More than 160 students have enrolled to study subjects including nursing, social work, education, business and the arts.
University head of campus Elizabeth Capp said the new students were a good mix of school leavers and mature-aged students at least 21 years old.
“We really want their university experience — whatever their position in life is — to be transformative in the way we know education can be,” Ms Capp said.
“We want them to have both a wonderful academic experience but also a wonderful experience connecting with La Trobe, the other students and the large scale of things they can take part in around their studies."
The university hopes many of the students stay in the area after graduating.
Ms Capp said the university courses on offer reflected the skills needed in Greater Shepparton.
“There's lots of evidence across all regions that students who can study in the region will tend to stay and work in the region,” Ms Capp said.
“It's around at least 80%.
“The Shepparton campus is here because the community really pushed hard to get it in the mid 90s because they could see the connection between having a university campus here and developing the regional workforce.”
New student Penny Scott enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing after wanting to upskill from her current role as a nursing assistant.
“I have wanted to become a nurse for quite some time now,” Ms Scott said.
“I am really looking forward to studying in a place where I already have a job.
“I want to specialise in paediatrics, as I love the idea of working with children and looking after their health."
During O Week, students will take part in a range of on-campus events designed to guide them into university life.
On Friday, students will learn the tricks and tips for staying on the right study path with the campus's One Step Ahead program.
Ms Capp said the session would benefit all students but especially those that have been out of school for a few years.
“It's aimed to take the anxiety out of university,” Ms Capp said.
“It will teach students how to prepare ideas, write essays and (give them) the skills to find the best resources."
La Trobe University will host a number of influential speakers and community forums throughout the year and staff are looking forward to inviting the wider Shepparton community to the campus.
