Online Courses Handbook 2003

151204 v.3 Master of Futures Studies

Introduction
Futures Studies has a role to play in helping shape the coming human future (Bell 1997). This unique course is multidisciplinary and incorporates both theoretical and experiential approaches. Of primary importance is the contribution futures studies can make to strategic thinking in business and society. That is, understanding the rapidly changing market conditions, customers and competitors in order to determine areas for growth, future demands and potential pitfalls. This type of thinking applies as much to government policy making as it does to private enterprise concerns. Graduates are armed with the tools to assist companies, governments and individuals with their strategic thinking and strategic decision making by helping them envision alternative futures, plan for these alternative futures and manage any accompanying issues of organisational and societal change.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
A strong academic record in a bachelors degree with at least three years relevant work experience in fields such as public policy, business, economics, humanities and health sciences.

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

Duration and Availability
This fee paying course is of three semesters full-time or equivalent part -time study. Students may complete the program within one year. Individual units may be undertaken with a certificate of completion issued.

Course Organisation
The program consists of six coursework units and a research project and report. The coursework units are run sequentially as three week intensive programs. Compulsory attendance is required at six presentations by guest 'future thinkers' to encourage broad thinking on futures issues. Where possible the research project should be related to the student's area of work. The topic selected must be approved by the student's employer and the course coordinator. Appropriate University staff members will be assigned to supervise the project. Research will be conducted during second semester and the report written over the ensuing summer period. Full-time students will need to submit their research report in the early part of first semester of the year followingenrolment. Part-time students must successfully complete all coursework units before commencing their research project.

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. Additional costs for accommodation during residential segments and for outdoor activities related to the course will apply.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit

Year 1

13627 v.3 Introduction to Futures and Foresight Studies 501 15.0 25.0

13628 v.3 Qualitative Futures and Scenario Research 503 3.0 25.0

13629 v.3 Quantitative Futures Research 505 15.0 25.0

13630 v.4 Issues for the Future 502 15.0 25.0

13631 v.3 International Risk Management 504 15.0 25.0

13632 v.3 Engineering of Futures Systems 506 15.0 25.0

13633 v.3 Futures Project Research 691 100.0

13634 v.3 Futures Project Report 691 50.0

300.0

# Part-time students must undertake Futures Project Research 693 and Futures Project Research 694