306141 v.1 Master of Natural Systems Engineering

Introduction

This collaborative program is undertaken at the four Western Australian Public Universities - Curtin University of Technology, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University and the University of Western Australia. It is intended to meet the needs of students and employers for graduates with fundamental knowledge of the structure and functioning of natural systems, an understanding of the multi-disciplinary nature of those systems, knowledge of the various concepts of natural systems management and the principles of sustainable management. Graduates are also expected to gain skills in the application of modelling, experimental design and application of management solutions to environmental problems.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

A bachelors degree in science or equivalent and be able to demonstrate, possibly by way of relevant occupational experience, the ability to complete the course requirements.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis, however students must still complete on corse unit at each of the participating universities. Applicants with a four year degree in science or engineering may be grantedrecognition of prior learning.

Duration and Availability

This fee-paying course is two years full-time or equivalent part-time study. At this stage it is not planned to be offered to international students.It is anticipated that the first intake will be in 2005.

Course Organisation

Each institution offers at least three units per year. At least one of these units will be an intensive one. Candidates must undertake one coursework (non-project) unit at each participating University, eight coursework (non-project) units and a compulsory project. If possible, the remaining eight units are selected to ensure an equal number of units are undertaken at each participating University.

Career Opportunities

Graduates undertaking this degree will already be employed by various consulting companies, environmental agencies and water authorities. Aimed at professional development of practising engineers and scientists, it has been structured to provide life long learning skills to participant. Employers will benefit in terms of having a work force that is more competitive in an international market because of the skills and knowledge development received through the degree.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Special Note

Students may enrol at any one of the four participating institutions to undertake this collaborative program provided they satisfy course entry/prerequisite requirements. Curtin course enrolling students - Students who have nominated Curtin as their Enrolling Institution will be admitted at Curtin, undertake Curtin units (including the project dissertation) and complete units at the other participating institutions on a cross-institutional basis. All units undertaken will appear in the Curtin academictranscript. Curtin will award the degree on satisfactory completion, such award bearing the crests of all participating institutions. Non-Curtin course enrolling students - Students who have nominated another of the participating institutions as their Enrolling Institution will complete Curtin units cross-institutionally under a non-award program and have those units credited towards their degree. Unit fees are paid at each institution undertaken.

Availability

Availability Information has not been provided by the respective School or Area. Prospective/current students should contact the School or Area listed above for further information.