309472 v.1 Graduate Certificate in Enterprise and Technology

Introduction

The course aims to educate practicing engineers and scientists in enterprise and business skills. Enterprise has been described as a way of thinking, reasoning and acting that is opportunity driven, holistic in nature and leadership balanced. An individual takes responsibility to pursue and deliver value from an opportunity without regard for resources controlled currently. That individual is in control and responsible for the outcomes. The road from concept to commercial product is complex and entrepreneurs require many skills, including judgement of when and whom to seek input from, and when to act on intuition. World wide there is a shortage of engineers and scientists who can address problems and deliver innovative and creative solutions in a commercial environment. Engineers and scientists obtain quantitative and professional skills through their existing education. The course aims first to teach basic enterprise and business skills. Secondly, to develop the qualitative side - the creative, imaginative, interpersonal and social skills that are essential in successful business ventures. Thirdly, quantitative and qualitative skills are combined into a coherent framework which delivers entrepreneurial practice in the commercial environment.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

Entry is with a bachelor degree in an engineering, science or technology subject at honours level, preferably with some industry experience. In some cases, applicants without an honours degree but with appropriate work experience will be admitted at the discretion of the course coordinator.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis. A student may, under specific circumstances, receive a waiver for basic units. In this case the student must substitute an alternative unit approved by the course coordinator. Equivalent units from other institutions may be acceptable if approved by the course coordinator.

Duration and Availability

The course is one semester full time study.

Course Organisation

The course aims to introduce basic business and commercial concepts and skills to engineers and scientists. The focus of the course is on those basic business skills that are central to SET commercial ventures, with a strong emphasis on practical entrepreneurial application. Key topics include legal marketing and financial basics in a SET environment, strategy and its implementation, risk evaluation, organisational dynamics, interpersonal skills, business plans and how to start a business.

Career Opportunities

Enterprise is the driving force of most economies, particularly Australia. World wide there is a shortage of engineers and scientists who can address problems and deliver innovative and creative solutions in a commercial environment. Graduates will have acquired the skills to set up and run entrepreneurial business ventures in the science, engineering and technology areas, or to lead new ventures in larger organisations (enterprise).

Additional Course Expenses

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

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.

Curtin University of Technology
Current as of: January 28, 2005
CRICOS provider code 00301J