Occupational Health and Safety

The Occupational Health and Safety program at Curtin University is designed to equip students with the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to promote safe and healthy working environments across various industries. This program emphasizes the importance of understanding workplace hazards, risk management strategies, and legislative frameworks to ensure the well-being of employees and other stakeholders. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and real-world applications, students will learn about occupational health principles, safety management systems, and incident prevention techniques. The curriculum covers essential topics such as hazard identification, ergonomic assessments, environmental safety, incident investigation, and emergency response planning. Students will have opportunities to engage in hands-on experiences, case studies, and work placements that facilitate the development of critical problem-solving skills relevant to occupational health and safety roles. The program also explores the legal responsibilities of organizations and individuals, fostering a strong understanding of compliance requirements and ethical practices. Graduates of the Occupational Health and Safety program at Curtin University will be prepared for careers in diverse sectors including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, government agencies, and consultancy firms. They will be capable of developing safety policies, conducting risk assessments, and leading safety initiatives within organizations. The program promotes a proactive approach to workplace health and safety, emphasizing continuous improvement and preventative measures to reduce occupational injuries and illnesses. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty members who are recognized leaders in the field, students will gain valuable insights into current industry standards and innovative safety solutions. Upon completion, graduates will be well-positioned to take on roles such as health and safety officers, safety consultants, compliance managers, and other leadership positions focused on fostering safe working environments. Curtin University’s Occupational Health and Safety program aims to contribute to safer workplaces by preparing competent professionals committed to the health and safety of workers and communities alike.

The course is recognised by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) (UK). Upon graduating, graduates are eligible to apply for IOSH membership and certificate with the Safety Institute of Australia.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Occupational Health and Safety at Curtin University include completing a total of 360 credit points over the duration of the degree. Students are expected to undertake core courses that provide foundational knowledge in occupational health, safety management, risk assessment, and hazardous materials. The program also emphasizes practical skills through participating in industry placements or projects, which are integral parts of the curriculum. Admission generally requires completion of Year 12 or equivalent with specific prerequisites in mathematics and science subjects, such as chemistry or physics. International students must meet English language proficiency requirements, typically demonstrated through IELTS or equivalent scores. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop competencies in legal frameworks governing workplace safety, accident investigation, and emergency response planning. The curriculum also incorporates courses related to ergonomics, occupational health legislation, and environmental health, aligning with industry standards and practices. To graduate, students must achieve the required credit points and pass all prescribed courses, including potential capstone projects or assessments. Industry engagement is facilitated through guest lectures, internships, and collaborative projects with local organizations, enhancing employability post-graduation. Continuing professional development may be supported by associations such as Safe Work Australia, with opportunities for networking and certifications. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in safety consultancy, risk management, or workplace health programs across various industries.

The Occupational Health and Safety program at Curtin University offers a range of financing options designed to support students throughout their studies. Domestic students can access various funding opportunities, including government subsidies and student loans through the Australian Government's Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) scheme, which significantly reduces the tuition fee burden. Additionally, Curtin University provides its own scholarships and bursaries targeted at students pursuing health and safety disciplines, recognizing academic excellence or financial need. International students are required to pay full tuition fees, which vary depending on the specific course and duration, and they can explore external scholarships, sponsorships, or financial aid options available from their home countries or international organizations.

Curtin University also participates in the Australian Government's Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), allowing eligible students to defer their tuition fees and repay them through the tax system once employed. Certain students may qualify for the Austudy or Youth Allowance benefits to assist with living expenses during their course duration. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek part-time employment opportunities, either on or off campus, to supplement their income and assist with financing their studies. Curtin's flexible study options, including part-time or online study arrangements, can also help students balance work and study commitments, making it easier to manage finances effectively.

For students enrolled in research degrees or specialized training components of the programme, additional funding sources might include grants from research councils, industry partnerships, or external foundations dedicated to promoting occupational health and safety research. The university's financial services department provides comprehensive guidance on available funding options, application processes, and eligibility requirements to ensure students are well-informed about how to finance their studies effectively. Overall, Curtin University aims to make Occupational Health and Safety programmes accessible through a broad spectrum of financial support mechanisms tailored to both domestic and international students.

The Occupational Health and Safety program at Curtin University provides students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to promote safe and healthy workplaces across various industries. This program is designed to equip graduates with a solid understanding of the legislative framework, risk management strategies, and safety protocols essential for preventing workplace injuries and illnesses. Students delve into topics such as hazard identification, accident investigation, emergency response, and safety leadership, ensuring they are prepared to implement effective health and safety measures in real-world settings.

The curriculum integrates theoretical understanding with hands-on learning experiences, including case studies, industry placements, and specialized workshops. This approach enables students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Curtin’s program also emphasizes the importance of communication, ethics, and cultural considerations in occupational health and safety practices, preparing students to work effectively within diverse teams and organizational cultures.

Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, government agencies, and consulting firms. They may assume roles such as health and safety officers, environmental health and safety consultants, compliance officers, or safety managers. The program aligns with national and international health and safety standards, ensuring that students are versed in current regulations and industry best practices.

Curtin University supports students through modern facilities, experienced faculty with industry backgrounds, and strong links with industry partners, providing opportunities for networking and professional development. The program also offers pathways for further study, including postgraduate research or specialized certifications in occupational health and safety. With a focus on creating safer workplaces, the course fosters a proactive approach to risk management and promotes a culture of safety that benefits organizations and communities alike.