What does 'flexible program' mean?

I am thinking of doing an Advanced diploma in Mental Health.. The course info states

"This course runs for 12 months on a flexible basis, delivered completely online in an innovative and interactive web-based learning environment. You can study when and where you want. Facilitators are available via email, online forums, online chatroom, phone or appointment to support students throughout the duration of the program."

I am wondering does this mean it has to be finished within 12 months? Eg; If I started in September this year I would have to have completed it by September next year? Or does the flexible basis mean I can take longer? I just don't think I can commit to studying when I will be a new Mummy by the end of the year, but at the same time I don't want to leave it til mid year next year either?? What happens if i start it, but don't finish it?

ETA: i think I just found the answer "This is a self-paced, flexible program delivered over 12 months. Each unit will have an identified start and end date." I don't think I can commit to it, which is a shame because I kind of wanted to take advantage of this time I have not working..

I would say you would do it in 12 months, but could do 80% of the course before the baby arrives (or something like that). You can do as much as possible early on and cruise through the later part studying when you wanted. What are the assessments like? Big essays are probably a no-go, but just putting hours in/reflective writing/multi-choice questions then that may be OK with a baby.

I would take that to mean you have 12 months to complete the course but you can do whatever hours suit you to do that. Rather than having to be doing say 15hours a week, you do what you need on whatever day/time suits you.
I'd say if you didn't finish it you'd just fail. Unless you could give them good reasons to extend.

is there someone you can call or email with your questions?

Yeah, I just had a look, there are 2 compulsory subjects and 5 elective. I have already completed 1 of the elective subjects so that means I only have 6 subjects. I have no idea what would be involved though.. Maybe I should speak to a careers advisor? How else could I find out? Plus I think i have missed this years intake..

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is there someone you can call or email with your questions?

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Yes I could call the TAFE, I'm just impatient! Lol

At my uni, the flexible subjects aren't constrained to normal semesters, they have subjects starting every month. Think of it this way, if a subject you needed to do was offered in September and you got your enrolment in in time, you could technically start the subject then.

Oh ok.. So it wouldn't necessarily be like when i studied face to face where we did subjects in a certain sequence. I will definitely call the TAFE tomorrow..

You still do them in a certain sequence but you're not restricted to the start time of typical university semesters.

oh ok, I get it. Cool.

Thanks so much everyone for taking the time to reply :)

You can enroll in certain units at a time and you have six months from enrollment to complete. This way you can make the course alot more flexible to your needs. I'm doing the TAE at the moment through the same program delivery as you are and it's great.