Choosing breadth subjects at the University of Melbourne (UniMelb) can significantly influence your WAM (Weighted Average Mark) and overall university experience. Many students look for easy breadths to boost their GPA while balancing demanding core subjects. Discussions on Reddit and forums offer valuable insights into which subjects are both manageable and enjoyable. Below, you’ll find an indepth look at easy breadths at UniMelb and firsthand impressions from real students shared on Reddit and other community platforms.
What Are Breadth Subjects at UniMelb?
Understanding Breadth Requirements
Breadth subjects allow you to explore areas outside your major faculty. Designers of UniMelb’s curriculum encourage students to take around 50 points of breadth (usually four subjects). Most courses cap Level 1 breadth at 37.5 points, meaning you can only take up to three beginner subjects as breadth in your first year.
The Purpose of Breadth
Breadth subjects help you develop interdisciplinary skills, explore new interests, and sometimes meet prerequisites for future graduate courses. But many students end up choosing breadths simply to maintain a strong WAM.
Top Recommendations for Easy Breadths
Insights from Reddit and Other Students
According to UniMelb community discussions, certain faculties are known for offering easy breadth subjects that often double as WAM boosters:
- Language breadths (e.g. Chinese or Spanish Level 1)
- Music subjects (e.g. African Dance, Intro Music courses, Gamelan)
- University-wide breadths like Australia in the Wine World
- Sport-based courses such as Sports Coaching and Media
One student shared:
I would definitely do at least level 1 of a language It’s an extremely difficult subject to fail you shouldn’t have a problem getting a good mark.
Another commented:
Music all the lower level subjects you basically rock up, mess around get marks for participation an easy H1 will be confirmed.
Examples of Popular Breadths
- CHIN10001 or SPAN10001 (Level 1 language) user-rated easy to score high.
- MUSI100xx or African Dance & Drums graded largely on participation and enjoyable practice.
- UNIB100xx like Australia in the Wine World noted jokingly as content-light but fun.
- Sport and education-themed courses e.g., Sports Coaching: Theory and Practice.
Why They’re Considered Easy
Common Features
- Low reading and writing workload, often based around quizzes or practical activities.
- Frequent in-class participation or creative assignments rather than heavy essays.
- Noncompetitive assessment many students report high average marks.
- Beginner level content intended for students with no prior experience.
Forums also note that arts faculties tend to award fewer H1s, but beginner language and music courses often buck that trend with accessible grading.
Considerations Before Choosing an Easy Breadth
Academic Interest vs Grade Boost
While many students pick breadth subjects purely for ease, others recommend selecting breadths that align with personal interests or career goals. The First Year Diaries blog reminds students to use your credits wisely rather than just choosing bulge subjects for convenience.
Limitations on Level 1 Breadths
Since most degrees restrict Level 1 breadths to 37.5 points, you’ll need to pick at least one higherlevel breadth subject later. Consider whether the beginner subjects you choose set you up well for future planning.
Difficulty Scaling and Grading Practices
Some disciplines may curve or scale results, influencing your final grade. While many easy breadths remain consistent in grade output, scaling practices differ across faculties for example, math and commerce subjects may scale more heavily.
Student Feedback Highlights
Voice from the Forums
One user on Whirlpool reflected:
Good/Easy Level 1 Breadth Subjects many talk of suitable breadth subjects at UniMelb often about second or third year students.
Another commented:
Management subjects are supposedly easy, if you don’t slack off and of course the ever infamous wine tasting Australia in the Wine World.
Tips for Choosing Breadth Subjects Wisely
Identify Your Goals
Decide whether you aim to relax a semester, explore something new, or strategically boost your GPA. If WAM is the priority, low-effort subjects like Level 1 language or introductory music may help.
Check Assessments and Workload
Look at the subject’s assessment style quiz-based, participation, essay-heavy and student reviews. A quick scan through StudentVIP subject ratings can highlight expected workloads and grades.
Balance Interest and Effort
Even if you choose an easy breadth, engaging with the content can make the experience more rewarding and memorable. Consider subjects you might enjoy even if they’re straightforward.
At UniMelb, selecting easy breadths like beginner language, music, sport, or cultural subjects can provide a desirable balance between enjoyment and academic performance. Reddit comments and forum posts affirm that many students find these courses manageable and often beneficial to their WAM. However, remember that breadth is also a space to explore new disciplines and develop broader skills. By considering both ease and personal interest, you can fulfill the breadth requirement and make your university experience more enriching and less stressful.