Future mining engineers can now commence their study in Central Queensland.

Central Queensland University (CQU) and The University of Queensland (UQ) have joined forces to offer students more flexibility in completing a degree in mining engineering.

From 2007, students enrolling in the innovative Bachelor of Engineering (Mining Engineering) partnership program will be able to do the first 2 years at CQU before transferring to UQ for the final 2 years.

In a move designed to keep students in regional areas close to their families and work opportunities, CQU will offer the initial 2 years on campus at Rockhampton, Mackay and Gladstone or by distance education.

Students successfully completing the 2 years at CQU will then be eligible for full credit transfer to enter the third year of the UQ mining engineering degree with a major in either mining or metallurgy.

“Collaborative relationships such as these are the way of the future,” said Professor Elizabeth Taylor, Executive Dean of Sciences, Engineering and Health at CQU (pictured).

“I welcome this significant step forward in our academic relationship with UQ and look forward to working with them to meet the demands of industry for mining engineers,” Professor Taylor said.

“This is perfect for young people who want qualifications in mining while living in Central Queensland for the first couple of years of uni,” said Professor Stephen Walker, UQ’s Executive Dean of Engineering, Physical Sciences & Architecture.

“It will help them meet the costs of studying, pay them to become work-ready, and give them a degree that will impress employers in Central Queensland, elsewhere in Australia, and throughout the world’s mining and resources hotspots.

“The partnership is also part of a strategy to tackle growing demand for expert mining engineers and to future-proof the economies of Central Queensland, Queensland and Australia\".

BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), a corporate partner with both CQU and UQ, has announced 5 scholarships, commencing in 2007, under the new partnership program. The scholarships, each worth $8,500 annually, will provide financial assistance to 5 students while completing the first 2 years of study for Bachelor of Engineering (Mining) at CQU and the final 2 years at UQ.

The CQU/UQ partnership program of Bachelor of Engineering (Mining) offers students the chance of a well-paid career, great opportunities and industry credentials.

Scholarship applications close on Friday, October 13.

For more information: http://careers.bmacoal.com .

For details: Fiona Kennedy (UQ) 3365 1088 / 0413 380 012 or Jo Rees (CQU) 4970 7329.