Delivery Method

The courses are delivered via distance, with a combination of online materials and support along with face to face workshops. 

The online materials are made available through an online learning site (called e-Learning). Students will gain access to this site and an introduction on how to use it at the first workshop they attend. There is also a one-day workshop for each subject at the beginning of each session. The University of Wollongong runs two sessions a year: Autumn session (session 1) runs from February to June, and Spring session (session 2) runs from July to November. 

The biggest advantage of this type of delivery is that it enables you to study at a time that best suits you. The online nature of these courses also makes them available for delivery throughout Australia and worldwide.

These courses are only offered on a part-time basis, making it perfect for professionals looking to increase or enhance their skills whilst working full-time. The courses are designed for students to study 2 subjects per session, but some students choose to do less or more.

Generally, students are already employed in the rail industry, however these courses are also available to engineers who are working outside of the rail industry or are unemployed. Please don't hesitate to apply if you are not employed in the rail industry as a support and mentor program is available, ensuring you will receive first-hand exposure to the industry.

Exams

Final exams can be taken remote from the Wollongong campus, reducing the stress and inconvenience of travel around exam time. You will need to find someone to supervise you (an invigilator) whilst you complete the exam, to ensure exam conditions are maintained. Please contact your lecturer for more information about exams specific to your subjects.

Online Learning

The e-Learning sites will provide you with extensive learning materials to successfully complete your subjects. An online discussion board is also available on the e-Learning site, which provides you with an opportunity to interact and communicate with your peers and lecturer in an open forum. Interaction through the discussion board is highly encouraged as it can be an excellent source of information and interaction. Lecturers are also regularly available for one on one consultations, either by phone or e-mail. They are always there to help you if you are having difficulties or just want to discuss something.

Workshops

At the beginning of each subject there will be a one-day workshop. This workshop is conducted at the University of Wollongong campus in Wollongong (see here for maps). This workshop provides you with a subject overview, an understanding of key concepts, and an e-Learning demonstration. They also provide you with the opportunity to meet and network with industry experts and peers. Teams are often formed at the workshop which gives you the opportunity to meet your team members in person. Past and current students have found the workshops an invaluable experience. 

The workshops are on consecutive days to accommodate those that are studying 2 subjects per session. This makes travel arrangements easier and reduces costs, whilst also minimising time away from work and other commitments. A networking dinner is usually held after the first day. This provides you with an opportunity to meet and socialise with industry experts and peers in a less formal setting. 

Workshop Preparation

If you are unfamiliar with rolling stock and the rail industry, it may be beneficial to do some background reading prior to the workshop. This will help you to familiarise yourself with some rolling stock terms and diagrams, as well as provide a basic understanding of rolling stock. Please refer back to this website as some preparation materials will be uploaded in the weeks prior to the workshops.