Graduate Diploma of Ornithology

What is this course about?

CSU's Ornithology program caters for both professional and amateur ornithologists who wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge whilst attaining a recognised tertiary qualification.

About the course

These two articulated courses are the only specialised postgraduate courses in Australia in the field of ornithology. The courses combine theory and practice with an emphasis on Australian birds.

The aims of these courses are to:

• provide detailed and current knowledge of bird ecology, including foraging and breeding, social organisation, bird movement and birds as 'environmental indicators'
• provide an overview of the origin, evolution and systematics of birds focusing on recent developments in this dynamic field
• critically investigate current approaches to bird conservation, including reintroduction programs
• provide an understanding of the principles of captive avian management, including husbandry, nutrition, breeding requirements, health and disease and record keeping
• provide a comprehensive review of two selected bird groups, including evolution, taxonomy, biology and ecology and conservation status
• provide an integrated framework for assessing and implementing appropriate management and conservation strategies and technologies
• further enhance the problem solving/thinking/research skills of graduates to enhance their leadership potential
• provide the opportunity for individuals to carry out major reviews or small projects in areas of specific interest to them or their organisation

Residential school

Some subjects in this course have a compulsory residential school where you are required to travel to Albury-Wodonga Campus for a few days of intensive study during the session. This provides you with the opportunity to meet other students, your lecturers and learn from real life experiences through guest lectures, hands-on study or field trips.

Academic expectations

For each 8 point subject at CSU, students should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, assignments or examinations). The student workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

Students will be assessed on the basis of completed assignments, examinations, workplace learning, or other methods as outlined in specific subject outlines.

Where applicable, students are responsible for travel and accommodation costs involved in workplace learning experiences, or attending residential schools (distance education students).

Expectations relating to academic, workplace learning, time and cost requirements for specific subjects are provided in the subject abstracts and in course materials.