The End of the University As We Know It

From encyclopaedias to bookstores, the digital revolution has reshaped how we access information—and now, traditional universities are in its sights. With online learning on the rise and students questioning the cost and value of a degree, higher education is undergoing a seismic shift. But is it the end of university—or just a new beginning?

The Education Model Is Changing

It’s no longer just about lectures, lecture theatres and full-time study on campus. The modern learner demands flexibility, relevance, and accessibility. In 2025, universities are being pushed to evolve—or risk becoming obsolete.

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), online microcredentials, and self-paced learning options are becoming mainstream. With major institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Australia’s Monash University offering free or low-cost online courses, the traditional ‘bums on seats’ model is being challenged like never before.

MOOCs and the Rise of Global Learning

What are MOOCs?

MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) offer free or low-cost university-level education online, accessible to anyone with internet access. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn partner with leading global universities to deliver interactive content, graded assessments, and even qualifications.

Why are they so popular?

MOOCs provide:

• Flexible, self-paced learning
• Affordable (often free) course access
• Real-time data that helps educators improve outcomes
• Global peer discussion and collaborative learning

And in contrast to the traditional one-size-fits-all lecture model, MOOCs can personalise learning experiences and adapt to student needs using real-time feedback and AI.

What This Means for Australian Universities

Australia has seen a steady expansion of online education through providers like Open Universities Australia and MOOCs offered through Open2Study (now closed), FutureLearn and edX. Universities like Curtin, Monash and Swinburne have expanded their online offerings significantly, but the competition is now global—and fierce.

Local institutions must now compete not just with each other, but with Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford—all accessible from a smartphone.

Professor James Barber, former Vice-Chancellor at the University of New England, once warned: “I’d rather cannibalise my own business than have someone else eat my lunch.” That future is now.

The Australian Government has supported online learning growth through initiatives like Jobs and Skills Australia and the Department of Education, but regulations still limit the presence of fully online-only universities here.

The Student Mindset Has Shifted

It’s about outcomes, not just credentials

Today’s students are asking different questions:

• Is a three-year degree worth the debt?
• Can I gain job-ready skills faster?
• What learning path fits my work-life situation?

This is why alternative pathways like microcredentials, online certificates, and stackable short courses are booming in popularity.

For career changers, parents, or professionals looking to upskill, a full-time campus degree might no longer make sense. Flexibility is now essential—not a luxury.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’re weighing your study options, ask yourself:

• Do I need a full university degree, or would a short course or microcredential get me where I want to go?
• Is flexibility important—can I study online or part-time?
• Is my chosen provider aligned with future job outcomes?

Check out our curated list of career-focused courses to find options in tech, business, healthcare, education and more. Or explore online courses that let you study anywhere, anytime.