Planning your university studies as an adult learner
Choosing a programme, working out your hours, sorting your finances – there's plenty to figure out. Here's everything you need to get started.
What can I study at AUT as an adult learner?
AUT offers more than 250 programmes across every level of study. Whether this is your first time at university or you're coming back after a break, you can choose a programme that fits your goals and your life. Most programmes are available part-time, and many have multiple class times so you can build a schedule that works.
These durations below are guides, not guarantees – your pace is your own, and you may be able to adjust each semester based on what's happening in your life. The most common thing adult learners say after they finish? They wish they'd started sooner.
Bachelor’s degree
The most common starting point for someone coming to university for the first time. Usually 3 years of full-time study – around 5 to 6 years part-time. Part-time options often available.
Diplomas or certificates
A shorter pathway into a specific area of study or into further university qualifications. 6 months to 1 year full-time – around 1 to 2 years part-time. Part-time options often available.
Postgraduate study
For those who already have a bachelor's degree and want to specialise or go deeper in their field. From 6 months full-time – around 1 to 4 years part-time depending on qualification. Part-time options often available.
Graduate certificates and diplomas
A good option if you already have a bachelor's degree and want to move into a new field or prepare for postgraduate study. 6 months to 1 year full-time – around 1 to 2 years part-time. Part-time options often available.
Single course
Try a subject before committing to a full programme. One course, a few hours of study each week, over a 5 to 6-month semester.
Can I study completely online?
Yes. AUT Online offers fully online programmes with flexible learning options – you study part-time, one course at a time, without needing to come to campus. You still get full access to AUT student support services and graduate with a globally recognised qualification.
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Can I get credit for my work experience or past study?
Yes, this is called recognition of prior learning (RPL). If you have relevant work experience or have completed previous study, you may be able to get credits towards your qualification. This can reduce the time and cost of your degree – sometimes significantly. It's worth checking your eligibility for RPL before you enrol, particularly if you've worked in the same field you're planning to study.
How much time will I need for study each week?
As an adult learner you'll often move through content faster than you expect – your work experience means theory connects to something real, which helps it stick. How much time you need depends on your programme and how many courses you take. A full-time student typically studies 40 hours a week. Taking 1 course at a time brings that down to around 10 hours a week.
What financial support is available for adult learners?
There's more financial support available than most people realise. As a domestic student studying at AUT you may be eligible for:
- A student loan through StudyLink – to cover fees and course-related costs
- A student allowance through StudyLink – to help with living costs, subject to eligibility
- Additional support through Work and Income (WINZ) – including help with childcare costs
- Scholarships – including scholarships specifically for people retraining, eg into teaching
- AUT emergency financial assistance – for students who hit financial difficulty while studying, available through the Student Hub
Fees vary by programme and study load. As a part-time student you pay for the courses you take rather than a flat annual fee.
Useful websites:
Talk to us about your study options
Not quite sure where to start? That's what we're here for. You can:
- Book a time with us to discuss your study options
- Call us on 0800 288 288
- Chat to us using the online chat on this page
Studying at university as an adult: your questions answered
Coming to university as an adult learner raises a lot of questions. Most of them are more practical than people expect – not "can I do this?" but "how do I actually make it work?". Get answers to the questions adult learners ask us most.
Apply to study at AUT!
Ready to apply? You can start your application today – it’s easy!
University language explained
Bachelor’s degrees, courses… Feeling confused? Check out our glossary if you need help with any of the AUT language you’ve seen on this page.