Yes. All courses listed herein, whether from Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct), Central Queensland University, Deakin University or Gradschools.com are done via Distance Learning so they can be completed from anywhere in the world.

Enrolling in Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) courses from overseas?

To secure your enrolment, an additional charge of $60.00 AUD for postage and handling is required. This is in addition to the course prices shown on the site. When enrolling you will need to pay in Australian Dollars (AUD).

Accreditation, Memberships and Affiliations?

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) is a Registered Training Organisation registered with the NSW Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board (VETAB). Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) is a member of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET), and is also registered with The International Council for Distance Education (ICDE).

NSW Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board (VETAB)
The Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board is a NSW statutory body established by the NSW Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Act 1990.

About VETAB
. Registers organisations that provide vocational education and training
. Monitors Registered Training Organisations to ensure they continue to comply with national standards
. Grants quality endorsed status to training organisations that demonstrate a commitment to the continued improvement of vocational education and training
. Accredits vocational education and training courses
. Provides advice on registration, accreditation and quality endorsement
. Approves registered training organisations to provide education services to overseas students
. Accreditation is the quality assurance process used to formally recognise national qualifications not covered by nationally endorsed training packages.

Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET)
ACPET is primarily responsible for representing the private education sector in negotiation with government and industry. ACPET also provides advice to member institutions regarding appropriate industry standards, and course development in terms of linkages with relevant industrial and commercial bodies, in both regional and metropolitan contexts. ACPET also monitors ethical standards and best practice to ensure the relevancy of course content to industry requirements, and the quality of curriculum development and delivery.

The International Council for Distance Education (ICDE)
ICDE is the global membership organisation of educational institutions, national and regional associations, corporations, educational authorities and agencies in the fields of open learning, distance education, and flexible, life-long learning. The main mission of the ICDE today is to provide leadership and facilitate cooperation, development and communication at the global level in distance and virtual learning.

University partners
Central Queensland University and Deakin University are fully accredited by the Australian Government.

Are the University awards recognized overseas?

Yes Australia, the United States, United Kingdom & European Community each have a different system to assure the quality of the numerous award-granting institutions.

In 1995, the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) was established, by the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment Training and Youth Affairs (MCEETYA) to provide for the national articulation of awards offered in Australian vocational education and training, and higher education sectors. The AQF maintains a public register of endorsed post-compulsory education providers and accreditation authorities. The higher education institutions and accreditation authorities on the AQF registers have the endorsement of Australian Education Ministers represented in MCEETYA and as such, the list protects the integrity of Australian higher education.

Furthermore, the Accrediting Commission of the US Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) externally accredits Deakin Universities distance education coursework courses: http://www.detc.org/degree.html#deakin

DETC accreditation guarantees that Deakin University provides the quality of education it claims to offer, that it operates on a sound financial basis, offers approved programs of study, follows recruitment and admissions policies that meet set standards and has qualified instructors, as well as adequate facilities and equipment.

The DETC Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognised accrediting agency and is a recognised member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). For more information about the DETC, please visit: www.detc.org

In addition, Universities the world over will accept legitimate University credits from other institutions. In the USA, the system is called ACE, in the UK it's CATS, etc. Individual Universities DO NOT publicise specific Universities whose credits they recognise. The universities will look at the syllabus for the subjects completed. They will look for similar structure/assessment/etc in making a comparison and thereafter credit assessment.

Do students of Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) receive student visas?

No. Because Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) courses are Distance Education based you can study from anywhere in the world. Therefore they do not offer student visas.

How long after I enroll will I receive the first section of my course?

Because Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) sends everything via post it is difficult to give an exact time frame but generally you should allow 2 to 3 weeks.

Do you offer degrees?

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) do not offer degrees. However many of their course can help you gain entry into Australian Universities and may also lead to credit points for the course you have completed.

Our other partners, namely; Central Queensland University, Deakin University and the distanceXchange do offer accredited degree programs. In addition Gradschools.com has an excellent database of distance learning University courses.

How can I pay for my course?

All fees are to be made payable DIRECTLY to Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) Pty Ltd and payment made in Australian Dollars.

Modes of payment - credit card, cheque, bankers draft, Telegraphic Transfer (T/T) or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) directly to Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) Pty Ltd.

Address for mailing of cheques or bankers drafts:

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) Pty Ltd
Locked Bag 900
Artarmon, NSW
AUSTRALIA 1570

Why Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) home learning?

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) allows you to study at home to get the training you need and the job you want, without leaving your front door. In today's hectic society, at home learning is recognised as one of the most convenient methods of education allowing you to:

Study at your own place. Choose where you want to study. You can study in the comfort of your own home, while traveling to and from work, even while on holidays. That's the beauty of at home learning, it's up to you.

At your own pace. With no classes, you work at a pace that suits you. You learn at your own pace so you avoid working too fast or too slow.

In your own time. At home learning means no schedules to try to fit into your lifestyle. You choose when you want to study. Anytime.

With qualified tutors. Tutors are qualified in their field with many years of experience. Many are industry leaders in their field of expertise. The tutors are there to give you expert advice, assess your work and answer your questions.

And all home learning materials are included. Everything you need to complete your course is included at no extra cost. There is no need to purchase expensive textbooks and materials, or conduct library research and so you save money.

At a price you can afford. Courses are very competitively priced. At home learning has never been more affordable.

With an experienced organisation. Since 1921, Thomson has provided quality home training for over 600,000 people.

And many home learning courses are nationally accredited. Many Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) home study courses are nationally accredited by ANTA (Australian National Training Authority) and by VETAB (Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board), which means that your course has been prepared to standards accepted by industry and government. Furthermore, you may receive credit towards studies in a similar field.

Do you recognise my professional experience?

Recognition of Prior Learning, also known as RPL, is the recognition given to the knowledge and skills a student has acquired through work experience, education, training, and life experiences.

The Recognition of Prior Learning process involves matching the student's knowledge and skills to the learning outcomes of nationally recognised courses to determine if the student should be given credit for specific modules.

In other words, Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) acknowledges that relevant knowledge and skills can be acquired through a variety of means, not just through formal education and training.

What are the benefits of Recognition of Prior Learning?

Recognition of Prior Learning provides formal recognition for your existing knowledge and skills, so you dont have to spend time having to re learn what you already know, or demonstrate skills you can already perform. The benefits for you are:
. You can gain your qualification in a reduced amount of time
. You can concentrate your time and energy on learning new knowledge and skills, starting your Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) course at the right level for you.
. Any credit given to you through the Recognition of Prior Learning process can be recognised by employers to assist with your career progression.

How does Recognition of Prior Learning work?

Essentially Recognition of Prior Learning involves providing evidence to establish that your current knowledge and skills match particular modules from the course you are enrolled in.

Collecting evidence to establish your claim for Recognition of Prior Learning is the most important part in the whole process. Your RPL support person can assist you by providing objective advice and support. You can also contact us to get further assistance during any stage of the RPL process.

Once Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) receives your Recognition of Prior Learning application, the evidence and information you have provided for each module will be assessed by qualified Recognition of Prior Learning assessors.

You may be contacted during the assessment process by the Recognition of Prior Learning assessors and asked to provide further information, or to clarify details about the evidence you have supplied.

Please note: To ensure Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) can process your application in a timely manner, you must use the form provided to you in your Welcome Kit. If an application is incomplete, incorrectly filled out or the form is unattached, it will be returned to you without it being assessed.

Please DO NOT forward original copies of certificates, testimonials and resumes

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) Graduation?

When you have successfully completed all course requirements and your account is paid in full, you will achieve your goal; a Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) Certificate/Qualification.

To be awarded your Certificate/Qualification you must have:

. Successfully completed all assessments.
. Be deemed to be competent in your area of study.
. Met all your financial obligations.
. Completed on-the-job components, if required.

Grades
Upon successful completion of your course, you will receive an academic transcript that outlines your grades.

Further Education
As a valued student, they welcome you to continue your training once you have completed your studies. You will be rewarded with a 10% saving off any course.

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) Tutors?

Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) are proud of the experience and professionalism of their tutors, who willingly share their knowledge and offer guidance to its students through out their courses. As the tutors specialise in individual fields, you may discover that you have more than one tutor in your course. This ensures that you receive the best possible advice in your chosen subject and will give you the advantage of receiving more than one perspective to draw upon.

Can studying be a simple a 1,2,3?

Rule No. 1: Find a regular place to study
The best place to study is at a desk or table with a comfortable chair. Find a place where you can leave your materials set up and not be disturbed. We recommend a desk as the best place to study because there are important ergonomic factors that you need to consider when studying. Ergonomics is the study of how surrounding physical environments impact on humans.

For example, repetitive and prolonged use of a computer, keyboard and mouse, or reading and writing can lead to muscle aches and discomfort. Posture and the position of the components in a workstation with respect to the placement of your body can help create an environment that is ergonomically beneficial and highly productive. If you follow these tips you could avoid eye, neck and back-related muscle stress and strain.

Rule No. 2: Follow an effective study plan
Before you start studying, establish a daily or weekly schedule that you know you will be able to follow. You may not be able to study each day of the week, but try to find some time for studying at least two or three times a week. A good way to organise your study time is to firstly create a list of all your daily activities. Next, organise these daily activities into a weekly plan, allocating time for each specific task. Always be realistic with your time so that you do stick to your study plan. Here is an example of how to set out a colourful weekly planner.

Rule No. 3: Have a specified purpose
Once you have established a weekly schedule, set up a timetable for the whole course. According to your Order of Studies and the number of modules in your course, determine how many lessons you want to finish in a period of time, say a month. Once you begin, you may find the goals you have set yourself are unrealistic. If so, review your timetable and reschedule to a more achievable timeframe. Having a realistic study plan will help you to organise your time and achieve your goals. You will feel less stressed about your studies and this will make the time you spend enjoying yourself guilt-free. Remember; it is just as important to your studies for you to have time to relax. Keep your completed assignments all together and make a list of the completed modules as you go. Pin this up next to your timetable to keep you motivated and focused on your achievements!

Is there a study or student community to which I can belong?

Yes. You can get in touch with other students and join the student community. There are specific discussion forums where you can discuss aspects of your course and share ideas, as well as general conversation areas. It works like any other forum, you can read messages, write responses and start your own discussions.

How do I enrol?

Enrolment is easy. Click here or on the enrol link located on any of our course information pages and follow the simple steps. If you still need further assistance, you can contact a Course Advisor on + 617 3899 8214 or by email (click here)

What additional items will I need to purchase if I study with Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct)?

Once you've enrolled in the course, you dont need to pay for any additional materials. They will provide you with all the textbooks and study aides you need to complete your course, at no extra cost.

Will my Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) course provide me with exemptions as if I choose to under take further study at University?

Yes. Like TAFE and OTEN, they have articulation agreements with many major Universities, which means you can go on to higher education (such as a degree course) and receive recognition for the subjects you have already completed with them.

When will I receive my first set of course materials?

Following your payment of either the deposit or full course fees your course materials will be sent in the next 48 hours. Depending on the postal system to your area, you can expect your materials in as little as five to ten working days.

How long will my course take?

Because you can study at your own pace, you can determine when you finish your course. You have up to three years to complete your course, and if you will need more time you can contact Student Services and apply for an extension.

Will I receive a Certificate?

You will receive an attractive certificate upon completion of your course that you can show to friends, relatives and prospective employers with pride.

Are there any pre-requisites for my course?

Most courses require you to have no prior knowledge of the subject. If you are required to have prior knowledge, it will be contained in the information specific to your course.

Do I need to attend exams?

Most courses do not require you to attend an exam. If you are required to attend an exam, this information is contained in the information specific to your course.

How is distance learning different from classroom-based courses offered by other education institutions like TAFE?

. Studying by correspondence gives you greater flexibility. Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) students have the ability develop their own learning schedule around current commitments. Face-to-face providers like TAFE require students to attend class dictated by a formal timetable.
. Studying by correspondence with Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) means you can look after your children at home, while you are earning your education. Studying a classroom-based course through someone like TAFE means arranging childcare, and that can be expensive and inconvenient.
. There are no formalised timetables at Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct), which means you can complete your course around full-time work. This eliminates any potential financial strain and gives you more time to spend with your family and friends. It also means you can complete your course in less time than the same course at TAFE, or another classroom-based institution.
. Most classroom-based educators such as TAFE require a minimum class attendance rate of 80% in order for you to pass the course. As there are no classes to attend when you study via correspondence, you have the flexibility to take a break from study, go on holiday, or recover from illness with no penalty.
. Studying at traditional, classroom-based institutions like TAFE means you will need to pay fees to the Student Association or Student Union. Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) give you access to the student forum and all student services free of charge.
. Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) have no formal timetables which means they accept enrolments at any time of the year so you can begin your course at a time that suits you. Other educators like TAFE usually have two set enrolment intakes each year, which means you must start your course on one of those 2 dates. Plus, if you miss one intake, you may need to wait approximately 6 months before they have their next intake.
. Unlike TAFE, studying with Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct) means no classes to attend. This saves you time and money traveling to and from class and gives you greater freedom to decide when and where you want to study. Plus, you dont have the hassle of traveling to class on public transport or paying for parking.

Do I need to purchase expensive textbooks?

No. All learning materials are contained in your course fees so you know what you are paying for when you enrol. There is no need to purchase expensive textbooks or spend time conducting library research so you save time and money.

What if I need help with my course?

Your highly qualified tutor is able to guide you through the exercises and answer your questions, so even though you are at home, you are never alone. Your assignments will be marked by your tutor, who will give you feedback on all written assignments, ensuring you are on the right track and motivated to achieve your goals.

How many people study with Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Education Direct)?

Over 36,000 men and women are studying with them right now.

Do you have any tips for online study success?

Yes. These tips are reprinted with courtesy of the University of Illinois

Take full advantage of online conferencing. Whatever you can do to avoid feeling isolated is extremely important, and participating in online conferences will give you access to other students who are taking the same course as you at the same time.

Participate! Whether you are working alone, or in a group, contribute your ideas, perspective and comments on the subject you are studying, and read about those of your classmates. Your instructor is not the only source of information in your course, you can gain great insight from your peers and they can learn from you as well.

Take the program and yourself seriously. Elicit the support of your colleagues, family and friends before you start out on your online adventure. This built-in support system will help you tremendously since there will be times when you will have to sit at your computer for hours at a stretch in the evenings and on weekends. When most people are through with work and want to relax is most likely when you will be bearing down on your course work. It helps to surround yourself with people who understand and respect what you are trying to do.

Make sure you have a private space where you can study. This will help lend importance to what you are doing as well. Your own space where you can shut the door, leave papers everywhere, and work in peace is necessary. If you try to share study space with the dining room or bedroom, food or sleep will take priority over studying.

Become a true advocate of distance learning. Discuss the merits of the process with whoever will listen. In order to be successful in this new educational environment, you must truly believe in its potential to provide quality education which is equal to, if not better than the traditional face-to-face environment. In discussing the value of online learning, you will reinforce its merits for yourself.

Log on to your course every single day or a minimum of 5-6 days a week. Once you get into the online conferencing system, you will be eager to see who has commented on your postings and read the feedback of your instructor and peers. You will also be curious to see who has posted something new that you can comment on. If you let too many days go by without logging on to your course discussion group, you will get behind and find it very difficult to catch up.

Take advantage of your anonymity. One of the biggest advantages of the online format is that you can pursue your studies without the judgments typical in a traditional classroom. Unless you are using video conferencing, no one can see you, there are no stereotypes, and you dont have to be affected by raised eyebrows, rolled eyeballs, other students stealing your thunder, or people making other non verbal reactions to your contributions. You dont have to feel intimidated or upstaged by students who can speak faster than you because you can take all of the time you need to think your ideas through and compose a response before posting your comments to your class.

Be polite and respectful. Just because you are anonymous, doesn't mean you should let yourself go. Remember, you are dealing with real people on the other end of your modem. Being polite and respectful is not only common sense, it is absolutely obligatory for a productive and supportive online environment. In a positive online environment, you will feel valued by your instructor, valued by your classmates and your own work will have greater value as well.

Speak up if you are having problems. Remember that your professor cannot see you, so you must be absolutely explicit with your comments and requests. If you are having technical difficulties, or problems understanding something about the course, you MUST speak up otherwise there is no way that anyone will know that something is wrong. Also, if you dont understand something, chances are several people have the same question. If another student is able to help you, he/she probably will, and if you are able to explain something to your classmates in need, you will not only help them out, you will reinforce your own knowledge about the subject.

Apply what you learn. Apply everything you learn as you learn it and you will remember it more readily. If it is possible, take the things you learn in your online course today and use them in your workplace tomorrow. Also, try to make connections between what you are learning and what you do or will do in your job. Contributing advice or ideas about the real-world as it applies to the subject matter you are studying helps you to internalize what you are learning, and gives valuable insight to your classmates who will benefit from your experience.

What is the relationship between JournalismClasses.com and distanceX.com?

JournalismClasses.com is a wholly owned internet property of the distanceXchange group.

How does JournalismClasses.com work with its partners?

JournalismClasses.com is an Official Representative for each of our Institutional partners. In sort, we offer initial academic counselling to prospective students as well as assisting you with course application and successful enrolment. By focusing on our core skills in customer service, we are able to provide you with an exemplary level of personal attention, advice and assistance. This is critical during the enrolment period, before you get settled into your studies. Our service is FREE - our fees are paid by our partners.

How do I receive my free copy of the Encyclopedia Britannica?

Enrol online and receive a Britannica Double CD, at no cost to you. Your FREE double CD set features 42,000 articles from the Encyclopedia Britannica covering art, history, geography, technology, pop culture, and more. With extra features such as a dictionary, thesaurus, atlas, and multimedia. It's a comprehensive resource for the home, school, or office.

Why do I get the $200 discount?

For all enrolments (including payment) that occur between January to September, students are entitled to a $200 discount off the course fee. Enrolments (including payment) that occur between October to December will be levied at the full fee rate. This is done to distribute enrolments and study resources evenly throughout the year.

Do I need to pay the GST (Goods and Services Tax)?

International enrollees do NOT pay the GST. All prices listed on this website EXclude the GST levy. Furthermore, the accredited courses are exempt from the GST.