VIC Misleading and deceptive conduct - what can I do?

[Smiley]

Hi,

Just wondering what options I have here?

I enrolled into a Master of Corporate Governance at a university (unsure if I should name?). However, halfway through the master due to the COVID-19 downturn, this master was discontinued. The director of the course suggested I transfer into a Master Business Administration Executive specialising in Corporate Governance. I asked the director what my testamur would show as I was not too interested and considered going to another university to finalise my studies. The director confirmed in writing via email, that my testamur would reflect my specialist. 'Your testamur will recognise corporate governance'.

Fast forward a few years, I have finalised my studies and will graduate soon. However, my testamur only shows Master Business Administration Executive. I contacted the university who advised testamurs do not show specialist studies. So I emailed the director, retaining the same email trail where he confirmed 'Your testamur will recognise corporate governance'. And he also advised testamurs do not reflect specialist studies, and to refer to my transcript of results to show my corporate governance specialist. I emailed again advising this differs significantly to what he previously confirmed in writing, I also telephoned and left a message to the director to no response.

I lodged a formal complaint with the university and I am currently awaiting a response. I expect the response to be the same. I was going to contact the ACCC but their website only states they report the incident internally against the organisation?

I feel misled because I only continued my studies at this university based on what the director confirmed to me in writing that I relied upon. The master cost me around $60,000 and I spent several years to complete it.

I appreciate any assistance.

Regards

 

[Rod]

Follow the formal grievance process first.

If that doesn't settle the matter, then ask the Uni to explain the next steps. Most (all?) Victorian Universities have their own legislation/regulations and I'd expect your next step to be the Victorian Ombudsman, and if the dispute is still not resolved then onto VCAT.

If you need help framing your arguments our firm can assist as much or as little as you need.

 

[Smiley]

Hi Rod,

I appreciate your prompt and informative response. I shall take this into consideration.

The Victorian based university responded and as expected, declined my complaint. They acknowledge pre 2016 they used to show specialisations on testamurs but post 2016 they ceased this practice, hence the confusion and incorrect information provided to me from their director. They advised their current "university rules" prevents them from honouring what they advised in writing to me, that is for my testamur to show my specialisation. Note they were silent on what rules and did not provide a copy of the said rules.

The university advised I can ask them to have another university representative reconsider my complaint prior to going to the Victorian Ombudsman. I am currently doing so.

Regards