Micro Units

Are micro units right for me?

If you’re already established in your career but want to keep up with emerging technology and trends, micro units are for you. You might be a mid-level executive, an aspiring leader or a manager.

How is a micro unit different from other types of study?

A micro unit lets you upskill on a topic without the cost or commitment of a traditional degree. Micro units are self-paced, so you can fit them in around work and personal commitments. Within each 6 week micro unit, you can choose to study when it’s most convenient for you.

When can I begin a micro unit?

Each micro unit runs over a 6 week period and has set start and completion dates. Once you’re enrolled in a micro unit, you will have complete flexibility around when you choose to study.

Do I need any previous knowledge of the topic?

No, there are no prerequisites and you don’t need any prior knowledge of the topic. All you need to get started is an internet connection and a curious mind.

Do I have to come to campus?

No, your micro unit is delivered fully online. Log in at times that suit you to access your learning materials, engage with fellow students and your Online Learning Coach.

Will what I learn in a micro unit be relevant to my job?

Yes, your course material utilises many case studies of real business situations, meaning you’ll be able to take what you learn and apply it immediately in your job. Your employer may even agree to cover the cost of your micro unit, as part of your professional development activities.

Will I get a certificate?

Yes, if you complete the course material, you’ll get a Certificate of Participation from Swinburne University of Technology. If you choose to do the assessment/s, you’ll get a Certificate of Completion.

Will micro units give me university credits?

If you complete three micro units, you’ll be eligible for 12.5 credit points. This is the equivalent of one Swinburne postgraduate unit.

Some Swinburne faculties may accept completed micro units as an alternative basis of admission to a course. Applications using micro units must be lodged within seven years of their completion.

How long does a micro unit take?

Each micro unit runs for 4-6 weeks depending on the topic. It’s up to you how much time you spend studying, but we recommend you allocate 4-6 hours each week.

How do I enrol?

Visit the micro units page, select your chosen micro unit and then look out for the red Enrol button.

How do I pay?

After you start the enrolment process, you’ll have the option to pay via credit card or PayPal.

If I’ve enrolled but can’t participate in the micro unit, can I get a refund?

You can request a refund by applying in writing to microunits@swinburneonline.com at least 3 days before the micro unit starts. You may be eligible for a later refund if you’re experiencing severe medical or personal issues. Please see the refund rules below for more information.

What support is available?

Your course will be facilitated by an industry expert who will act as your Online Learning Coach. You’ll be able to contact them via your micro unit online learning environment as well as via email. You can also contact them directly during scheduled webinars.

Peer-to-peer support is an important element of micro units. We encourage you to contribute to online discussions and leverage the expertise of your fellow learners.

Technical support is available from your micro unit online learning environment by selecting the Help button and then selecting Canvas Support.

For general support before and during the micro unit, you can contact your Student Advisors at microunits@swinburneonline.com.

Micro Unit refund rules

• Application to withdraw from a micro unit with a refund must be made in writing by emailing microunits@swinburneonline.com.
• Students can withdraw from a micro unit with a refund for the amount paid by applying to do so before 9am Melbourne time three working days prior to the start of the course.
• If students are unable to complete the unit in exceptional circumstances (including severe ill-health or on compassionate grounds) they can apply to withdraw with a refund with relevant documentation. The application must be made prior to having received either a certificate of participation or a certificate of completion. A final decision on the matter will be made by the Program Director for micro units at Swinburne Online.
• Any additional fees incurred by the student during the process of completing the payment (e.g. credit card surcharge, bank fee, merchant fee, etc.) will not be refunded.
• If Swinburne Online is not able to offer an advertised course after a student has enrolled in it and paid for it, the student will have the choice of transferring to an acceptable equivalent course or receiving a refund.

Privacy statement

By applying to study a micro unit:

• You declare to the best of your knowledge that the application information provided is true, correct and complete
• You agree that your personal information will be collected and use for the purposes set out in accordance with the Swinburne University of technology Privacy Collection Statement.
• The University will correspond with you via electronic means