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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2013 - [ Archived April 2013 ]

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2011.

Resources and Facilities

Alumni

Curtin graduates become part of the Curtin alumni community – a worldwide network with more than 170,000 professionals. Alumni Relations facilitates events and activities aimed at providing ongoing value to your degree. This includes networking, volunteering, mentoring and professional development opportunities. Alumni Relations acan also be contacted through Facebook and LinkedIn.

For more information:
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am – 4 pm
Location: Building 100
Tel: +61 8 9266 3113
Fax: +61 8 9266 7527
Email: alumni@curtin.edu.au
Web: alumni.curtin.edu.au
Facebook: facebook.com/curtinalumni
LinkedIn: Curtin University Alumni
Twitter: @curtinalumni

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Counselling and Disability Services

 

Counselling services

These free and confidential services are available to staff and students. Professional staff are available to assist with educational, personal matters, students with disabilities, faith and spirituality, University policies and procedures, and to provide crisis support.

The Counselling Service offers a range of psycho-educational workshop and therapeutic group programs during the year for staff, undergraduate, postgraduate and international students. The topics covered include:

These sessions are advertised via OASIS and on the Counselling Services website.

Staff are available by appointment between 8 am and 6 pm, Monday to Thursday and between 8 am and 4.30 pm on Friday, all year round on the Bentley Campus. Information regarding services at other locations may be obtained from the website.

Triage

All new clients or clients that have not been seen by the service for some time are required to be seen by the triage counsellor as this is the standard intake procedure. (Not applicable for staff.)

The Curtin University Counselling Services aims to meet the needs of all of our clients as soon as possible. As with all health services, at times, we may have a ‘waiting period’ for a ‘standard’ counselling appointment.

The triage counsellor will conduct a brief assessment of your needs and schedule a counselling appointment based on the assessment of the urgency and complexity of your situation. It is thus very important that you tell the triage counsellor as much information as possible about your situation and what you are seeking. Generally, the triage counsellor may not be the counsellor that you will be scheduled to see for further help about the situation that brought you in.

*** PLEASE NOTE: The service is only able to accommodate a maximum of twelve individuals during each of the sessions below. If you present after this, you will typically be asked to return for the following session and to come as close to the start time as possible, remembering that the earliest appointment times will be allocated 30 minutes prior to the start of the session.

Triage opening hours:
Mon, Tue, Thur and Fri: 9 am – 11 am / 1 pm – 3 pm
Wed: 9 am – 11 am

If you are requesting a supporting letter from CDS you will be required to provide supporting documentation to verify circumstances.

List of appropriate documentation to verify circumstances:

Disability services

The Disability Service provides advice and assistance to students with disabilities or medical conditions that may impact on their studies. They can assist in matters of access, specialised equipment, alternative examination arrangements, study materials in accessible formats and other support needs.

Curtin’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan and details of further support can be found on the Disability@Curtin website at: disability.curtin.edu.au

Social Support Services

This service is designed to help students with their immediate and long term social wellbeing needs by utilising on and off campus community agencies.

Services include:

*** Note: This service does not provide advocacy for students. Students should be referred to the student guild for advocacy support.

Multi-Faith Services

The Multi-Faith Officer (MFO) is available for both personal support and general consultation on matters of faith and spirituality. The MFO does not represent any denomination, faith or religious organisation on campus, but provides wide-ranging support, both directly and indirectly through liaison with representatives of various faiths and denominations.

Contact details:
Counselling and Disability Services
Multi-Faith Services
Tel: +61 8 9266 7850
Fax: +61 8 9266 3052
TTY: +61 8 9266 4112
Freecall: 1800 651 878
Web:
counselling.curtin.edu.au
disability.curtin.edu.au
multifaith.curtin.edu.au

CurtinFM 100.1

CurtinFM 100.1 is Curtin's campus-based community broadcaster. The station's highly successful mainstream format acts as a conduit for promoting the University's teaching and learning initiatives; recruiting for research programs; advertising clinics; promoting research and acknowledging the contribution made by University sponsors.

Many Curtin academics act as commentators in support of the station's afternoon talks program. Curtin FM 100.1 broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week and covers the entire Perth metropolitan area.

The station caters mainly to listeners in the 45+ demographic and plays a mix of popular classics. CurtinFM 100.1 also acts as a workshop/training area for media and information studies students as well as supporting students from other disciplines across campus who are keen to acquire broadcast related skills such as radio production, marketing, promotions, research and information management. The station also conducts media training courses for University staff.

Tune in to 100.1 on the FM band or listen to Curtin Digital on Curtin DG.
Tel: +61 8 9266 2121
Web: curtinfm.com.au

Curtin Student Guild

The Curtin Student Guild is an essential part of the University environment and plays an active role in representing student interests, providing welfare and other support services to students, running most of the food/ retail outlets on campus and organising many of the social and club-based activities that make Curtin University such a vibrant community. The student representatives elected to Guild Council each year sit on almost all university boards and committees as well as a range of selection panels ensuring students have an active say in University decision making.

The Guild’s Student Assist department is the Guild’s welfare, support and advocacy service and is available to all Curtin students with any personal, welfare or academic issues. Student Assist can help with termination advice, academic appeals, conditional status support, tenancy advice, resume and interview advice, budget assistance and much more.

In 2011 the Student Services and Amenities Fee was introduced through federal legislation with the aim of restoring depleted funding to non- academic aspects of the university experience. The legislation allows Universities to charge students an annual fee of up to $263 which can be deferred through a HECS-style income-contingent loan called the Student Amenities-HELP (SA-HELP). This fee can be used to fund additional student services on campus like sporting facilities, advocacy, healthcare, improvements to student housing, food and beverage and also entertainment.

Presently the Guild negotiates on an annual basis to have access to SSAF fees to provide essential services to students; it also sits on the University’s SSAF advisory committee, overseeing all expenditure of these funds by the University and Guild.

Under the Curtin University of Technology Act 1966 (WA), all students automatically become members of the Student Guild on enrolment. However, students may elect at the time of enrolment not to become a member of the Student Guild or may subsequently resign from Student Guild membership at any time.

For more information on Student Guild services, and what is available, refer to: www.guild.curtin.edu.au

Curtin Bookshop

The Bookshop is located in the John Curtin Centre, Building 200, and is open 8.30 am – 5 pm Monday to Thursday, and 8.30 am – 4.30 pm Friday. Extended trading hours from 8.30 am – 6 pm from Monday to Thursday operate in the first two weeks of first semester and the first week of second semester. Orders can be placed on the website.

Tel: +61 8 9266 3469
Fax: +61 8 9266 3188
Web: bookshop.curtin.edu.au

The Curtin University Early Childhood Centre

The Curtin University Early Childhood Centre is in the grounds of the University’s Bentley Campus, Kent Street Bentley. The University operates the centre and priority is given to children of staff members and students of the University when vacancies occur. The centre provides a high level of care for children aged between six weeks to five years in a purpose built facility. Care is offered in nine separate areas that together cater for 133 children per day. A higher than required adult to child ratio is provided in the five nursery areas and the centre has a number of qualified carers in each room working alongside each qualified Team Leader. Early Childhood Teachers are Team Leaders in each of the two kindergarten aged groups.

The centre promotes a balanced approach to learning through exploration, enquiry and play in a caring and stimulating environment. Programs are designed for the children based on their interest and needs. A qualified chef prepares a balanced, healthy, nutritious menu for the children and also provides for special dietary requirements.

As the centre is an approved Commonwealth Government childcare centre, the Child Care Benefit (CCB) is available for eligible families. Opening hours are 7.30 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday.

Tel: +61 8 9266 7459
Fax: +61 8 9266 3742
Email: childcare@curtin.edu.au
Web: earlychildhoodcentre.curtin.edu.au

Future Students Centre

Located in Hayman Hall, Building 102 on the Bentley Campus, the Future Students Centre team is dedicated to providing future students with personalised attention right from the beginning of their Curtin experience. Their commitment is to deliver an exceptional service to future students and they look forward to helping you with your queries.

In support of the faculties and all areas of the University, the Future Students Centre aims to streamline the process for future students in choosing a course that’s right for them. You can read the course information on the Future Students site or ask your own question via our 'askcurtin' website.

Specific course advice and a range of information sessions are offered throughout the year.

For more information, refer to the Future Students Services website: futurestudents.curtin.edu.au
Tel: +61 8 9266 1000 or 1300 CU 1000
Email: cfuturestudents@curtin.edu.au
Web: futurestudents.curtin.edu.au

Health Services

Health services is situated in Building 109. A comprehensive range of general practice care is offered to Curtin students and staff, including information on drug usage, sexuality, stress management, travel medicine, immunisations, management of illnesses and injuries, shared antenatal care, nutrition advice and response to emergencies on campus. Male and female doctors are available for confidential consultations. Curtin students are bulk-billed or consultation cost is sent to the OSHC insurance provider.

Contact Health Services for an appointment. After hours first aid is available from 8 am to 6.45 pm, Monday to Friday.
Tel: +61 8 9266 7345
Web: healthservices.curtin.edu.au
The emergency procedure on campus is: Dial '5555' from internal telephones or from external telephones dial +61 8 9266 4444.

Housing Services

Housing services manages all on-campus student residences and maintains an extensive database of private accommodation near the Bentley Campus. Several off-campus options are available including shared housing, property rental and full board. Housing Services provides impartial information about on and off-campus alternatives, tenancy legislation and public transport.

Tel: +61 8 9266 4430
Web: housing.curtin.edu.au

Curtin International

The staff at Curtin International provide support to future international students by assisting with matters such as enrolments, providing course information, helping with sponsorship matters, dependant schooling and organising airport reception.

Curtin’s global presence is fostered through relationships with more than 400 international institutions across 40 different countries, serving the needs of staff and student exchange, academic and research collaborations and study abroad programs.

Curtin International
GPO Box S1512
Perth Western Australia 6845
Tel: +61 8 9266 7331
Fax: + 61 8 9266 2605 / 4013
Email: international@curtin.edu.au
Web: international.curtin.edu.au

Library

The TL Robinson library provides both print and online materials to support the teaching, learning and research activities at Curtin. You can search and use many library resources and services through the library website.

The library catalogue enables you to discover all of the library's resources from a single search box. Interactive online tutorials, library guides containing a range of learning tools, and library workshops can assist you in developing your research and study skills. Friendly and knowledgeable library staff are available to help with information and research needs, in person and through online help, such as our AskOnline chat service.

The TL Robinson library also offers innovative and interactive social and learning spaces such as laptop lounges, networked printing and scanning, and individual and group study areas. The iZone features graphics workstations, webcam capability and smartboards.

Tel: +61 8 9266 7166
SMS 0421 261 139
Web: library.curtin.edu.au

Campus and community life

The Hub is located in Building 303 on the Bentley Campus, and is a place for students and staff to work together in activities that run parallel to the normal University course curricula. They are committed to engaging with the wider community through initiatives and partnerships with organisations that share Curtin’s commitment to ethics, equity and social justice. Students participating in these programs claim they feel more connected to the University, enjoy their studies more, have improved marks and increased employability skills.

Web: community.curtin.edu.au

The following are some of the areas involved in campus and community life:

Curtin Volunteers!

Established in 1994, Curtin Volunteers! is Australia’s largest, student-run volunteer organisation for students, staff and the wider community. The organisation aims to create community-minded citizens by connecting people within the community in a variety of programs and projects. These include the popular John Curtin Weekends throughout October, on-going health, youth, indigenous and cross-cultural programs on and off campus, environmentally focused trips and events, and weekend-based programs in the remote communities of Laverton, Leonora and Wiluna.

Web: cv.curtin.edu.au

John Curtin Leadership Academy

The John Curtin Leadership Academy is Curtin’s prestigious flagship leadership program for undergraduate students at Curtin. Students are selected on the basis of excellent academic performance, demonstrated outstanding community service and leadership. The program runs over two semesters, with students developing leadership, project management, advanced communication, dispute resolution and entrepreneurial skills. The Academy has a strong link with Rotary, with students being placed with Rotary mentors with professional backgrounds that match the students’ field of study. The key outcome is a community project that meets a community need, with past projects including Youth Focus, Solariscare, Princess Margaret Hospital and Cystic Fibrosis.

John Curtin Undergraduate Scholars

The John Curtin Undergraduate Scholarship is awarded to new Curtin students on the basis of their excellent academic performance and outstanding community service and leadership. There are currently more than 50 scholars at Curtin, and they enjoy mentoring, community service and the networking opportunities with leaders in a number of fields.

Web: jcscholars.curtin.edu.au

John Curtin Weekend

Every October, in celebration of John Curtin Day, hundreds of Curtin volunteers travel to rural communities to assist local volunteers with a project of local and regional importance. Traditionally projects have included:

Web: jcweekend.curtin.edu.au

Service Abroad

Curtin has a number of partnerships with overseas universities to enhance student study abroad opportunities. Partnerships have been formed in the United States (US) with Southern Methodist University, Texas, Elon University, North Carolina, Kalamazoo College, Michigan, and Trinity College, Hartford Connecticut.

US students come to Curtin to advance their studies in all fields of education. They spend time working with community-based organisations and undertaking project work as part of the service abroad partnership program.

The Asia study tour runs for approximately three weeks in both January/February and November each year, with both our local and international students participating. Tours traditionally visit culturally diverse Asian countries that are characterised by rapidly growing populations and expectations of accelerating economic development. Students explore the socio-economic challenges faced in these countries, across a diverse range of study areas.

Web: community.curtin.edu.au/external/service_abroad.cfm

Curtin Community Projects

Curtin recognises that in addition to a solid educational foundation, graduates need to develop further skills and attributes emphasising service, social justice and ethical behaviour, which will equip them to become citizens valued in their community.

Curtin Community Projects include a wide range of activities and support for charities to incorporate community service as part of the fabric of university life, including students and staff. Curtin Community Projects underpin the University culture of social inclusion and reciprocity.

Fundraising activities support the Leukemia Foundation, Cancer Council, Princess Margaret Hospital, Movember, Parkerville Childrens’ Youth Centre and fundraisers for natural disasters. In addition, Curtin Community Projects also support the Australian Red Cross Blood Service with blood and bone marrow donations.

The Curtin community has raised $450,000 for charities, most recently raising $31,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave. This effort has Curtin currently ranked third highest fundraiser in Western Australia and in a strong position to retain the inter-university challenge trophy.

Web: community.curtin.edu.au/external/

Student Transition And Retention Team (START)

The Student Transition and Retention Team (START) is part of University Life Support Services, and provides a range of services to all Curtin students and staff. START encourages students to contact them directly with any issue that may be affecting their studies including personal, academic or welfare problems. The Online Service Finder can also help students find the most suitable support service if they are unsure.

You can visit the team in Building 102 (Future Students Centre/START) on the Bentley Campus. START oversees the delivery of the range of services and works closely with other areas of the University to improve student success and transition. Staff members are welcome to contact the START manager to discuss any matters (other than teaching and learning) that affect student progress. START also provides individual support to students who may be at risk of dropping out.

For a comprehensive set of resources related to student retention and persistence, refer to: unilife.curtin.edu.au/new_to_curtin

Students may be referred by concerned staff through: unilife.curtin.edu.au/online_support_form.htm

Tel: +61 8 9266 1663
Web: unilife.curtin.edu.au

The following are some of the areas within START:

START: Student Wellbeing Advisers

START’s student advisors are available to talk to any student about any issue that may be affecting their studies or sense of wellbeing. This may include things like overwhelming stress, settling into university, financial difficulties, switching courses, significant life events and where to get specific support at Curtin. Don’t be afraid to ask any question as all contact information is confidential. If a student adviser is not the best person to speak to about a particular issue, they will refer a student to the most appropriate person. Appointments can be made by contacting START or by dropping into Building 102.

Tel: +61 8 9266 2662
Toll free: 1800 244 043
Email: start@curtin.edu.au
Web: studentwellbeing.curtin.edu.au

START: Orientation and Student Activities

This area coordinates the International Information and Enrolment Week, Orientation Week and supports other student activities throughout the semester. Staff and students with any queries or ideas about the orientation program should contact the coordinator. If you would like to become an orientation volunteer, please visit the Curtin Volunteers!

Web: orientation.curtin.edu.au

START: Curtin Mentor Program

The mentor program connects new students to current students with the goal of a smooth transition to Curtin. Mentors can offer new students advice and answer their queries about starting at Curtin, navigating the range of services and options available to students on campus, study tips and more. Current students interested in being mentors or new students with any queries are welcome to contact the outreach officer. However, mentors are not expected to be teachers, proofread assignments, solve all problems, or be on call.

Web: mentoring.curtin.edu.au

START: Curtin Ally

The Curtin Ally program fosters a university culture inclusive of sexual and gender diversity in line with Curtin's equity policies and values. Participation in the Ally program is voluntary. Staff and students are invited to consider whether they would like to become Allies.

Web: ally.curtin.edu.au

Careers Centre

The Curtin Careers Centre helps students maximise their investment in education and is equipped to work with students from their first year to beyond graduation. The Centre’s purpose is to engage students with all aspects of career planning and development: from determining their goals to putting them in touch with employers and job search skills.

The Careers Centre runs a duty career counselling service on the Bentley campus, where students can call in during business hours Monday to Friday for a ten minute appointment on any career related query. Students may then be referred to a more in-depth appointment with their faculty careers consultant.

Students or graduates unable to visit the Centre on campus can make contact over the phone, via Skype or email.

For information on career planning and support services available to Curtin students refer to:
unilife.curtin.edu.au/careers/career_services_for_students.htm

For information on the Centre, including how to make the most of services, contact hours and staff refer to:
unilife.curtin.edu.au/careers/about_the_careers_centre.htm

To access the web-based job board, CareersConnect, which advertises positions vacant and includes all information, dates, times and venues of events for current students and graduates, refer to:
unilife.curtin.edu.au/careers/careersconnect.htm

For information around careers fairs, events and workshops that we host, refer to:
unilife.curtin.edu.au/careers/career_fairs_students.htm

Bentley Campus, Bldg 303, Level 2
Tel: +61 8 9266 7802
Email: careers@curtin.edu.au
Web: careers.curtin.edu.au

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