Curtin University is aiming to inspire the next generation of Indigenous engineers and scientists with the launch of a new Indigenous Pre-Science and Engineering Enabling Course.
Run through Curtin’s Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS) in collaboration with the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the one-year course will open to students for Semester One, 2019.
CAS director Professor Marion Kickett said there was already significant interest in the new enabling program with applications recently opening.
“The Indigenous Pre-Science and Engineering Enabling Course is designed to provide an alternative pathway for Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander students into an undergraduate degree within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Curtin,” Professor Kickett said.
“Eligible students will be able to develop their knowledge and practices in science and engineering, laying the foundation for the start of their journey towards a career in the science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) fields.”
Curtin University deputy vice-chancellor Academic Professor Jill Downie said it was important to provide alternative pathways to higher education and access to STEM fields of study for Indigenous Australians.
“STEM is an important field for future innovations and this new course has been developed to offer Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander students an introduction to science and engineering in the hope of becoming tomorrow’s leaders in STEM,” Professor Downie said.
“Curtin has produced many leading scientists and engineers and this program will make it possible for more young Indigenous Australians to follow in their footsteps.”
The Indigenous Pre-Science and Engineering Enabling Course is available to people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent and offers alternative pathways into the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
As well as providing an introduction to the concepts of mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry and foundational scientific knowledge, the course also provides training in academic writing, communication skills and academic integrity.
Workshops outlining more information about the new course will be available in person at Curtin’s Centre for Aboriginal Studies, on February 5, 2019.
For further information or to apply, visit http://karda.curtin.edu.au/
