You should follow the relevant program requirements from the year in which you commenced your program. For example, if you commence in 2024, the requirements given for the academic year 2024 are the requirements you need to follow.
It’s important to adhere to your program’s requirements to be eligible for graduation. We acknowledge that some students may find themselves unable to meet the standard program requirements for a variety of reasons. If this applies to you, please submit a program variation request.
Important note: Program variations are only supported in exceptional circumstances and where students can demonstrate that the variation will not impact the overall learning outcomes and professional competencies for the program. It is not a mechanism to avoid “difficult” courses or required courses you don’t find interesting.
How to apply
- Please complete the form: Program Variation Requests.
- Your request will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- You will be advised of the outcome within 20 working days of providing complete information. The outcome will be sent to your ANU email address.
- If you need to amend the request, please submit a new form and advise the amendment in the new form.
- If you need to cancel the request or need further assistance, please email CECC Student Services.
Typical types of program variation requests
-
Following different requirements set for a year other than your commencement year
Example: you commenced your program in 2023 but wish to follow 2024 requirements.
You will need to provide compelling reasons. Simply stating that the requirements for a different year are easier will not be accepted.
-
Completing a different compulsory major or specialisation than required.
Example: the Human-Centred and Creative Computing (HCCC-SPEC) specialisation became available in 2023. If you commenced your program before 2023, you will need to submit a variation request to have HCCC-SPEC count as your compulsory specialisation for your program.
You will need to demonstrate the variation will not impact the overall learning outcomes and professional competencies for the program.
-
Exceeding the 1000-level course limit
Example: you have completed 66 units of 1000-level courses while your program only allows up to 60 units.
You will need to provide compelling reasons. Lack of awareness or knowledge of program requirements or poor study planning will not be accepted.
-
Completing fewer 8000-level or Advanced 6000-level courses than required.
Example: you have completed 30 units of 8000-level or Advanced 6000-level courses while your program requires at least 36 units.
You will need to provide compelling reasons. Lack of awareness or knowledge of program requirements or poor study planning will not be accepted.
-
Course substitutions
Example 1: in 2024, Human-Centred and Creative Computing (HCCC-SPEC) specialisation course COMP8350 is not offered and students are required to self-nominate a suitable replacement course and seek approval.
You will need to demonstrate the nominated course satisfying the learning outcomes of the program, and if applicable, the specific subplan.
Example 2: you have found a course that aligns with your career goals and interests. It should be at the same level as the course you are replacing.
You will need to explain your personal circumstances.
Ineligible circumstances
- You wish to avoid “difficult” courses or required courses you don’t find interesting.
- Lack of awareness or knowledge of your program requirements.
- You could have reasonably avoided the circumstances through proper planning.