I chose Macquarie University due to its location close to my home and due to its high ranking for its Faculty of Business and Economics, as well as it's good social life and sports including soccer and ultimate frisbee.
Course Curriculum
My Double Degree is well run and taught by various experts with training specific to accounting and financial industries, and so the course is run well. Additionally, the ability to go on exchange and apply for internship positions adds to the validity of the course.
Exams
I undertook the Higher School Certificate (HSC) to get into University and, as yet, have not undertaken any examinations at the University level.
Placement
Job Placement is structured to not directly interfere with uni life and exams, and so are ideal for study. Over job opportunities also exist within the University, whilst these placements greatly boost the employment rate of the uni.
Internship
Yes, Macquarie does provide internships, especially for business-related degrees. This may be through Co-Op or various job websites, allowing students to gain invaluable work experience that is critical when finding a job. I have not yet had this experience.
Events
Macquarie celebrates various events, ranging from public holidays to various ethnic traditions and political celebrations. These events are coordinated by different societies and give Macquarie a multicultural feel.
Fees
Main fees for a domestic student range from $1000 to $1400 per unit (with 8 completed per year). Additionally, there is a $300 fee per year for student services and additional costs for computers, textbooks, etc.
Scholarship
Yes, Australia provides a HECS-HELP fund, which pays for university fees in the present to be paid off when you earn a high threshold of income per year, with little or no interest.
Examination Structure
There are two exams period per year, situated after 13 weeks of learning. Although this is not necessarily bad, there is only a mid-term break, meaning exams start directly after teaching finishes for the semester.
Faculty
The Faculty of Business and Economics is excellent at Macquarie due to its experience and a large range of courses. Ranked Highly for various subjects such as accounting and finance, the faculty of business is superior at Macquarie.
Hostel
My residence was is my house, which is a 15-minute drive or 30-minute bus from Macquarie Uni. This is incredibly easy, as it allows me to save on rent costs and other expenses, allowing me to save my disposable income.