

    Yes, we welcome interstate and international participants to join our online courses. Any live sessions held over Zoom are scheduled in Melbourne local time (AEDT/AEST) but in most cases will be recorded and available to watch after they occur.  Please get in touch using the details below if you have any further questions about participating in an online course.

  • What is the University's response to COVID-19 and COVIDSafe events?

    The University strongly encourages individuals to remain up to date with vaccinations for COVID-19 and other infectious illnesses, such as influenza, but does not require evidence of vaccination in order to access campus.

    Please do not come to an in-person event if you have any COVID-19 symptoms, including a fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, or loss or change in sense of taste or smell – however mild, even if you have a negative rapid antigen test result.

    You are welcome to wear a face mask for personal and community safety.

    For more information on the University's response to COVID-19, please visit the dedicated webpage.

Forum Theatre

Have a question that hasn't been answered?

We'd love to hear from you. Feel free to get in touch using the contact details on the course web page for the program you're interested in, or if your question doesn't relate to a specific course, contact:

Ellie Clay, Engagement and Partnerships Coordinator
Email: ellie.clay@unimelb.edu.au
Phone: +61 3 8344 2543