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USC introduces new property degree
You don’t need to look too hard to see how quickly the Sunshine Coast is growing. The University of the Sunshine Coast is introducing a new program to ensure that future development decisions are the right ones.
The new Bachelor of Property Economics and Development, which will welcome its first students in Semester 1, 2010, aims to equip graduates with the skills and industry knowledge to steer Australia’s property industry in the right direction.
Professor Mike Hefferan, USC’s Professor of Property and Development, said the new degree will address a significant gap in the property and development education marketplace and create graduates who will learn from—rather than repeat—the mistakes of yesteryear.
“In broad terms, the property sector represents almost 40 percent of Australia’s wealth, which makes efficient performance in the sector crucial to the economic, social and financial wellbeing of our country,” Professor Hefferan said.
“Increasingly, property is being treated as a financial asset, so we believe it is important to contribute to the development of a cohort of appropriately trained property professionals, to ensure the ongoing health of the industry.”
The new degree, which includes study of sustainability, environmental law and specialist valuation, will allow students to conduct research in what is effectively a 3,000 sq km classroom.
“Being such a high growth region, the Sunshine Coast provides a living laboratory for teaching, learning and research within the property industry, and encourages particular attention to sustainable practices and regional growth,” Professor Hefferan said.
“The introduction of the new degree is part of the process of establishing USC as a regional centre of excellence in property research and education, one that produces industry-ready, commercially aware graduates.”
Professor Hefferan said the University intends to expand its property professional development and postgraduate offerings in coming years, to bring further benefit to the region’s property professionals.
“The most significant advance, however, will be in the area of postgraduate education, with an integrated series of postgraduate certificate, diploma and masters programs offered in teaching blocks designed to suit the needs of busy professionals,” he said.
The Bachelor of Property Economics and Development will be offered from Semester 1, 2010, and replaces the Bachelor of Business (Property and Asset Management).
– Nathan Woulfe