New degree to boost car industry

Thursday, 4 November 2004

The local automotive industry has received a major boost with the University of Adelaide officially launching its new Automotive Engineering degree today (Thursday).

The Bachelor of Automotive Engineering degree is the first of its type in South Australia, and will be offered from next year. It aims to give students the skills and qualities needed for a successful career in the automotive industry.

Coordinator of the degree and Senior Lecturer at the University of Adelaide Dr Colin Kestell says the local automotive industry and the State Government have both made substantial contributions to the new offering.

"We are very excited to be offering this degree, because it is the degree that the automotive industry - the biggest employer in this State - has been asking for," Dr Kestell says.

"Industry wants graduates who are up to date with the latest developments in the field and who can come in and make an impact straight away - and this is what our degree will offer them.

"Automotive engineering is so far removed from most people's stereotype of a mechanic getting covered in oil and grease in a dark and dingy workshop. It is actually the leading pioneer for new technology and hi-tech engineering. Automotive engineers design state-of-the-art products and manufacturing systems, and lead the way for others to follow."

Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha says the degree further underlines the University of Adelaide's burgeoning partnership with industry.

"This new degree will provide real and positive outcomes for our students and the industry which will employ them," Professor McWha says. "Our industry partners have proven their enthusiasm for what we are doing by sponsoring an additional lecturer position, who will help with the more specialised courses in the degree.

"Our industry partners will also provide experts to be guest lecturers, and will keep in close contact with the University to ensure the degree is as relevant and timely as possible. "

The new Bachelor of Automotive Engineering degree was launched this morning by the State Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Paul Holloway, at the Sporting Car Club of SA.

Contact Details