Charles Sturt University (CSU) is introducing a new engineering program
from 2016 that combines undergraduate and postgraduate study with industry
experience.
To be mostly delivered online while students undertake four one-year
paid industry placements, the 5½-year Bachelor of Technology and Master of
Engineering (Civil Systems) program is expected to produce a new type of
engineer, according to Foundation Professor of Engineering at CSU, Professor
Euan Lindsay.
Professor Lindsay explains that CSU plans to attract students from all
walks of life to the innovative program; the University seeks students who have
strengths in the classic engineering fields of study, but who can also
communicate effectively with non-engineers, and can bring their passion for the
field to life.
Students will spend the first 18 months of the program studying on
campus in purpose-built, state-of-the-art facilities at Charles Sturt
University in Bathurst, and then undertake four one-year paid industry
placements while completing their studies online. The structure is expected to
provide industry experience and networking opportunities to students as well as
a head-start towards Chartered Professional Engineer status.
The new engineering program is being developed in collaboration with
industry and education experts from around the world. Professor Lindsay
commented that it will be the only engineering program in Australia that is
part of a Faculty of Business, which allows them to build students’ skills in
communication, finance and management, along with technical engineering
expertise.
CSU aims to produce highly-skilled, entrepreneurial engineers who are equipped
to step straight into industry or start their own businesses.
Charles Sturt University Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Vann said the
program would benefit the University’s communities, as well as prospective
students. Observing that communities will benefit from having skilled,
experienced professionals that contribute to their local economy, he noted that
educating engineers in the regions creates a workforce that is better able to
be a part of regional communities, and create future opportunities for them.