Student Support

Aboriginal and Islander students
Students with a disability
Academic support
Accommodation
Advocacy
Counselling
Equity and diversity
Mentors

Central Queensland University is committed to providing students with every opportunity to achieve success in their study.

CQU's range of support services cover:

• academic support
• accommodation
• advocacy
• careers advice
• counselling
• equity and diversity
• financial assistance
• student mentors
• e.rolment system support
  

There are also support services specifically designed for distance education students, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and students with disabilities.

Further information on support services specifically designed for international students can be found in the international students section.

Distance education students
The Division of Teaching and Learning Services (DTLS) is responsible for the educational services and support of all distance education programs offered by CQU.

DTLS distributes study packages to distance education students, supports the provision of online courses through the University's learning management system, and provides services and programs to enhance the learning experience for all students.

DTLS organises orientation meetings, acts as a clearing house for assignments, administers audio conferencing and self-directed study groups, prepares and distributes material such as an information guide and newsletters and administers an electronic general discussion forum.

DTLS's Communication and Support Office is the contact point for general enquiries. The office is located at CQU Rockhampton and is open 8.45am - 4.45pm, Monday to Friday except on public holidays. The office can be contacted on phone 07 4930 9442, fax 07 4930 9722 or email dtls-enquiries@cqu.edu.au. Alternatively visit the website at http://www.dtls.cqu.edu.au. For access to a local campus contact the office staff at the campus.

DTLS also has a close liaison with Learning Network Queensland (LNQ). For information on LNQ, refer to the information on Learning Centres below.

The Student Association also provides specialised services for distance education students. Students can freecall 1800 804 228 to access Student Association services such as academic advice and advocacy, a free student diary and other publications and residential school services. For further information on the full range of services offered for distance education students visit http://association.cqu.edu.au.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students
Nulloo Yumbah is CQU's Indigenous Learning, Spirituality and Research Centre. The words Nulloo Yumbah mean 'Our Place' in the language of the Darumbal people, on whose land the University is built.

Nulloo Yumbah is a place that not only fosters pride in identity and encourages cultural awareness across the University but also adds value to the life of the University in the development of ATSI academic vitality. The centre aims to:

• increase ATSI access and entry to the full range of award programs at CQU;
• assist ATSI students to achieve their full potential in their studies and chosen careers;
• represent the interests of ATSI people at CQU;
• encourage research on a wide range of issues relating to ATSI students;
• facilitate a more inclusive and affirming environment for ATSI students at CQU.
  

• consultation with relevant staff at the Equity and Diversity Office on needs assessment and the procedures to meet these needs;
• special examination arrangements (additional time or special equipment);
• a recharge room for students to rest and administer medication;
• access to equipment and resources such as electric scooters, laptop computers, tape recorders, hearing loops, dictaphone, ergonomic chairs, brailling, etc;
• participation assistance can be provided through the use of scribes, notetakers, readers, research assistants and learning support officers.
  

These services may also be available to international students who at present do not fall under the category of a DEST designated target equity group.

For more information please contact the Equity and Diversity Office:

CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9519
CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7087
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7328
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7859

Academic support
Students may find that they are in need of academic assistance during their program of study. Academic support is provided in a number of ways and students are encouraged to make use of the University's services.

Tutors may be accessed by way of student noticeboards, and indigenous students may be eligible for tutoring through the Aboriginal Tutorial Scheme phone 07 4930 9250 for further details.

Workshops are conducted throughout the year on study skills and techniques (by Student Services for Australian students; the CQU Language Centre for international students and the Learning Skills Units on the Australian International Campuses).

Communications Learning Centre (CLC)
CQU's Communications Learning Centre assists Commonwealth supported students who wish to improve their abilities at written and oral communication in English.

Particular attention is paid to the needs of first-year students. Students with problems in writing their assignments and reports are strongly encouraged to seek counsel and support from the Centre.

Services are available to students at CQU Gladstone, Bundaberg, Emerald, Mackay, and Rockhampton. The Centre also caters for distance education students by means of facsimile, telephone and email facilities.

Students may book 30 minutes or one hour per week for individual assistance with written or oral expression. The Communications Learning Centre can be contacted on 07 4930 6305. Alternatively visit the website http://dtls.cqu.edu.au/clc/.

Contact:

CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7067
CQU Emerald 07 4982 2031
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7249
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7471
CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 6305

Mathematics Learning Centre
The Mathematics Learning Centre is an academic support centre, which provides assistance to students who experience difficulty with the mathematical or statistical components of their program. Diagnostic tests in mathematics to determine areas of weakness, counselling in how to learn mathematics and special preparatory sessions in basic mathematics are available.

Services and resources available to students include individual assistance, special course support sessions, computer software and written study materials.

Services are provided to students enrolled at CQU Bundaberg, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay and Rockhampton. Students studying in the distance mode who cannot attend personally are urged to telephone, email or write to avail themselves of the services.

The Centre develops and presents the mathematics component for the Skills for Tertiary Education and Preparatory Studies (STEPS) and Women in Science and Technology (WIST) projects.

The Centre also offers courses in preparatory mathematics on a fee basis and in-service courses in mathematics on a consultative basis.

Centre staff are actively engaged in research associated with improving learning in tertiary mathematics, with special emphasis on the secondary/tertiary interface and technology in mathematics education. For more information about the Mathematics Learning Centre go to the website at http://www.cqu.edu.au/mlc/mlc.html and click on 'student information'.

Contact:

CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7165
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7308
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7451
CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9883/Fax 07 4930 6306

Learning Centres
Learning Centres offer hands-on help for students of all ages, courses and levels, wherever you live in Queensland.

Learning Network Queensland (LNQ) operates approximately 50 Learning Centres throughout the State, providing learners with the personal, technological and physical assistance needed to ensure successful distance education study.

A trained, part-time coordinator manages each centre and can help external students with a range of practical services including informed and objective advice on career planning, choosing your courses and entry or enrolment requirements.

The coordinator will even organise social events and celebrations for local students such as orientation days, graduation ceremonies and student get-togethers as well as study groups and mutual support tutorials.

Most centres offer the following technological facilities to aid your learning: computers, printers, scanners, Internet, email, fax, photocopiers, TV, VCR, audiographic conferencing and videoconferencing equipment as well as quiet areas for private or group study.

Many Learning Centres offer 24-hour access to computers. You can arrange with your local coordinator to use the room at times that fit in with your lifestyle.

To find the location of your nearest Learning Centre call 1800 177 189.

Accommodation
Students looking for accommodation have a number of options. They may opt to flat with friends, board, or rent individual houses. Students in Rockhampton may choose to live on-campus at Capricornia College, and in Mackay, at the Mackay Residential College.

The Australian International Campuses offer a free accommodation referral service to assist international students find suitable accommodation. For more information contact the specific campus.

The International Student Support Officer at CQU Rockhampton assists international students studying at CQU to find accommodation.

Finding student accommodation across the CQU campus network is made easy by the Student Association through its student accommodation referral service.

This service is a comprehensive online accommodation service providing students with the ability to post available accommodation listings and to search online for rental accommodation suitable to their needs and budget. Further information can be obtained online from http://association.cqu.edu.au or phone 07 4930 6758.

Capricornia College (Rockhampton)
Capricornia College is the residential college of Central Queensland University. The College is situated within the CQU Rockhampton grounds on its own landscaped grounds.

Capricornia College provides accommodation for up to 350 male and female students in 12 gender-integrated residential houses. The College operates as an academic residential community of undergraduate and postgraduate members drawn from country and suburban areas throughout Australia as well as many international localities. The College provides a safe, secure, comfortable and supportive environment conducive to the pursuit of academic success, personal development, and community service.

The College is located within a five minute walk of CQU Rockhampton's faculty buildings, library, Commercial Centre, student support services, and the Central Queensland Community Sports Centre.

Admission to the College is available to all CQU students and is by way of an application form which is available from the College or via the College website ( http://www.college.cqu.edu.au/).

The privilege of living in such a vibrant and caring community is dependent upon members embracing certain minimum standards of behaviour and appropriate attitudes that protect the equity, privacy, dignity, and quality of life of others.

Correspondence should be addressed to:

The Principal, Capricornia College
Central Queensland University
Rockhampton Qld 4702
Ph: 07 4930 9766
Fax: 07 4930 6581
Email: capcollege-enquiries@cqu.edu.au
http://www.college.cqu.edu.au/

Advocacy
While not strictly an advocacy agency, the Equity and Diversity Office works closely with academic and other general staff to provide advice to students who may experience difficulties during their course of study. Staff in the Equity and Diversity Office collaborate with teaching staff to ensure inclusive teaching practices. Student enquiries are welcome.

Students may find that they need or would like advice regarding grievances or with understanding University culture and procedures. This service is offered by Student Services, the Equity and Diversity Office and the Student Association.

Contact the Equity and Diversity Office to speak to a relevant officer:

CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9519
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7859
CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7087
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7328

Contact Student Services:

CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9456
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7414
CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7043/07 4150 7119
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7254
Email: helpme@cqu.edu.au

Students wishing to use the Student Association's advocacy or representational services should contact the Student Association's Academic, Advocacy and Support Services Department or the Academic, Advocacy and Support Officers servicing the CQU regional campuses including:

CQU Mackay 07 4940 7413 mackay-advocacy@cqu.edu.au
CQU Rockhampton / Gladstone / Emerald 07 4930 9316 association-advocacy@cqu.edu.au
CQU Bundaberg / Pomona 07 4150 7163 bundaberg-advocacy@cqu.edu.au

Dedicated Academic, Advocacy and Support Officers are also located on CQU International campuses including:

CQU Brisbane International Campus 07 3210 6617 brisbane-advocacy@cqu.edu.au
CQU Gold Coast International Campus 07 5531 3261 goldcoast-advocacy@cqu.edu.au
CQU Sydney International Campus 02 8295 5950 sydney-advocacy@cqu.edu.au
CQU Melbourne International Campus 03 9663 2876 melbourne-advocacy@cqu.edu.au

Distance education students wishing to access the Student Association's Academic, Advocacy and Support Services can utilise the Student Association's freecall number (within Australia) on 1800 804 228 - extension (0).

The Academic, Advocacy and Support Services Officers are responsible for assisting you with CQU procedures, ensuring that you are aware of your rights and responsibilities and delivering assistance in a non-biased manner.

To obtain further information about the Student Association's Academic, Advocacy and Support Services visit the Student Association's website http://association.cqu.edu.au or email association-advocacy@cqu.edu.au.

Student Ombudsman
The Office of the Student Ombudsman for the University is currently part-time, based at CQU Rockhampton (ph 07 4923 2066). The Student Ombudsman investigates students' grievances concerning their academic grades, fees and related academic issues, when these have not been resolved by other means. For further information, visit http://www.cqu.edu.au/ombudsman/.

Careers advice
Student Services has endeavoured to make information on careers and employment available to all students. We are now able to offer a service that incorporates all relevant career information online.

Careerhub is an online jobs board that incorporates a wide range of information that would be beneficial to the student job seeker.

These services include:

• current student and graduate employment opportunities including graduate
• employment programs, professional placements within each discipline, vacation work, work experience, volunteer work, overseas opportunities and internships;
  
• information on dates major employing organisations visit each campus during the year and dates for career related workshops;
• resources that can help you find and apply for positions;
• links to pages that will help you with information such as career prospects, graduate wages, employability of your degree and further study options; and
• contact information of employers that recruit CQU students.
  

Students wishing to register with Careerhub can go to http://careerhub.cqu.edu.au.

Your student e.rolment username and password will enable you to access the services of Careerhub.

Students may also access careers information on the Mackay, Rockhampton, Gladstone and Bundaberg campuses. Information on current jobs, workshops and employer presentations are posted on noticeboards around campuses. Additionally students can access information on the various careers open to graduates, videos on trainee programs or employment, brochures on public and private sector employers.

Staff from the Careers Service at Student Services are also available to discuss and explore career prospects with students, either individually or in a group. Careers counselling staff use a range of career assessment tools to assist students and prospective students with deciding on a choice of career and which program of study would be best in order to reach that career goal.

Workshops are run throughout the year which cover a range of career related subjects such as job search skills, resume writing, covering letters, addressing selection criteria and interview techniques.

Students are also welcome to contact Student Services about any career related question.

Contact:

CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7043
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7254
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7414
CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9456
Email: careers@cqu.edu.au
Website: http://studentservices.cqu.edu.au go to: Jobs and Careers

The Student Association provides a comprehensive online student employment referral service, which is a free service for students seeking casual, part-time or holiday work whilst studying. In some instances the Student Association can also facilitate employment for graduates and professional positions.

Students wishing to register with the student employment referral service or to obtain further information visit http://association.cqu.edu.au or phone 07 4930 6758.

Counselling
CQU's counselling services, and/or referrals are available at each campus. Staff can assist CQU students with problems or concerns that are disrupting their personal development or academic progress. All contact is confidential. Counselling by email is also available at helpme@cqu.edu.au.

Referrals to a wide range of services and agencies can be arranged. As well as individual counselling on personal, health, financial, educational and vocational matters, group programs are offered each term. The dates of these programs are advertised. The service is free and confidential (for more details visit http://studentservices.cqu.edu.au/counselling_intro.html).

Campuses have an international student support officer to assist with personal, family and study issues. The ISSO also assists international students with accommodation, arrival arrangements and orientation.

CQU also provides a chaplaincy service, which aims to give CQU students and staff opportunities in which to pursue their spiritual and personal development. The chaplaincy service offers referral to representatives of various denominations or religions, spiritual guidance and counselling through workshops and groups. Email chaplain@cqu.edu.au.

Contact CQU Student Services Counselling Centre:

CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7043/4150 7119
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7254
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7414
CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9456 / email helpme@cqu.edu.au
Rockhampton International Student Support Officer 07 4930 9048
CQU Brisbane International Campus 07 3295 1188
CQU Gold Coast International Campus 07 5552 4988
CQU Melbourne International Campus 03 8662 0555
CQU Sydney International Campus 02 8295 5854

Equity and diversity
Central Queensland University continues to demonstrate its commitment to both student and staff equity through the collaborative and cooperative activities and programs undertaken by the Equity and Diversity Office.

The Equity and Diversity Office emphasises the appreciation of difference and the creation of a safe and just environment for study and employment. This is done by:

• ensuring CQU's policies, procedures and practices reflect the University's commitment to access and equal opportunity for all students and staff;
• providing timely and professional information on legislation relevant to anti-discrimination;
• providing advice and information to assist students who may experience difficulties during their course of study;
• assisting students and staff to expedite the resolution of grievances in an effective and confidential manner;
• collaborating with teaching staff to ensure inclusive teaching practices.
  

While the services of the Equity and Diversity Office can be accessed by all students, the office is committed to increasing the participation, retention and success rates of students from the DEST designated equity groups:

• people of low social economic status;
• people from rural and isolated areas;
• people from non-English speaking backgrounds;
• women in non-traditional areas of study (eg. engineering, IT and science);
• people with disabilities, impairment or medical conditions;
• people of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Islander descent.
  

For information on University policies governing sexual harassment, discrimination and workplace bullying, please contact the Equity and Diversity Office.

Inclusive language
A publication setting out guidelines for the use of inclusive language is available from the CQU Policy Portal, http://www.cqu.edu.au/policy/ (Academic Policies and Procedures, Use of Inclusive Language Guidelines). The intent of this guide is to ensure that students and staff avoid the use of discriminatory language. The use of inclusive language will help students and staff to achieve quality educational outcomes. For more information please contact the Equity and Diversity Office.

Contact:

CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9519
CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7087
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7328
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7859
Email equity-enquiries@cqu.edu.au

Financial assistance
Financial assistance is available to domestic Australian students in a variety of ways. Loans are available through the Special Assistance for Students Scheme for those students whose study may be affected because of financial difficulties.

Eligibility criteria apply to the loan and an application form with supporting documentation must be completed. Loan applications can be made at Rockhampton, Gladstone, Bundaberg and Mackay.

Contact CQU's Student Services:

CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7043/4150 7119
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7254
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7414
CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9456
Email helpme@cqu.edu.au
Website http://studentservices.cqu.edu.au/cqu_student_loans.html

The Student Association also offers emergency interest-free loans of up to $100. For further information, contact the Student Association's Academic, Advocacy and Support Services Officer nearest you.

Contact:

CQU Mackay 07 4940 7413
CQU Rockhampton/Gladstone/Emerald 07 4930 9316
CQU Bundaberg/Pomona 07 4150 7163
CQU Brisbane International Campus 07 3210 6617
CQU Gold Coast International Campus 07 5531 3261
CQU Sydney International Campus 02 8295 5950
CQU Melbourne International Campus 03 9663 2876

Student mentors and leadership program
Central Queensland University provides a peer support program for all first-year undergraduate students to assist the transition into university life. All internal students (full-time/part-time) studying at the Sunshine Coast Delivery Site, Bundaberg, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Noosa and Rockhampton campuses are linked with experienced student mentors during the first day of the University's orientation program. New students studying externally need to complete an application form and submit by the end of Week One of the term.

Mentors are more experienced students who can help first-year students to access information and services within the University.

Student mentors can help smooth the transition process to university life by providing basic but essential advice regarding studying at Central Queensland University. They can assist students with such things as:

• how to understand lecture timetables and the examination process;
• how to access the library, computers, and other services provided by CQU;
• finding their way around university; and
• how to obtain relevant information about all aspects of university life.
  

The help received from a mentor can make a significant difference to a student's first year at university.

Involvement in the CQU Student Mentor and Leadership Program is voluntary but the University encourages students to make the most of this student support program during their first year at University. The Student Mentor Program operates from CQU Student Services and the Division of Teaching and Learning Services.

If internal students are unable to attend the University's orientation program but wish to be linked to a student mentor, please contact:

CQU Rockhampton 07 4930 9542/4930 9456
CQU Bundaberg 07 4150 7043/4150 7119
CQU Gladstone 07 4970 7254
CQU Mackay 07 4940 7414
Email helpme@cqu.edu.au
Website http://studentservices.cqu.edu.au/mentoring_intro.html

External students please contact the Division of Teaching and Learning Services on 07 4930 9422 or email dtls-enquiries@cqu.edu.au.

e.rolment system support
Th Student Service Line (SSL) assists students to obtain the necessary support to complete the e.rolment process online. The SSL is the first point of contact for all students who do not have access to the internet and/or are experiencing problems or difficulties in the course of conducting their online enrolment transactions. The SSL operators are on hand to assist students in stepping through the e.rolment process. Telephone 1300 550 900 (free call within Australia) or email prerolment@cqu.edu.au.