Program Overview
The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science at Murdoch University equips students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in environmental management. Through a combination of required and elective units, students explore various aspects of environmental science, including GIS, land and water management, and environmental monitoring. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, prepares graduates for careers in environmental consulting and management, and encourages engagement in sustainability initiatives.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage human interactions with the environment. The program emphasizes the inter-relationships between land, water, air, biota, and people, providing a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues in various settings, including urban, mining, agricultural, and aquatic environments. The program aims to:
- Enhance existing qualifications in Environmental Science or provide the necessary skills and knowledge for individuals working in related fields like geology, forestry, agriculture, zoology, botany, or planning.
- Develop a deep understanding of the science, policies, procedures, and techniques involved in environmental planning and management.
- Foster a multidisciplinary understanding of Environmental Science and proficiency in various techniques employed in environmental management. Upon completion, students may be eligible to pursue a Master of Environmental Science.
Outline:
The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science consists of 24 credit points, divided into required units and specified elective units.
Required Units (15 credit points):
- ENV303 GIS for Environmental Management and Planning (3 credit points): This unit explores the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in environmental management and planning.
- ENV554 Land and Water Management (3 credit points): This unit focuses on sustainable land and water management practices, particularly in agricultural, forestry, and mining activities.
- ENV557 Advanced Environmental Management (3 credit points): This unit delves into advanced concepts and techniques in environmental management.
- ENV558 Environmental Monitoring (3 credit points): This unit covers environmental monitoring methods, including the use of GIS and remote sensing for designing, implementing, and managing monitoring programs.
- ENV601 Coastal Policy and Management (3 credit points): This unit examines coastal policy and management strategies.
Specified Elective Units (9 credit points):
Students can choose from a range of elective units, including:
- ENV527 Environmental Science Topics (3 credit points): This unit explores specific topics in environmental science.
- ENV556 Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment (3 credit points): This unit covers the principles and methodologies of environmental impact assessment.
- PEN505 Climate Change Risk Assessment, Adaptation Planning and Resilience (3 credit points): This unit focuses on climate change risk assessment, adaptation planning, and building resilience.
- PEN504 Greenhouse Gas Reporting and Life Cycle Assessment (3 credit points): This unit explores greenhouse gas reporting and life cycle assessment methodologies.
- PEN597 Climate Change Science and Policy (3 credit points): This unit examines the science and policy aspects of climate change.
- SUS512 Sustainability, Ecology and Communities (3 credit points): This unit explores the relationship between sustainability, ecology, and communities.
- SUS5231 Cities and Sustainability (3 credit points): This unit focuses on urban sustainability and planning.
- ENV616 Environmental Policy for the 21st Century (3 credit points): This unit examines contemporary environmental policy issues.
- ENV536 Education for Sustainability (3 credit points): This unit explores education strategies for promoting sustainability.
Careers:
Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science are well-prepared for careers in the public and private sectors, including the consulting industry in Australia and overseas. Potential career paths include:
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Scientist – Impact Assessment and Management
- Regional Planning Coordinator
- Bushland Management Officer
- Natural Resource Management (NRM) Officer
Other:
The program emphasizes the importance of engaging individuals, communities, and organizations in change processes to achieve environmental and sustainability outcomes. It also highlights the role of education in promoting sustainability. The program is highly flexible, offering on-campus and online study options, as well as full-time and part-time enrollment. Murdoch University offers scholarships, such as the Murdoch University Academic Excellence Award, to support students financially.
