Listed below are SHORT COURSES
and seminars offered by environmental organisations and
independent institutions, providing knowledge and practical
skills in sustainable fields, environmental protection and
conservation.
Click here to navigate your way through
the environment departments of Melbourne's UNIVERSITIES where you
can read course descriptions for different environmental
subjects.
SHORT
COURSES &
SEMINARS
Coastal Environment Greypath Lyceum
(Online)
Environmnetal Consultancy and
Training Green Steps Program
Environmental Studies Green Images
(Distance Learning)
Permaculture (PDC) Southern Cross Permaculture Institute
Permaculture Design Garden of
Eden
Pitjantjatjara Language
Course Ngapartji
Ngapartji
Sustainable
Gardening Green Gardeners
Wildlife Care & Habitat Greypath Lyceum (Online)
Wildlife Husbandry and Rehabilitation Wildlife
Vic & VU
Wildlife Rescue Training Wildlife
Victoria
Wildlife Seminar Series ARI
Institute
Greypath
Lyceum (Online)
Coastal Environment
when: any time
duration: 8 weeks
where: online
cost: free/$30 for interactive
course
Description:
The free Coastal Environment Course is a course for anyone who
wants to learn more about the complexity of fragile coastal
habitats, with their specialised plants, animals, and
micro-organisms. The beauty, diversity and vital ecology of the
coast is under threat. The course points to ways that we can
participate in enjoying and protecting coastal biodiversity,
with many links to resources and organisations dedicated to
practical conservation. The authors of this course, Noel
Wauchope and Emma MacKenzie have between them degrees in
Education and in Environmental Science. Noel continues to teach
Environmental Studies, while Emma pursues research in her
Master's degree in Hydrology.
Topics: your coastal environment, cycles in
ecology, food chains and food webs,habitats, regional
influences and action for conservation, global influences and
conservation action.
Contact: Email Greypath at
convener@greypath.com or have a look at their courses on the
website (link above).
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Green Steps Program (Student
Training and Placement Program)
Environmental
Consultancy and Training
when:
see web for application details
cost: free for eligible tertiary
students
Description: The Monash Environment Institute’s
Green Steps Program offers a unique combination of training,
work experience and business engagement. The program is run in
two distinct phases, namely training and project work, and
industry placements. The initial training phase of the program
provides university students with the knowledge and skills
required of environmental change agents. The industry placement
phase provides an opportunity for program participants to
further hone their environmental change management skills,
whilst developing innovative new approaches to a range of
workplace environmental issues. Program participants are
typically paid a small stipend during the placement period. In
recognition of the significant support for the program provided
by the Australian Greenhouse Office, in selecting placement
host organisations, preference is given to members of the
‘Greenhouse Challenge Program’. Students are
supported during the Industry Placement phase with one-on-one
mentoring sessions, conducted by experienced MEI trainers.
Additionally, a series of workshops focused on increasing
participants’ personal effectiveness and providing basic
professional support are run during the placement
period.
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Green Images (Distance Learning)
Environmental Studies
when:
any time
duration: at your own pace
where: online or via mail
cost: regular fee $270 including all course materials,
check web for other options
Description: A
new distance education course, provided via compact disk.
and/or printed text. This is an up-to date study including
basic principles in ecology, environmental issues in Australia
and New Zealand, and global concerns. There is a particular
focus on national problems of salinity and coastal degradation,
and also on the global issue of climate change. The course pays
special attention to evaluating sources of information, and
encouraging students in critical thinking about current
debates. This course is suitable for all adult learners. It may
have special value for those interested in continuing studies,
as the course can form a bridge to tertiary education. The
course requires students to complete 10 self-assessment
exercises and to submit 3 substantial assignments for
correction, by email or by post. A certificate is received, on
satisfactory completion of the required assignments.
Topics: Basic
concepts: Ecology - the biological cycle - water - soil - air -
food webs Australia and New Zealand: Australia 's land and
water - New Zealand's land and water - coastal issues -
biodiversity - salinity. The global environment -
points of view: Human impact - environmental awareness -
climate change - the future.
Contact: Email
greenimages@alphalink.com.au or mail Green Images at P.O. Box
2080 Caulfield Junction Vic Australia 3161.
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Ngapartji
Ngapartji
Pitjantjatjara Language
Course
when:
any time
duration: at your own
pace
where: online or in Alice
Springs
cost: regular fee $200/$170
concession
Background:
Pitjantjatjara is a central desert language spoken by around
2,500 people across the north-western parts of South Australia
and adjacent areas of W.A and N.T. Before colonisation of
Australia it is estimated that there were more than 500
dialects spoken by the Indigenous population. These dialects
made up around 250 distinct languages. Since colonisation at
least 55 of these languages have been lost. The maintenance of
languages in everyday use depends on their being passed on to
new generations of speakers. The 2001 State of the Environment
Report concluded that if indigenous languages continue to
decline in speakers at the current rate that by 2050 there will
no longer be any indigenous languages spoken in Australia.
Description: BighART welcomes Melbourne
audiences to enrol in the course and to take up the opportunity
to participate in the development of the course as we build it.
Enrolments never close, and as its online you can take it
whenever and wherever you like totally at your own pace. We'll
keep track of which lessons you have seen and completed and let
you know when new content goes up since your last visit to the
site. If you want to take the course, but can't make it to one
of the shows in Melbourne (Oct 06), that's an option
too. Young Pitjantjatjara speakers
from Alice Springs and region become YOUR Pitjantjatjara
language tutors through the content that they are making for
this site. As well as the films, radio, flash animation and
photography based language lessons that they are involved in
making we are exploring mobile phone and podcasting delivery of
content (stay tuned!) Each lesson will be accompanied by a
vocabulary sheet and the lesson content will be supplemented by
a range of other Pitjantjatjara archival material; songs from
the Pitjantjatjara choir, films from the early days of
Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Media (PY Media) and loads more.
After completing the 26 part course you’ll have had a
basic introduction to the language and a selection of terms,
vocabulary and key concepts. Which, when you attend the show in
Melbourne International Arts Festival season in October this
year, will allow you to engage with Trevor Jamieson’s
family story in a much deeper and richer way.
Contact: Project Home Site www.ngapartji.org
--------------Launguage Site
ninti.ngapartji.org/
Southern Cross
Permaculture Institute
Permaculture Design
Certificate
when:
see web for
course dates (next one in Dec 2006)
where: SCPI Institute Leongatha South
duration: 2 weeks with 1 free
weekend
cost: $850 (concession and part time work exchange
available)
Description: On
completion of this course you will be able to design your
property and others, act as a permaculture consultant and
teacher, and use the name permaculture in your business. You
will receive a certificate issued by the Permaculture Institute
and be able to work towards their Diploma of Permaculture.
Nationally accredited Certificates I - IV and the Diploma of
Permaculture have recently been approved and a program of
implementation will occur over the next two years to deliver
the training. The PDC will provide credit towards completion of
these certificate courses. We are registered teachers under
both the PDC & APT systems.
Topics:
principles and ethics; rural and suburban design methods;
earthworks; soil improvement strategies; aquaculture systems;
weed and pest management; organic gardening techniques; orchard
systems, trees & woodlots; energy efficient housing design;
ecofriendly building; appropriate alternative technology;
poultry systems; bush foods; microclimates; integrating animals
into design; seed saving; establishing community gardens;
design tasks and more . . .
Contact:
Southern Cross Institute of Permaculture is located at 7710
Bass Hwy Leongatha South. Ph: 5664 3310 Email:
scpi@tpg.com.au
Introduction to
Permaculture
when: see web for course dates
where: SPCI Institute Leongatha South
duration: one weekend
cost: around $200 (cncesion
avaialable)
Description:
This course is a basic introduction to the principles and
practices of permaculture design. It will give an overview of
how to start designing a permaculture system. It will also give
you a 10% discount towards future design courses. Price
includes lunches, morning tea and caravan
accommodation.
Contact:
Southern Cross Institute of Permaculture is located at 7710
Bass Hwy Leongatha South. Ph: 5664 3310 Email:
scpi@tpg.com.au
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Garden of Eden
Permaculture Design
Course
when:
see web for course
dates
where: South Melbourne
duration: 12 weeks
cost: $890 / $800
concession
Description:
The Garden of Eden is very excited to offer our first
Permaculture Design Course based here at the Albert Park
Railway Station. This diverse and stimulating course will look
at the role of Permaculture in our lives as a tool for
designing sustainable, creative and productive communities that
thrive within the natural limits of our ecosystems and maintain
the earth's resources. Whether you are an urban or rural
dweller, this course will provide you with many ideas and tools
to re-define the way you live. The majority of the course will
be based in Melbourne and includes two tour days to Hepburn and
Heathcote to explore different permaculture systems. Delicious
organic vegetarian food will be provided over the duration of
the course for morning and afternoon teas, lunches and dinners.
If you have any specific dietary requirements, please let us
know when you register with your deposit.
Topics:
permaculture principles, soil ecology, indigenous and
non-indigenous ecosystems, growing food species, forestry,
animal husbandry, organic weed control, sustainable house and
energy efficient design, community gardening and community
supported agriculture and farmers markets.
Contact: Garden
of Eden to register. Ph: 9696
8013 or email mail@gardenofedenproject.net.au
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Green Gardeners
Sustainable
Gardening
when: see web for course dates
where: Venues around Melbourne and rural
locations
duration: six hours delivered over 2
evenings
cost: free
Description:
The Green Gardeners accredited training program offers
professional gardeners and horticulturalists the opportunity to
enhance their skills and knowledge about waterwise and
environmentally sustainable gardening practices. This free TAFE
accredited training course places accredited Green Gardeners in
a better position to advise and influence clients about
sustainable gardening plants, products and practices. The
program recognises the important role landscapers and
horticulturalists can play in educating the community about
sustainable gardening practices. All program partners encourage
the public to seek the services of an accredited Green
Gardener. The Green Gardeners training program has been
developed in consultation with industry to ensure relevance and
is delivered by a team of qualified presenters who all have
extensive industry experience and practical examples. Course
notes are provided to participants although the program
benefits greatly from participant discussion and the sharing of
experiences. Since the Green Gardeners program commenced in
2003 over 1000 professional gardeners and horticulturalists
have become accredited Green Gardeners.
Contact: Elaine Shallue Ph: 9850 8165 or
email: greengardeners@sgaonline.org.au
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Greypath
Lyceum (Online)
Wildlife Care & Habitat
when: any time
duration: at your own pace
where: online
cost: free
Description:
This is a basic introduction to wildlife care matters for
gardeners, landholders, animal lovers and 'those on the road'
everywhere. The course is for those who at times come across
injured wildlife and want to help get it 'effectively' to care
, and for those who might seek to be part of a personal or
community habitat development.
Topics:
Introduction and classification, immediate aid, legal and
rescue, habitat, wildlife organisations, what next:
volunteering, advanced programs, supporting programs, possible
habitat action.
Contact: Email
Greypath at convener@greypath.com or have a look at their
courses on the website (link above).
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Wildlife Victoria & VU
The Husbandry and Rehabilitation of
Wildlife
Description:
Victoria University and Wildlife Victoria are proud to
introduce this course for any person who is interested in
becoming a wildlife carer or would like to expand their
knowledge in the care and rehabilitation of native Australian
wildlife.The course is both broad and detailed to meet the
needs of any person who is new to wildlife caring or those who
just wish to expand their knowledge. Some of the topics that
are included in the course are:
Topics: Law and
animal welfare; Basic animal biology; Wildlife husbandry;
Wildlife rehabilitation ; Animal first aid; Animal rescue and
release
Contact: For
enrolment enquiries contact Debbie on (03) 9216 8139.
Course coordinator is Greg Gordon:
Greg.Gordon@vu.edu.au
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Wildlife Victoria
Wildlife
Rescue and Rehabilitation
when: see web for course dates
where: various locations in Victoria
duration: 1-several
days
cost: vrious,
discounts for members
Widllife Victoria supports
its members by offering training at a reduced rate. We usually
try to offer free training for members and in most cases
membership can be taken out at the beginning of the training
day. Sometimes training cannot be offered free, however
Wildlife Victoria tries to keep the costs to a minimum.
Wildlife Victoria also informs members of quality training days
being run by professional trainers. Wildlife Victoria
recommends these trainers as excellent and can include snake
handling to bird rehabilitation. See calendar for training days
scheduled this year. Proposed Training Events for 2006
include:
*seals
*kangaroos
*bats
*echidnas
* koalas
* Frogs
* Birds: When to release and how to know when they are ready to
release
* Sea Bird Rescue
* Rescue and Transport: Manfred and Donna Zabinskas
* Possums
* Animal First Aid: Deahnn Johnson
* Equipment Workshop: Rescue, housing,
rehabilitation
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Arthur Rylah Institute
Wildlife Seminar
Series
when: every
fortnight or so between 1-2pm (check schedule on website)
duration: one hour
where: Heidelberg
cost:
free
Description:
ARI seminars are held at ARI every fortnight or so between 1 pm
and 2 pm in our conference room. It is hoped that the series
will promote discussion between staff and others working and
studying in a wide range of areas. All interested people are
welcome to attend and visitors are asked to fill in the book at
the reception desk on arrival. Larger groups should notify
reception in advance on 9450 8600. Light refreshments are
available after each session.
Past
Topics:
Contact:
Enquiries about these seminars and to join the seminar email
list please email research.ari@dse.vic.gov.au or call Vivienne
Turner on 03 9450 8662. We hope to see you there!
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TERTIARY COURSES
Deakin |
LaTrobe | Monash | RMIT | Swinburne
| Melbourne | Ballarat | VU
Eco-shout does not endorse or
recommend any particular course offered by Melbourne's
universities. From experience, several of us here have been
highly disappointed with the content of subjects taught under
the title "environmental". On the other hand, there are many
university subjects that provide valuable and practical
information for those who wish to work in the
environment.
Science based
courses (biology, zoology, geography, earth sciences) provide
the detailed knowledge and investigative skills required for
work in research fields. Environmental Studies
provides a broad base of knowledge covering science, management
and politics. Technical courses (land
management, horticulture, tree surgery) provide practical
skills that can be applied in the field.
Sociological courses provide social analysis
and a pragmatic approach to managing environmental problems.
Advocacy and Community Development courses
provide strategic planning and problem solving skills to assist
in environmental advocacy and community liaison.
Look for what subjects are
offered in each course and read their descriptions. For courses
that place an emphasis on protection and conservation, look for
words like "ecology" "conservation biology" and "sustainable"
rather than "resource" and "management".
You will hear very little about
Indigenous issues or the Indigenous approach to relating to
land in most environment courses at Melbourne's universities.
For this reason, Indigenous programs are listed separately
below, although they do not necessarily address the
relationship of people with the land either.
Deakin
University
School of Ecology and the Environment
Conservation Ecology
Earth Sciences
Environmental Management
Fisheries Management and Aquaculture
Marine Biology
Marine and Freshwater Science
La
Trobe University
Ngarn-gi
Bagora Indigenous Centre
School of Arts & Environment
Nature Tourism
Outdoor Education
Monash
University
Centre for Indigenous
Studies
School of Geography
& Environmental Science
Environmental Science
Environment and Sustainability
Corporate Environmental Sustainability and Management
(MCESM)
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
International Development and Environmental Analysis
(MIDEA)
RMIT
University
School
of Social Science and Planning
Social Science
(Environment)
School of Applied
Science
Environmental Science
Scientific Photography
School of Civil
and Chemical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Swinburne University of
Technology
School of
Engineering
Renewable energy studies
School of
Arts, Hospitality and Sciences
Environmental Management
Science and Sustainability
Horticulture
Viticulture
University of
Melbourne, The
Indigenous Studies Program
School of Anthropology, Geography & Environmental
Studies
Geography
Anthropology
Environmental Studies
Australian Indigenous Studies
Development Studies
Office for Environmental Programs
lists courses available in other faculties with subjects that
can be applied to the environment and sustainable development
(there is also many subjects below that approach the
environment from a "resource" perspective rather than a
"biocentric" perspective (ie that the earth has value beyond
human use)
ARCHITECTURE
Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Planning and Design
Urban Planning
ARTS
Biology & Botany
Chemistry
Development Studies
Earth Sciences
Environmental Studies
Geography
Planning & Design
Specialist Programs in Environmental Studies
COMMERCE
Economics & Environmental Studies
EDUCATION
Studies of Society & Environment
ENGINEERING
Engineering (Environmental)
Geomatic Engineering
HEALTH SCIENCE
Environmental Psychology
LAND AND FOOD
Forest Management (highly
unendorsed by Eco-shout, ask us
why)
Horticulture
Forest Science
Resource Management
LAW
Environmental Law (one subject)
SCIENCE
Chemistry
Conservation and Australian Wildlife
Earth Sciences
Ecology
Environmental Science
Geography & Environmental Studies
Marine Biology
Microbiology
Plant Sciences
VETERINARY
Animal Science
Veterinary Science
University of
Ballarat
School
of Science & Engineering
Environmental
Management
Victoria University
School of Science Engineering and
Technology
Science (Ecology and Sustainability)
Department of Science and Biotechnology (TAFE)
Conservation and Land Management
Science for Further Study
Veterinary Studies
Faculty of Arts
Advocacy and Mediation
Community Development
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