Flinders University has positioned itself to make a major contribution to the most dynamic sectors of the State’s economy with plans to offer five new Bachelor of Engineering courses in 2009, according to the Chancellor, Sir Eric Neal.
“The new courses will build on the University’s teaching and research strengths in biomedical, robotics, electronics, computer systems and software engineering and will equip graduates for careers in such diverse industries as medicine, mining, defence and industry,” Sir Eric said.
Sir Eric was commenting after a University Council meeting decision yesterday.
“Flinders’ strong commitment to teaching engineering reflects the current and anticipated high demand for highly skilled professional engineers across the private and public sectors of the economy,” Sir Eric said.
Flinders’ Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Barber, said South Australia was witnessing extraordinary growth in the defence and mining sectors which are establishing long term design and construction capabilities in this State.
“Flinders intends making the maximum contribution possible to the skills and experience required for this emerging and highly sophisticated industrial base,” Professor Barber said.
“The University is also an active supporter of efforts by the State and Federal governments and the business sector to stimulate new and expanded small to medium enterprises in Adelaide’s southern regions,” he said.
“Boosting the available pool of engineering graduates will ensure that the required skills are available in a post-Mitsubishi era as new business and employment opportunities are explored and realised.
“It is clear from student admissions information that a recent State-wide lift in interest in engineering courses is not reflected by applicants from the southern region of Adelaide, suggesting the absence of some courses in this area is affecting the first course preferences of some students.
“Flinders’ nationally recognised industry placement program provides students with 20 weeks of structured industrial work experience with one of 100 local, national and international organisations – often leading to an ongoing employment with that company. This element of our engineering program distinguishes Flinders’ courses from their counterparts and is well regarded by students and host companies alike.”
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