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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2011

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2011.
Information for current year courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2010.

308719 v.1 Master of Science - Science

MSc(Curtin)

Course CRICOS Code: 061489J
Registered full-time Duration for International Onshore Students on student visas: 2 Years

Introduction

This course is designed for students with a Science undergraduate pass degree intending to broaden and extend their academic and research background in science and technology. The program is particularly useful for graduates in one scientific discipline wishing to study in another area of science, or for students seeking employment in a multidisciplinary science environment. Major areas of study are Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematical Sciences, Industrial Enginering, Dryland Agricultural Systems, Environmental Biology and Management and Sustainable Aquaculture. The course recognises the multidisciplinary nature of many current areas of science and technology and its application in solving real world problems. Several major research projectunits within the course provide students with opportunities to develop high levels of communication and research skills whilst developing a deeper understanding in a specific area of interest.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

A bachelor degree in science or an approved equivalent. Students are required to have achieved competency in their chosen major area of study to the level of second year in a related BSc. An honours degree in Science or the relevant postgraduate diploma is a prerequisite for direct entry into the second year of this course. Enquiries should be directed to the Course Coordinator.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability

This full fee paying course is two years' full-time or equivalent part-time study when entry is gained through a bachelor's degree in science or one year's full-time or equivalent part-time study, when the entry requirement of honours or postgraduate diploma has been met. Flexibility in modes of study exists to meet individual study requirements for instance, a mix of full and part-time study, or students may undertake intensive periods of course study or project work over the summer or vacation periods.

Intermediate Awards 1

A student who has successfully completed the requirements of an approved intermediate award may apply for graduation in that award subject to approval of Head of School/Department. Fees apply. Intermediate award(s) approved for this course are:

Intermediate Awards II

Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Dryland Agricultural Systems); Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Environmental Biology and Management); Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Computer Science); Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Mathematical Sciences); Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Industrial Engineering) and Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Physics); Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Sustainable Aquaculture).

Course Organisation

Specifically, the course has been structured to accommodate student differences and preferences in various areas of the applied science. A limited number of units are also available which incorporate accelerated learning outcomes for subsequent study of topics or areas where specific preparation deficiencies are identified. The structure of each major is Science Research Methodologies - core 25 credits, project units 100 credits, major units 150 credits, preparatory units/optional units 125 credits. Notes: 1. Students must complete a minimum of 150 credits in their major area of study. 2. Industrial Engineering is a double degree and is necessarily more prescriptive - options are limited. 3. A preparatory unit is any senior undergraduate unit within the Science School that will provide the relevant skills and background to pursue postgraduate major units. Preparatory units cannot exceed 75 credits. 4. Up to 50 credits of optional units may be chosen from available units across the University. 5. Modifications on the course structure can be made according to a student's individual requirements in consultation with the course coordinator.

Career Opportunities

Master of Science graduates may be employed in a wide range of commercial, industrial or government organisations, for example, as research scientists in multidisciplinary research teams, or as science and technology advisors to the industrial and commercial sector. Students considering a career in any of the applied sciences will find the course particularly stimulating. A high level of international professional mobility can be expected by graduates.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other essential study materials.

Special Note

Students undertaking undergraduate units within the Master of Science will be expected to demonstrate a high level of understanding in the specific topic.

Course Structure Disclaimer

Curtin University reserves the right to alter the internal composition of any course to ensure learning outcomes retain maximum relevance. Any changes to the internal composition of a course will protect the right of students to complete the course within the normal timeframe and will not result in additional cost to students through a requirement to undertake additional units.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
310861 v.1   Computer Science Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  OR  
310860 v.1   Physics Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  OR  
310709 v.2   Mathematical Sciences Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  OR  
310708 v.2   Industrial Engineering Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  OR  
313565 v.1   Sustainable Aquaculture Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  OR  
313574 v.1   Dryland Agricultural Systems Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  OR  
313573 v.1   Environmental Biology and Management Major (Master of Science) 400.0
  400.0

Availability

Year Location Period All* Internal Partially Online Internal^ External Fully Online#
2011 Bentley Campus Semester 1   Y      
2011 Bentley Campus Semester 2   Y      

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

* The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.

^ Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.

# Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.