Curtin University and The University of Queensland (UQ) have developed a new Professional Certificate Program that will increase understanding of the modern mining industry in Australia and open pathways to postgraduate study for people currently working within the industry.
The Foundations of Modern Mining Program is sponsored by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) and consists of six courses available globally via the edX platform.
Associate Professor Chris Rawson, Dean of Learning and Teaching for Curtin's Faculty of Science and Engineering, said the new Program will help learners up-skill within their current industry role and improve their understanding of the minerals and mining sector.
"The mining industry within Australia is constantly evolving and it is important to keep track of emerging technologies and modern techniques that are being used by mining companies and affiliated professions," Associate Professor Rawson said.
"This new program will give participants a better understanding of key aspects of modern mining including the business of mining, mining operations, the digital transformation of mining, sustainability, leadership and diversity, and health, safety and wellness"
SMI's Director Professor Neville Plint said he was delighted SMI was partnering with Curtin University on this important initiative, taking advantage of the complementary expertise across the two institutions.
"The education landscape is changing rapidly, and this new Professional Certificate is an excellent example of a more flexible approach," Professor Plint said.
"It provides pathways to allow people to upskill to meet new demands for the mining workforce in a rapidly changing context."
MCA's Chief Executive Officer, Tania Constable, said providing flexible, high quality education and training is crucial to building the minerals workforce of the future.
"Support for this certificate course is part of a long-term substantial investment by MCA member companies to ensure the quality supply of Australian graduates for the mining industry," Ms Constable said.
"Effective, collaborative partnerships across industry, universities, government and the community are essential to reinvigorate learning pathways, student experiences and outcomes to attract and engage diverse talent."
Senior staff from Curtin University's Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) and UQ's Sustainable Minerals Institute and the School of Business will teach the six courses within the program.
Completion of the Professional Certificate will provide an entry pathway into Postgraduate Certificate courses at both universities.
Further information on the Professional Certificate Program, The Foundations of Modern Mining, can be found online here.
