Driven by the evolving needs of the global resources sector, The University of Queensland (UQ) is expanding its portfolio of postgraduate qualifications and professional development courses to ensure that the workforce is equipped with the skills it needs to tackle the world’s most complex challenges.
UQ has introduced three new programs through a strategic partnership with Thiess, a global mining services provider. The Graduate Certificate in Resource Development offers two fields. Mining Foundations is for graduates without formal mining engineering training, targeting those in, or aspiring to be in, mining roles with civil, mechanical, electrical, and mechatronic engineering backgrounds. Mining Operations is for graduates with foundation knowledge seeking career advancement. The Graduate Diploma combines both fields.
These programs help build and sustain the mining workforce, enabling organisations to develop talent internally and address human capital challenges.
‘At UQ, we’ve been training mining engineers for 75 years – and the nature of that training has evolved consistently over that period to meet the sector’s
ever-changing needs,’ says Professor Ross McAree, Head of UQ’s School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering. ‘Work-integrated learning stands as a fundamental pillar of our current approach, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical industry experience.’
Peter Rule, Thiess Operations Director – Australia East, adds: ‘It’s a powerful partnership bringing together our in-house learning and development centre, Thiess Institute, and our experienced Technical Services professionals, with UQ to shape and influence course content along with developing a flexible learning model to allow students to continue to work in the industry full time while advancing their formal mining qualifications. Thiess is committed to the growth and development of its people, with 15 full‑time employees currently enrolled in the new courses offered by UQ.’
Through this industry–academic partnership, UQ strengthens its position as a leader in mining education, preparing professionals for future challenges.
UQ also offers a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) with a major in Mining Engineering aligned to civil, mechanical and mechatronic engineering specialisations.
This holistic approach to mining education is also evident at UQ’s Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI), which offers a growing suite of professional development options.
SMI Director Professor Rick Valenta says the courses – designed and delivered by academics and experts – support people working in the sector to advance their careers.
‘A key focus for SMI is training the next generation of industry and community leaders through higher degrees by research and professional development courses,’ Valenta says.
‘We deliver the knowledge required for mining operations, alongside the practical skills needed to excel in the field.’
SMI delivers masterclasses, bespoke training for industry and communities impacted by mining, and public courses. Themes include:
- Social Responsibility in the Resources Sector
- Mine Site Environmental Management
- Health, Safety and Risk
- Geology, Mining and Metallurgy.
SMI’s technology transfer company, JKTech, also offers a range of training to address mining and mineral processing challenges.
