CQU this week announced the availability of the first 2 years of its Professional Engineering degree on campus at Mackay from 2007.

It is expected that the engineering cohort on Mackay campus in 2007 will total 50 students made up of current students as well as 2007 commencing students.

Dr Fae Martin, CQU Engineering Co-ordinator Mackay, said that CQU is excited about this initiative as it recognises the importance of Mackay as an engineering hub. This development allows CQU to enhance its already strong links with Mackay and Central Queensland industry.

“The structure of the program provides the students with many different learning environments including on campus work at Mackay and Rockhampton as well as 2 paid 6-month industry placements,\" Dr Martin said.

CQU is committed to helping local communities and industry address the severe skills shortage for engineers.

By providing Mackay school leavers with the opportunity to study within their local community for 2 years it is expected that a high proportion of these students will return to the region after graduation, to practise as professional engineers.