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Bachelor of Coastal Studies now available
27 October, 2005
An innovative new science degree is being offered at the University of the Sunshine Coast for the first time in 2006.
The Bachelor of Coastal Studies combines water catchment, river, estuary and marine studies in a unique blend, providing graduates with a complete overview of the water cascade - from catchment to the ocean.
Students will graduate with a total understanding of coastal issues, processes and vulnerabilities according to course coordinator Professor Chris Crossland.
"The course delivers fundamental training and appreciation of the total coastal zone with the added flexibility of in-depth study and specialisation in particular areas of interest," Professor Crossland said.
As with all of USC's degrees, it was developed with awareness of industry needs, and with many years experience in making science useful for solving coastal problems, Professor Crossland has brought a clear vision of what employers want from today's university graduates.
"This course provides graduates with both career versatility and the knowledge and skills that employers are looking for," he said.
"The Bachelor of Coastal Studies provides a complete framework for coastal zone management by addressing river catchments and the adjacent ocean as a whole," Professor Crossland said.
A unique aspect of the USC degree is that it focuses not only on the natural sciences, but includes social sciences - the human impact on these vulnerable areas.
"The industry needs graduates who fully understand the intricate links between the environmental, social and economic issues associated with the coastal zone.
"Graduates will have the knowledge, skills and tools to work in technical or managerial roles or to go on to further research through a higher degree.
Offering the degree on the Sunshine Coast has obvious geographical benefits for students too.
"Where better to study the coast than on the Coast?" Professor Crossland said.
"Field experience is an important aspect of this degree and was a major consideration in the development of the curriculum."
With extensive research and teaching facilities in the Fraser Island and Great Sandy Straits region, USC Coastal Studies students will have a unique educational experience.
Another strength of the degree is the input from USC academics and adjunct Professors.
They bring international and government expertise in the areas of coastal vulnerability, climate change, geographical information systems, bio-chemistry, coastal and sediment focus and air quality, just to name a few.
With more than 30 new degrees being introduced next year taking the total number available to more than 100, there is still time to enrol. Visit www.usc.edu.au to discover all USC has to offer.
Academic profile:
Professor Crossland (BSc(Hons) Auck., MSc Auck., PhD James Cook) worked as a research scientist on coral reefs and coastal marine ecosystems with the Australian Institute of Marine Science and the CSIRO for 20 years.
He has also been involved in international research projects in the Middle East, South East Asia and Central America resolving coastal issues.
Professor Crossland has established and led major Australian research programs addressing coastal problems and societal needs, including the National Pulp Mills Program, Port Phillip Bay Environmental Study and the government-industry sponsored Cooperative Research Centre for the Great Barrier Reef.
He was the Executive Officer for the coastal zone core project of the International Geosphere-Biosphere Program, coordinating and leading a network of international scientists evaluating global changes in the coastal zone (1998-2003).
Professor Crossland received the CSIRO Chairman's Medal jointly in 1996, the Australian Science Communicators 'Unsung Hero' Award (1997) and Hon DSc (James Cook University) in 2000.