Sustainability

This course introduces students with a unique chance to subscribe to an emerging struggle that we all face - how to produce our own lives, livelihoods, communities, spaces and environments sustainable. To meet this challenge, society will demand graduates with an awareness and understanding of fields from across ecological, social and economic domains. The ecological domain covers the atmosphere, air and soil and also the biota that inhabit them, while the economic domain addresses the financial and managerial facets of business and resource decisions. The social domain recognises that people are the cause of and treatment for sustainability issues.Students will get theoretical and practical guidance in a group of skills which are crucial for solving issues: systems thinking, critical thinking, along with decision-making, and will build personal traits which will allow them to function in teams to build fresh ideas, and fresh solutions. Studies will include a focus on field-based exercises along with workplace learning.

The Bachelor of Sustainability at Edith Cowan University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the key principles and practices necessary to address complex environmental, social, and economic challenges facing our world today. This innovative program is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development and responsible resource management across various sectors. Throughout the course, students will explore topics such as environmental science, social justice, economic sustainability, policy development, and ethical decision-making. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to integrate scientific principles with policy analysis and community engagement to develop practical solutions to real-world problems.

Students will engage in a range of learning experiences, including lectures, tutorials, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, all aimed at fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They will have opportunities to work with community organizations, government agencies, and industry partners, gaining valuable hands-on experience in sustainability initiatives. The program also emphasizes the importance of innovative thinking and ethical responsibility, preparing graduates to become effective leaders in sustainability management, environmental consultancy, urban planning, and policy development.

In addition to core courses, students can choose electives tailored to their specific interests within sustainability, such as renewable energy, sustainable urban development, conservation, and environmental law. The Bachelor of Sustainability also offers pathways for further study or professional development, supporting graduates in making meaningful contributions to creating a more sustainable future. By completing this program, graduates will be equipped with the academic knowledge, practical skills, and ethical perspectives necessary to influence and implement sustainable practices in diverse settings, making a positive impact on society and the planet.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Sustainability at Edith Cowan University include completion of a total of 480 Australian and New Zealand Credit Points (ANZCP), typically completed over three years of full-time study. Prospective students must hold a recognized high school qualification equivalent to the Australian Year 12, with competitive Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATARs) or equivalent international qualifications. The curriculum encompasses core courses in environmental management, sustainable development, ecological systems, and social sustainability, complemented by electives that allow specialization in areas such as climate change, renewable energy, or sustainable urban planning. Students are expected to complete both theoretical coursework and practical components, including industry placements, projects, and case studies, which foster real-world applications of sustainability principles. Entry requirements may also include a personal statement demonstrating an interest in sustainability issues and relevant extracurricular experience. International students must meet English language proficiency standards, such as an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0. The program aims to develop students' interdisciplinary understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills necessary for leadership roles in sustainability. To graduate, students must achieve a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.0 on a 7.0 scale. The program also encourages engagement in research activities, group work, and community projects to deepen understanding and promote practical skills in sustainable practices. Completion requirements may also include participation in seminars, workshops, and industry conferences, which are integral to professional development in the field. Students should consult the official ECU website or academic advisors for specific prerequisites and detailed program structures, as requirements may be updated periodically.

The financing options for the Sustainability program at Edith Cowan University are designed to provide students with flexible and accessible pathways to support their education. Domestic students may be eligible for a variety of financial assistance programs, including government-supported loans such as HECS-HELP, which allows eligible students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning above the repayment threshold. Additionally, Australian citizens and permanent residents can access scholarships specifically targeted at sustainability and environmental studies, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, community involvement, or financial need and are highly competitive.

International students are required to pay full tuition fees, which can vary depending on the number of units enrolled and any additional costs such as mandatory materials or fieldwork expenses. They often finance their studies through personal savings, family support, or private loans, as government assistance schemes are generally not available to international students. Edith Cowan University also offers payment plans that can help students manage their tuition fees over a period, easing the financial strain.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities such as scholarships from environmental organizations, grants, or sponsorships from corporate partners invested in sustainability initiatives. Some students supplement their income through part-time work, with on-campus employment opportunities or roles in related industries providing additional financial support. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides guidance and resources to help students navigate their financing options, ensuring they are aware of all available support systems.

Overall, the financial landscape for students enrolled in the Sustainability program is structured to accommodate a diverse student body, promoting access to quality education regardless of financial background. The university’s commitment to affordability and support services aims to minimize barriers and foster a vibrant learning community focused on sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

The Bachelor of Sustainability at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex environmental, social, and economic challenges associated with sustainability. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, combining theoretical frameworks with practical applications to prepare graduates for diverse careers in sustainability-related sectors. Students explore key topics such as environmental management, sustainable development, renewable energy, resource conservation, urban sustainability, environmental policy, and corporate social responsibility. The curriculum incorporates both classroom-based instruction and real-world projects, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.

Throughout the course, students engage with industry-standard tools and methodologies to assess sustainability initiatives, develop innovative solutions, and implement sustainable practices within organizations and communities. The program also offers opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, providing valuable hands-on experience. By focusing on contemporary issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social equity, the program prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to creating sustainable futures across various sectors including government, private enterprise, non-profit organizations, and consulting. The university's research centers and specialist staff support students with expert knowledge and guidance on emerging trends and best practices in sustainability. Graduates of the Bachelor of Sustainability are well-positioned to influence policy development, drive sustainable innovation, and promote environmental and social responsibility in their future careers. The program aligns with global efforts to achieve sustainability goals, offering a relevant and impactful educational pathway for those committed to making a positive difference in the world.