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Studying in 2021

Dual delivery and the on-campus experience

More students have returned to our Australian campuses.

Safely returning our students to a vibrant campus has been our priority. We’ve worked hard to prepare a 2021 timetable that provides dual delivery (a mix of face-to-face and online learning), allowing us to maximise the number of on-campus classes, while still prioritising the safety of our students and staff.

This includes returning many of the practical components of our courses to face-to-face learning, in our state of the art facilities, or out in the field.

We encourage students to choose on-campus classes where they are offered. However, for classes that cannot be held on campus due to physical distancing requirements, or for students unable to come on campus due to COVID-19 related circumstances, online delivery will continue to be offered, wherever possible.

On this webpage, you’ll find what you need to know about learning in 2021, coming on campus and accessing services and facilities.

Physical distancing and other measures will continue to operate on campus – please be sure to follow these so we can all continue to stay safe.

We look forward to seeing our students on campus in 2021.

Engaging on campus

Studying in 2021

Accessing our libraries & campus facilities

Physical distancing & hygiene

Face masks

UOW accommodation

Transport & parking

Getting active & social

Service points & support

Frequently asked questions

Studying in 2021

For the first half of 2021, students will see dual delivery (a mix of face-to-face and online learning), allowing us to maximise the number of on-campus classes while still prioritising the safety of our students and staff.

  • All on-campus classes have been timetabled to comply with the Government’s physical distancing requirements and UOW’s COVID Safe Plan.
  • Students unable to attend on-campus components due to COVID-19 related circumstances may have the opportunity to carry out these components online (where that is an option), or complete them at a later stage.
  • Many of the practical components of our courses have also returned to face-to-face learning in our facilities or out in the field, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the theory and develop your practical skills. Further details on individual subject delivery are available in the timetable.

Research activities

Research students should be adequately supervised on-site by a staff member with appropriate expertise, and to ensure that both physical distancing and appropriate health and safety measures are undertaken. Further information pertaining to research activities are outlined in the COVID-19 Safe Work Plan – Research Activity and the COVID-19 Safe Work Plan – Office Areas.

All researchers are also required to follow the Restoring Research Operations Principles and Guidelines (Stage 1) when using the UOW COVID-19 Safe Work Plans.

Exams

Examination formats for Autumn are being considered. Information about this will be provided to students in the coming weeks.

Understanding your 2021 subject timetable

The 2021 Autumn, Trimester 1, Trimester 2 and associated timetables are available to view on our Timetabling page. These timetables outline subject availability and how classes will be delivered.

We also have frequently asked questions about subject timetables, which you can read here.

On-campus class requirements

For each on-campus class, students will be required to:

  • Check-in via QR code.
  • Use the provided disinfectant wipes to clean their desk and any shared equipment before and after class. Staff in some teaching spaces such as laboratories will also be disinfecting benches between classes.
  • Adhere to occupancy limits for classrooms.

Teaching and safety on campus

This video gives you a detailed look at the teaching and safety practices we have implemented on campus.

At UOW we’re excited to welcome more students back to our Australian campuses in 2021.   

Whether you are a returning student, or about to start studying with us for the first time, we want to assure you that your safety on campus is our priority.   

So what will 2021 look like? UOW will offer dual delivery of subjects - some classes will be face-to-face, some will be remote, and some will offer both on-campus and remote options. This allows us to maximise the number of face-to-face classes, while still ensuring we comply with Government physical distancing requirements.  

As part of UOW’s COVID Safe Plan, we’ve implemented a range of safety measures and hygiene practices across campus, including physical distancing, occupancy limits and enhanced cleaning. 

Regular handwashing is encouraged, and hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes stations have been installed.  

We’ve also introduced QR codes at entry points to classrooms and other key areas to help manage occupancy limits and assist with contact tracing, should it be required. 

So what can you do to help us all stay safe and healthy? We ask that anyone coming on campus take sensible precautions, like staying home if you’re unwell, and getting tested if you develop COVID-19 symptoms.  

If for any reason you are unable to maintain a 1.5 metre distance from others, we encourage you to wear a face mask. The University will supply you with masks where required, but it’s handy to bring your own reusable mask and helps reduce waste.   

We know students have missed the vibrant campus environment that UOW is known for and, we’ve missed it too.   

We look forward to seeing you on campus in 2021.   

 

Accessing our libraries & campus facilities

UOW Library

For more information on accessing library services, visit the Library website.

Study spaces

  • Building 17, Level 1 (50 capacity): 8 am - 10 pm
  • Building 11 (100 capacity): 8 am - 6 pm
  • Building 9 (100 capacity): 8 am to 6 pm (Building 9 will open only after buildings 16, 17 and 11 reach capacity)

Retail & food outlets, cafés & food courts

  • Early Start Discovery Space, Kids' Uni childcare, UniShop, Post Office, Mac1 and IMB Bank are open.
  • All cafes are open including UniBar, Ugly Duckling, Greenpatch cafe, Gypsy Jones, Hemmingway, Delish, Piccolo Me, Panizzi and Rush. For operating hours, visit the Pulse website.
  • Building 11 food court is open and seating available (physical distancing in place).
  • A range of cafes and restaurants offering seating as per government requirements.

UOW Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available across campus so students who do not wish to use an indoor space are encouraged to sit outdoors. Wi-Fi can also be accessed in the carparks, if students would prefer to sit in their cars and work.

Health & medical services

The following heath and medical services are open. Refer to the relevant website for further information.

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

All facilities at the UOW Innovation Campus are now open, including the UniActive gym, the Piccolo Me café and The Jade Teapot and Science Space.

In addition, the common spaces and the prayer room are now accessible to the Campus community.

The Innovation Campus Management office remains open and available to respond to your questions and queries, please reach via email or phone out if you require any assistance.

Innovation Campus Management
Email: ic-admin@uow.edu.au 
Phone: +61 2 4221 5115

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

  • Open 10am - 4pm Monday - Friday without a swipe card. (access card required after-hours)
  • For campus Library information, visit the Batemans Bay and Bega websites. 
  • At UOW Bega, swipe card required to access 340.G04 computer lab and common spaces. Contact campus admin if you do not have an access card.
  • Students with laptops can access the UOW wi-fi from the car park.
  • Strict physical distancing rules apply on campus.

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

  • Swipe card required after-hours. Contact campus admin if you do not have an access card.
  • 24/7 computer access available in Building 301 (LG.02), as well as access to common spaces in CG 02 and CG 01.
  • For campus library information, visit the Shoalhaven campus website.
  • For best UOW wi-fi connection, park near Mind the Gap Building.
  • Strict physical distancing rules apply on campus.

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

  • Swipe card access only, including 360.G02 computer lab. Contact campus admin if you do not have an access card.
  • For campus library information, visit the Southern Highlands campus website.
  • Strict physical distancing rules apply on campus.

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

  • Open 9 am - 5 pm Monday - Friday
  • The entire campus is now open to students during these hours.
  • For campus library information, visit the Southern Sydney campus website.
  • Strict physical distancing rules apply on campus.

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

  • Open 8 am - 7 pm Monday to Friday
  • All computer labs (G.19, G.30, 2.29, 3.26) and informal study spaces on campus open and available for students to use, although security will be required to gain access to levels 2 and 3.
  • For campus library information, visit the South Western Sydney campus website.
  • Strict physical distancing rules apply on campus.

QR codes for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

Business and Law Central Sydney is open from 9.00am- 9.00pm Monday to Friday.

Sydney CBD Campus is open from 9.00am to 9.00pm Monday to Friday including phone enquiries, Student Resources Room and the Library, 9.00am-5.00pm on Saturday* and 12.00pm-5.00pm on Sunday**.

*BAL Central Sydney (level 8) and phones are closed on the weekends
**Campus open on Sundays until Sunday, 18 April, 2021

Note:

  • Due to security measures being implemented by Gateway Building Management from 27 April, 2020 the Sydney CBD campus is only available for use by students enrolled at this campus and staff who are assigned to work or teach from this location.
  • Sydney CBD Campus students must sign in at the check-in portal at the concierge desk and provide their full name, UOW email address and a contact number for verification. Access to the campus will be provided once details have been verified.

QR code for contact tracing

UOW has implemented QR codes across campus to assist with contact tracing.

Accessing services and facilities

Have questions? Want to study in the library? Or maybe you just want a coffee? Check out this video for information on accessing our range of student services and facilities, both on and off campus.

If you have any questions about your studies, our friendly Student Service team are available via phone or email. If you’re on campus, Student Central is open in building 17 for face-to-face enquiries, with additional safety measures in place. Our full range of academic and personal support services are also available to both students on campus and those studying from home. 

Our Wollongong Campus Library is open but has limited capacity. You can see if the Library is full ahead of time by checking the live occupancy counter which is available on the Library website. Library resources are also available online, and expert staff can assist you through online support services, including Live Chat.  

Our cafes, food and retail outlets are open and ready to welcome you back. Our UniActive gyms and swimming pool are also operating, with additional safety and cleaning measures in place. 

We know students have missed the vibrant campus environment that UOW is known for and, we’ve missed it too.   

We look forward to seeing you on campus in 2021.   

Physical distancing & hygiene

  • Physical distancing between people wherever and whenever possible
  • Occupancy limits apply across campus where required at entry
  • Signage, stickers and posters are displayed around campus to remind visitors of physical distancing and hygiene practices
  • Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of all high touch point areas
  • Hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes stations have been installed around campus. Please dispose of used disinfectant wipes in the general waste bins (landfill).

Face masks

NSW Health strongly recommends that you carry a clean face mask with you and wear it if you are unable to maintain 1.5 metres of physical distance from others. For the latest information on requirements in NSW, visit the NSW Health website.

UOW also strongly recommends students wear a mask while in on-campus teaching rooms, and in situations where they cannot maintain physical distancing from others whilst on campus.

Wearing face masks can hinder teaching staff in the performance of their duties. Accordingly, teaching staff who are able to maintain physical distancing from students whilst in on-campus classes may choose whether to wear a mask, based on what is most appropriate for each class.

Staff and students are encouraged to bring their own reusable masks to reduce waste, however, this may not be appropriate in laboratory settings due to the risk of contamination. Teaching staff in local areas will be able to provide students with advice on what is suitable for their class.

If you use a disposable mask please ensure that you dispose of it appropriately in the general waste bins (landfill).  Breaking the ear elastics before disposal will also help to protect our wildlife.

Wearing a mask is not a substitute for physical distancing. Masks are a "fourth line of defence" after staying home if unwell and getting tested, maintaining social distancing and good hand hygiene.

Please refer to the NSW Government website on how to wear a mask correctly.

UOW Accommodation

Our residences continue to provide students with a vibrant and supportive community while they study at UOW.  

Each residence offers easy access to a range of facilities and social events, academic and wellbeing programs. Our focus is on ensuring students feel supported and connected.

Our team is being extra vigilant about ensuring physical distancing protocols and cleaning are in place and being followed. That includes additional cleaning in communal areas, staggered dining times at catered sites and clear signage and guidelines in meeting rooms and communal areas indicating maximum numbers of occupants.

Applications are now open for new and returning students.

COVID-19 Accommodation FAQs

Transport & parking

Getting active & social

  • UniActive offers top-class fitness and sporting facilities on campus including two fully equipped gyms, a 50m heated Olympic pool, group exercise classes and much more. Government guidelines, and capacity limits apply at UniActive gyms.
  • Pulse Student Engagement programs are delivered on campus and online, offering a range of workshops, events, resources and giveaways.
  • Join one of over 150 UniClubs and get involved and connect with other students.

Service points & support

  • We have a wide range of academic and personal support services that continue to operate and are available online or over the phone.
  • Some on-campus service points (e.g. Student Central) open with strict occupancy limits and physical distancing requirements. Face masks are encouraged when visiting on-campus service points.

Frequently asked questions

Dual delivery means that classes are delivered on-campus and/or online. In 2021, whilst we have been able to return a large number of subjects to on-campus delivery, we won't be able to return to full capacity until the Government’s physical distancing requirements are removed.

Dual delivery means that in 2021 some classes are being delivered online, others are being delivered on-campus, and some offer both on-campus and online delivery options, allowing students to choose which delivery method they prefer to enrol into. Your subject timetable and tutorial enrolment process provides information on the available delivery method for each class.

For classes that cannot be held on campus due to physical distancing requirements, or for students unable to come on campus due to COVID-19 related circumstances, online delivery will continue to be offered, wherever possible.

The 2021 Autumn, Trimester 1, Trimester 2 and associated timetables are available to view on the Timetabling website. These timetables outline which subjects are running in that session, the class structure of each subject, and how subjects will be delivered (e.g. on-campus or online).

We also have frequently asked questions about subject timetables, which you can read here.

Class attendance requirements are specific to each subject and are outlined within the subject outline. Subject outlines are normally available 1-2 weeks before session starts. We have adjusted timetables and campus environments to allow students to safely study in person at our Australian campuses. For those unable to attend classes on campus, and for lectures over the COVID safe capacity, online delivery will continue to be offered, wherever possible.

We understand that some students may not be able to attend on-campus classes due to travel restrictions or legitimate personal circumstances. If you enrol in a subject in 2021 that has on-campus components, but you are no longer within travelling distance of your campus, you may have the opportunity to: 

  • Carry out these components online (where that is an option), or
  • Complete them at a later stage

The 2021 Autumn, Trimester 1, Trimester 2 and associated timetables are available on our Timetabling website, and outline how each subject will be delivered, so you can plan your enrolment ahead of time.

Yes. Based on current restrictions, all visitors to UOW Australian campuses, or within UOW residences, must practice physical distancing wherever and whenever possible. Occupancy limits and other measures will also be in place across campus, including classrooms, study spaces, libraries, outdoor spaces and other areas. UOW will continue to monitor government restrictions and health guidelines and will adapt as and when they change.

Anyone who attends campus and is displaying COVID-19 symptoms will be asked to leave and get tested. If you need help arranging transport to a medical centre or COVID-19 testing clinic, you can contact UOW Security.

COVID safe capacity means that the layout of UOW’s teaching spaces allows for physical distancing between students in accordance with Government guidelines. The COVID safe capacity (or maximum capacity) of each room on campus has been determined on this basis.

Information about grades and academic support measures in 2021 will be communicated directed to students at the beginning of session.

Our SSAF funded projects, essential services and programs play a critical role in supporting our students and enriching their university experience. Most of these essential services continue to be available for students whether studying online or on campus. To ensure these essential services continue to be available for students in 2021, the SSAF Fee for Trimester 1 and Autumn Session 2021 will be charged as per normal. To learn more about how SSAF relates to you, visit the SSAF website. 

Yes. All Australian campuses are open and accessible to both students studying online or attending on-campus classes. Our campus libraries, study spaces, service counters, outdoor areas and other facilities are open and operating with appropriate social distancing arrangements and other safety measures in place. Students can also continue to access our full range of academic and personal support services online, over the phone or in-person.

As part of cost-saving measures due to COVID-19, the University will close all campuses from 4 – 8 January, 19 – 23 April and 12 – 16 July 2021. While these dates fall in student breaks, it does mean that a number of on-campus services and facilities will be unavailable to students during these times. These include: 

  • Campus libraries (closed 4 – 10 January, open during April and July closure periods with reduced staff. Access to online library services and resources will still be available) 
  • Student Central (face-to-face and phone service unavailable during some closure periods. Students can still enquire via email to askuow@uow.edu.au) 
  • Faculty Centrals and other on-campus service centres 
  • Student IT Support (TBA) 
  • Retail and food outlets 

If you have a question about this, please contact Student Service on +61 4221 3927 or email askuow@uow.edu.au 

If you wish to withdraw from a subject you’ve enrolled in for a particular session, there are some important things to consider. Successful withdrawal from subjects depends largely on at what point in the session you withdraw. You can learn more about withdrawing from subjects here.

The 2021 Autumn, Trimester 1, Trimester 2 and associated timetables are available to view on our Timetabling website and outline how each subject will be delivered so you can plan your enrolment.

Campus facilities & services

Yes. Our team in Student Central is available over the phone, by email and in-person on campus.

In-person visits are limited to five (5) people at any one time due to physical distancing requirements, which may impact wait times.

You can find our contact details on the Student Central website.

UOW Libraries are open, with appropriate physical distancing protocols and occupancy limits in place.

For details of opening hours, occupancy limits and accessing services for the Wollongong Campus Library, visit the Library website.

Shoalhaven and Sydney CBD campus libraries are open. If you are studying at one of our regional or metropolitan campus locations, check the library websites for the most up-to-date information. The libraries remain fully open online with an extensive range of resources and services including live chat during opening hours.

Yes you can. UOW has been working to ensure that all campuses are open and operational, as well as safe and healthy for students who need to access facilities. See more on accessing campus facilities.

UOW's Regional and Metro campuses remain open and operational to all students, with physical distancing measures in place.

Maximum capacity in rooms has been calculated for campuses, with signs on the doors at some campuses and others blocking off work stations to keep within physical distancing.

See more on accessing facilities on your campus

In keeping with the government’s directive to close community facilities and gathering points—and its recognition of the vulnerability of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community—the University has temporarily closed the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre.

Indigenous students will be supported to study online and ongoing support and engagement will be provided by our Woolyungah Indigenous Centre staff.

Please contact Woolyungah directly for advice and support.

Majority of on-campus retail and food outlets, cafés and food courts are open and operating as per government regulations.

See a detailed list of available facilities at UOW campuses

Paid parking resumed on 6 April 2021.

Parking is limited and fills quickly. Consider using an alternative mode of transport - free buses or other public transport, walking or cycling.

parking on Wollongong campus