You can't talk about the future of the Rockhampton region without talking about three major topics: the resources boom; the health and wellbeing of our communities; and dynamics that contribute to sustainable and innovative business development.

Central Queensland University, a leading partner across the region with private business and government, announced earlier this year three priority areas and partnerships as part of CQU's contribution to supporting the sustainable growth and prosperity of its home region, ensuring that its research capacity and programs are aligned with the needs of the community.

The three priorities are Resourcing Queensland, Healthy Communities and Dynamic Business Environments.

Part of the University's vision is enhancing specialised industry-specific knowledge in Central Queensland.

In 2008, CQU will deliver programs specific to those priority areas including its Associate Degrees of Mine Technology and Mine Operations Management, the Bachelor of Human Movement Science (Industry Co-op), the Bachelor of Health Promotion and the Bachelor of Occupational Health & Safety as well as its Bachelor of Property and numerous Business degrees.

CQU is responding, for example, to the mining sector's need for engineers by working with experts in the field refining and specialising the curriculum and criteria for students.

CQU is also providing a jolt of electricity to the resources boom as a major partner in Australia's first university program specifically for power generation professionals.

Developed in partnership with Tarong Energy Corporation, CS Energy and Stanwell Corporation, the world-class, post-graduate program will be offered concurrently through Central Queensland University with the University of Queensland, and Queensland University of Technology.

Students can enrol in a Masters Program, Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate depending on their professional experience and academic qualifications.

CQU also has close links with Mining Education Australia (MEA), Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), Coalfields Engineering Skills Centre at Moranbah High School and the Mining Industry Skills Centre (MISC) to provide students with the information and inspiration to make informed decisions about their career options and education paths.

Central Queensland University is also creating partnerships with TAFE and other education providers to make the most of educational outcomes for students and industry needs. New programs have been created in collaboration with Curtin University, West Australian School of Mines (WASM), New South Wales University and the University of Southern Queensland. Internationally, these partnerships extend to the Shandong University of Science and Technology in the People's Republic of China.

Find out more about our resource-friendly programs during Open Day.