Green light for automotive degree

A new degree at the University of Adelaide will put its graduates on the fast track to a successful career in the automotive industry.

The Bachelor of Automotive Engineering is the first degree 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 said 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 said.

"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 said the degree further underlines the University of Adelaide's burgeoning partnership with industry.

"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," Professor McWha said.

"These 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."

Industry Minister Mr Paul Holloway said the State's car manufacturing industry will benefit enormously from a further influx of high-calibre graduates.

"Over many years, the industry has made significant contributions to the State's economy," Mr Holloway said.

"Of the 350,000 cars made every year in Australia, about half are manufactured here in Adelaide.

"As well as the two major manufacturers located here, around 40 components producers are also located within the State.

"The initiative to establish this automotive engineering degree was prompted by the recognition that the automotive industry, like many others, was beginning to experience a skill shortage.

"The skill shortage is the result of significant new vehicle programs by all four of Australia's manufacturers as well as escalating market demand for new vehicles both locally and internationally.

"As a result, it was clear that automotive engineering skills development needed to be recognised and addressed by the South Australian community.

"This new degree is another step towards ensuring that the South Australian industry remains at the forefront of world automobile manufacturing."

Story by Ben Osborne