After nearly ten years, the University has come to understand that it has 'spread itself too thin' by taking on responsibility for VET programs and that it should focus its work in agriculture and related education in higher education programs, research and research training which are the University's core strengths.

This is not to criticise the efforts of the staff involved in VET; they have done a wonderful job in what at times has been a very difficult environment for them within the University. Many of the programs developed and offered have involved working closely with industry and are very highly regarded indeed eg the dairy program at McMillan.

The University's in-principle decision was based principally on educational grounds but financial matters were a consideration. The University Council strategy will focus the Faculty's work in agriculture and related education in the University's core areas of strength in higher education, research and research training.

If you are already a University of Melbourne student, you must successfully complete your course by 31 December 2007 in order to be awarded a University of Melbourne qualification. After that date you will be able to transfer to another provider which offers the same course, apply for credit for completed units, and complete your studies.

During this transition period (2006-2007), the University may contract another provider to teach out the current courses. The University would "quality assure" this process and students would still take out the University award.

If you wish to graduate with a University of Melbourne qualification then you need to complete your study by 31 December 2007. During that time, you will continue to be enrolled at the University.

If at any time you transfer to the same course delivered by an alternate provider, you would, on completion of the course, graduate from that alternate Institute/ Registered Training Organisation.

The same deadline applies to part-time students.

If you do not complete your course by 31 December 2007, you will not be able to obtain a University of Melbourne qualification. You will be able to transfer to another provider which offers the same course, apply for credit for completed units, and complete your studies..

If you do not complete your course by 31 December 2007, you will be able to transfer to another provider which offers the same course, apply for credit for completed units, and complete your studies.

Any qualification obtained on successful completion of a course will be awarded by the new provider and not by the University.

You will not be able to commence the higher-level course at the University and should arrange to transfer to another RTO provider who offers the same course to complete your studies. Any qualification obtained on successful completion of a course will be awarded by the new provider and not by the University of Melbourne.