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Master, Graduate Diploma,Graduate Certificate in

RANGELAND MANAGEMENT

Offered by

Learning for a future in the bush

PAGE 1

The rangelands are undergoing significant changes in resource values and uses, land ownership, economic direction and cultural diversity. These involve a fundamental shift from production of commodities to more holistic goals including sustainable development, functional landscapes, quality-assured food and fibre products, conservation of biodiversity, community partnerships, maintenance of ecosystem services, new modes of low impact resource use and tourism.

Rangeland users and managers need to be equipped to deal with the rapidly changing global economy and the increasing expectations of markets, consumers, governments and other stakeholders. Innovation and a new style of education are needed to grapple with the increasing complexity of managing rangeland systems.

Current and emerging issues include sustainable production systems, intensification, greenhouse gas emissions, effective stakeholder interactions, invasive species (eg. weeds, feral animals), loss of biodiversity, new business opportunities (eg. bush foods, carbon trading), attracting and retaining people, changing lease conditions, and of course climate variability and climate change. These are not the sort of things that you can readily learn on-the-job or from your mates, and solutions to many will emerge from a mix of experience, the sciences and traditional knowledge.

This booklet explains how you can gain the knowledge you’ll need for future success in the rangelands, and how to do so in a way that fits with your lifestyle, work and other commitments.

Rangeland Management graduates 2

Three important points of difference 3

Rangeland Managementpostgraduate programs 5

Rangeland-specific and other courses 5

Assessment 6

Feedback and course evaluations 6

Who's doing these programs? 7

Why are they doing postgraduate study? 7

Pathways for entry 8

Preparation for postgraduate study 8

Local support for remote learners 9

Funding your studies 10

Tuition fees 10

Applying 10

CONTENTS

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RANGELAND MANAGEMENT IS CHANGING

PAGE 2

Rangelands Australia (RA) has developed Australia’s only postgraduate coursework programs specifically in Rangeland Management – that is a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Master in Rangeland Management.

These programs are offered Australia-wide and to International students by The University of Queensland.

As a graduate of one of these programs, you will have advanced knowledge of the national and international context which influences the rangelands, its people, natural resources, enterprises and communities. You will understand:

• the complexity of rangeland systems, including the bio-physical and socio-economic dimensions;

• current and emerging issues from a multi-disciplinary and systems perspective;

• management options and practices that are more aligned with important characteristics of the system such as variability in space (eg. vegetation and soils) and in time (eg. weather).

With this knowledge and understanding, your effectiveness, credibility and influence as a land manager or advisor/facilitator will be enhanced. You will also have greater knowledge and skills to address the social, economic and environmental challenges facing individuals, enterprises and communities in the rangelands.

A nationally and internationally recognised qualification from The University of Queensland will put you in a strong position for a career change or advancement.

We are continually reminded that the rangeland programs/courses are relevant to an even wider area, and it seems inevitable that the rangelands of Australia (and the World) will expand as Climate Change bites!

I have certainly benefited from my studies so far. It has given me the opportunity to mix and learn from other people, understand more about our land and our future business, and help the community through increasing the viability of our area.

Christine Ferguson, GCRangelandMan,Myrnong Station via Wanaaring NSW

RANGELAND MANAGEMENT GRADUATES

Thinking in terms of economic, social and environmental impacts is a different framework… which better fits the business reality of these environments.

David Taylor, MRangelandMan,‘Myola’, via Trundle, NSW

PAGE 3

A fresh approach to course development

All too often, tertiary programs and courses are designed in an office, without considering the real-world needs of the graduates or the expectations of stakeholders.

We took a different approach - we went out and we listened to a wide range of stakeholders!

The structure of the rangeland-specific programs was developed according to the priorities expressed in 24 focus groups involving over 450 stakeholders; representing landholders, businesses, agencies, governments, industries, communities and other groups. This approach has ensured that you can now study the most important topics to address current issues, and the most important topics for your future success in the rangelands.

The courses were developed by experienced managers, advisors, scientists and a qualified educational designer – and always with a systems approach and the ‘triple bottom line’ of business success in mind. Learning activities and assessment items address real issues/problems, and are applied directly to your particular enterprise or region to maximize your learning and the benefits to you.

The courses have also been reviewed by further experienced managers, advisors and scientists to ensure that the course materials are relevant, practical, up-to-date and high-quality.

Over 260 people have been involved in the scoping, writing and reviewing of the rangeland-specific courses to date. Their reflections on the process include:

• “being engaged in such an extensive and robust process of scoping, development and writing… has been a profound privilege. It was illuminating and I am in awe at the passion and expertise engaged”;

• “highly impressed with (the RA) initiative and breadth of consultation involved in developing courses – quite unique and essential in this interdisciplinary area”;

• “this type of approach… is most important given the pressures on industry through markets, changes in legislative requirements and climate extremes”;

• “inclusive and comprehensive process – very few courses would ever have this depth of development”.

This highly strategic and consultative course development process means that you now have a range of practical, relevant and refreshingly different courses to choose from.

Courses delivered in a style that suits you

We’ve made it easier for you to balance study and work.

Course delivery is flexible - the courses are offered in three modes (subject to minimum numbers):

• External mode, which allows you to study from home anywhere in rural and remote Australia, or overseas, and to work around your other commitments over a semester (12-14 weeks). You will receive course materials in hard copy and electronically, and engage with fellow students through on-line discussions and teleconferences as you work through the learning materials and assessment items.

OR

• Intensive mode, which allows you to complete a course in a shorter time. This involves a face-to-face five day workshop in a rural or remote location in Australia. You will be required to undertake some pre-reading before the workshop, attend the workshop covering course content, learning and assessment activities, and complete the final assignment(s) after the workshop.

OR

• Internal mode, which allows you to study at The University of Queensland’s Gatton Campus over a semester. You will be involved in on-line discussions with students in other parts of Australia and weekly or fortnightly tutorials as you work through the learning materials and assessment items.

All modes provide formal and informal opportunities to maximize learning, and encourage interaction among other students across Australia’s vast rangelands. You will find this is one of the highlights of the programs!

The Rangeland Management postgraduate programs are responsive to the needs of people inthe rangelands, and are clearly different in three areas in particular.

1.

2.

THREE IMPORTANT POINTS OF DIFFERENCE

I have not only gained a better understanding of the place I work and live in, but I have also gained confidence in myself. I am now much more aware of regional, national and world issues and how they impact on the pastoral industry. I have also greatly enhanced my knowledge and skills in the work that I do everyday.

Trisha Cowley, Technical Officer, Katherine NT

PAGE 4

We also support you in your learning:

• Rangelands Australia offers a ‘Getting into Further Study’ short course specifically designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge for successful completion of postgraduate coursework programs (see page 8)

• As a Rangeland Management student, you will have access to a unique, ‘after hours’ support network through the Rangeland Champions (see page 9).

Flexible delivery helps you balance work, study, family and other commitments.

Outcomes that make a real difference… today and in the future

Graduates and current students have reported a wide range of benefits from undertaking these programs, some of which you too could experience or anticipate. These include personal benefits, enterprise/regional benefits, and community benefits. For example:

Personal benefits

• Greater knowledge and self confidence, and a greater thirst for learning and further knowledge.

• Greater understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, and how to be more effective and influential in various roles in business, organizations and the wider community.

• Qualifications that are valued, respected and can enhance your personal credibility.

• Increased opportunities for self employment, career advancement or career changes.

• Greater capacity to represent rangeland interests, and to advocate for a better deal for your enterprise or region.

• Expanded networks, which could influence the way you look at the rangelands and its issues, and which improves your exposure to innovations and opportunities.

Enterprise &/or regional benefits

• Better understanding of how your rangelands function and ‘best practice’ management.

• Better management of land resources, animals, water, people, etc. which will ensure that your asset values are protected as your legacy for the future.

• Lower costs of production and improved profitability.

• Fewer surprises, through greater awareness and understanding of your external environment and the national and international forces driving change.

• Better planning, decision making and risk management, through consideration of the longer-term and wider implications of decisions and sourcing information and other views in decision making.

• More strategic and proactive in managing for ‘triple bottom line’ outcomes.

• Manage for win-win outcomes in trade-offs between production and environmental objectives.

• Better understanding of the needs and drivers of other stakeholder groups, and more confident and better relationships with the wider community.

• Greater capacity for innovation and managing change.

• Seeing the enterprise/region through ‘different eyes’, and being more open to new and different approaches to land, animal and people management.

Community benefits

• Greater capacity for articulation and advocacy of regional issues and needs.

• Confidence to ‘step up’ to influential and higher roles in your community or industry.

• Greater engagement in community activities (eg. Landcare) and in regional projects.

• Stronger community and industry leadership, which itself attracts people and businesses and can revitalize your community.

The range of possible outcomes shows that there can be significant returns on your investment in these programs.

Yes, you WILL be challenged by these programs, but it’s a challenge you’ll enjoy and will reap the benefits from for many years to come.

3.

Assignments and readings have challenged my thinking and opinions. I have learnt to think critically and more objectively about situations, and to question things. This has helped me greatly not only in managing my property but also through my representation on pastoral and conservation committees, and my desire to help the community come up with practical solutions and strategies for a changing future.

Sharon Oldfield, GCRangelandMan, Cowarie Station via Birdsville Track SA

PAGE 5

RANGELAND MANAGEMENTPOSTGRADUATE PROGRAMSThere are three coursework-based programs available:

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN RANGELAND MANAGEMENT

The Graduate Certificate is an 8 unit program, comprising two core courses (1 and 2 below) and two elective courses, each of two units.

GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN RANGELAND MANAGEMENT

The Graduate Diploma is a 16 unit program, comprising three core courses (1 to 3 below) and up to five elective courses, each of two units.

MASTER OF RANGELAND MANAGEMENT

The Masters is a 16 or 24 unit program, comprising three core courses (below), and up to nine elective courses, most of two units. This program may include a research methodology course (two units) and a 1 or 2 semester (4 or 8 unit) research project.

Rangeland-specific and other courses

* Developed with funding from DAFF and the National Landcare Programme

Core courses

Sustainable Rangeland Production Systems and Regions1

Building Effective Stakeholder Engagements2

Global and National Trends, Local Scenarios3

Elective courses

Grazing Land Management

Property, Catchment and Regional Planning

Diversification and New Industries

Animal Nutrition and Behaviour

Managing Self, Developing and Retaining Others*

Advanced Rangeland Ecology

Reading the Rangelands*

Rangeland Pest Animals, Weeds and Biosecurity*

Rangeland Monitoring and Adaptive Management*

Animal Wellbeing and Health*

Optional Research Project and preliminary Research Methodology course

Research, Development and Extension Methodologies

OR

Advanced Biometrics

Graduate Research Project (1 or 2 semesters)

Further electives are available to meet student needs orinterests, such as:

Agribusiness Supply Chain Management

Business Management

Water and Land Resource Management

'E' Technologies for the Food and Fibre Sectors

Environmental Problem Solving

Rural Community Development

Game Management

Models and Strategies for Change in Regional Communities

Negotiation and Conflict Management in Resource Management

Arrangements have been made to access other rangeland-relevant electives, developed by the Beef, Desert Knowledge, Tropical Savanna and Sheep Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs), and offered by institutions such as the University of New England, Charles Sturt University or Charles Darwin University. These courses would be undertaken through cross-institutional enrolment.

The rangeland-specific courses are also available as electives for other postgraduate coursework programs offered by The University of Queensland or elsewhere. If you are already enrolled in a program offered by another tertiary institution, you would need to organize cross-institutional enrolment. Allow plenty of time to deal with the administration at both universities to complete this process. The necessary forms are available on the RA website under ’Forms’.

A rangeland program is a ‘must do’ for anyone seeking sustainable development and to link the practice and theory of community-based natural resource management.

Tom Garrett, GCRangelandMan,Chair, South West NRM Ltd Charleville Q

PAGE 6

Assignments are challenging, but are relevant to our business.

Christine Ferguson, Myrnong Station via Wanaaring, NSW

There are no ‘examinations’ for the rangeland-specific courses, just three or four assessment items. These may include a combination of on-line discussions, a presentation, and written assignments such as a case study, a literature review, a research report or a reflective journal. To maximize learning and application of knowledge, assignments relate directly to students’ issues or their enterprise, and/or regional issues, as appropriate to you.

FEEDBACK AND COURSE EVALUATIONSThe rangeland-specific courses have been well received, as evidenced by very positive external reviews and student evaluations. These reveal that the courses are very high quality, challenging, practical, up-to-date and relevant. They are providing personal growth and professional development, and are leading to high levels of participant satisfaction.

For example, students who completed courses in 2006-2008 were asked to evaluate the quality and relevance of courses on a 1-5 scale (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree). Across the eight rangeland-specific courses evaluated to date*, the average (and range) of ratings recorded for key evaluation criteria were:

According to students, the things that distinguish the rangeland-

specific courses include:

* For further details on the reviewer and student evaluations of individual courses, go to www.rangelands-australia.com.au and visit the ‘Courses and programs’ pages.

“courses based on identified needs”

“integration of diverse perspectives” and “the balance of information”

“emphasis on learning applied to real rangeland/regional issues”

“good perspective on rangeland issues across Australia”

“flexible teaching with excellent tuition and support”

“valuable learning outcomes, directly applicable to my employment”

“more practical”

“relevance to rangelands systems throughout Australia”

“the challenge of the learning activities”

Assignments are challenging, but are relevant to our business.

Christine Ferguson, GCRangelandMan, Myrnong Station via Wanaaring, NSW

Satisfaction with course content 4.5 (4.3 - 4.8)

Learning and assessment activitieschallenged me to think

4.7 (4.3 - 5.0)

Learning guide and readings wereuseful resources

4.9 (4.8 - 5.0)

Gained new skills and knowledge 4.8 (4.3 - 5.0)

Relevance to my work and/or business

4.9 (4.6 - 5.0)

Relevance to my future inthe rangelands

4.8 (4.6 - 5.0)

Overall satisfaction 4.7 (4.5 - 4.8)

ASSESSMENT

Award winningRangelands Australia won the 2009 Australian Rural Education Award. This award recognises excellence in rural education and initiatives that expand educational opportunities and provide educational benefits to rural Australia.

PAGE 7

• 41% were owners or managers of pastoral-based or mine-related enterprises, with around half of these having entered through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL);

• 59% were CMA/regional NRM body or State agency staff, Landcare facilitators, pastoral inspectors, consultants, local government staff, teachers/training instructors, etc.;

• ages ranged from 21 to 66 years, with about 50% in their 30s and 40s, 20% in their 20s and the rest in their 50s and 60s;

• 10% of students were of Aboriginal descent;

• 65% were women; and

• they live in NSW, NT, Qld, SA and WA.

Why are they doing postgraduate study?

The opportunity to access relevant courses, from home, and to be guided by experienced learning facilitators and stimulated by interactions with others in different parts of the rangelands is clearly valued by these people.

Three broad groups of students are undertaking the rangeland management programs:

1. those who have done some tertiary education (eg. diploma or degree), and who now realize that they need broader and more focussed, rangeland-specific knowledge and skills;

2. those who have experience in the rangelands, have been awarded a Vocational Education and Training (VET) level qualification (taught or by RCC/RPL), and who are now interested in further education and higher qualifications; and

3. those who are experienced managers and wish to further their knowledge, and who realize that short courses and ‘on-the-job’ training are not enough any more.

Which one are you? Whichever, there’s a pathway for you - see diagram opposite.

There have been many catalysts for people’s decision to undertake further study, and especially postgraduate study, including:

• a need or desire to broaden or deepen knowledge and skills;

• a realisation that they could easily be ‘left behind’ due to an isolated and insulated lifestyle or work environment;

• a desire to secure their future, and a future for their family;

• a desire to leave a better legacy;

• a need to do something positive when times are tough;

• poor policy and regulatory decisions that have strengthened their resolve to better advocate rangeland issues;

• a sense that they were not being listened to at community, industry or professional meetings; and

• greater community and government interest and scrutiny of rangeland operations.

What’s motivating you to think of further study?Well, there’s no better time than now!

Enrolments have been growing strongly. In 2009-10, over 120 people were enrolled in rangeland-specific courses. These people directly or indirectly influence the management of over 170 million hectares (45%) of the nation’s grazing lands. Of these:

WHO'S DOING THESE PROGRAMS?

The courses I have completed have all been informative, relevant and stimulating. They provide great depth into the issues facing rangeland managers today. The courses are filling gaps in my knowledge about relevant issues beyond my expectations.

Trent Stillman, GCRangelandMan,Pastoral Coordinator via Leonora WA

PAGE 8

There are multiple pathways towards a higher education qualification, depending on your skills and experience. The ways by which you can enter the postgraduate programs are shown as pink arrows in the diagram (below). Once entered, it is possible to progress step-wise, (ie. from a Graduate Certificate to a Graduate Diploma to a Masters -

see diagram) based on satisfactory completion of courses and by undertaking additional core and elective courses as appropriate to your needs and the level of qualification sought.

Admission or credit Admission or credit may be granted through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This is a process which acknowledges and values formal learning and/or your work and life experiences. An application for RPL could present evidence such as:

• a summary of formal training, grades and qualifications awarded;

• work-related experience such as management initiatives and outcomes;

• relevant reports, plans or publications;

• awards or other recognition of work or achievements;

• membership of industry, regional, Landcare/NRM/catchment or government committees, boards, etc.

Guidelines for Recognition of Prior Learning and Application Forms are available on the RA website under ‘Forms’. The Rangeland Champions in your region (see page 9) can help you with this!

Rangelands Australia offers a ‘Getting into Further Study’ short course for those who have not undertaken formal study for some time, or are unsure about what’s expected of you and how to study. It is strongly recommended that you prepare for further study. The course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge for successful completion of postgraduate coursework programs such as Rangeland Management or natural resource management.

This three-day course is available face-to-face or on-line. The fee is $150 + GST per person.

Contact Rangelands Australia for possible dates at a location near you, or to suggest a location and a date(s).

This initiative is supported by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.

PATHWAYS FOR ENTRY

Preparation for postgraduate study

Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree

The Graduate Certificate program has been an extremely rewarding and challenging experience - both professionally and personally. The courses have challenged me to rethink some of my present practices and viewpoints, and have led to positive changes in the way I manage the properties under my control.

Trent Stillman, GCRangelandMan,Pastoral Coordinator via Leonora WA

PAGE 9

The national network of Championshas been established by DAFF.

LOCAL SUPPORT FOR REMOTE LEARNERS

The current Champions include:

Support and encouragement of students in their learning is provided by a national network of Rangeland Champions. Each of the Champions has experienced the rewards of tertiary education while living in a remote location, and is keen to encourage others to pursue external study from home.

They can assist you as a potential student by providing information about:

• the benefits of study;

• pathways for entry;

• new educational opportunities, and the rangelands programs in particular.

The Champions can also assist you as an enrolled student by providing:

• ‘after hours’ advice regarding university expectations, assignments;

• empathy, support and encouragement.

Mrs Sharon BellDulkaninna Station via Marree SATel: 08 8675 8307Email: cooryninna@bigpond.com

Mr Jim CawthorneSandy Creek SA

Tel: 08 8524 4527Email: cawthorne.jim@hotmail.com

For more information on the Champions go to: www.rangelands-australia.com.au

Mr Bob ShepherdCharters Towers Q

Tel: 07 4787 2891Email: bob.shepherd@uq.edu.au

Mrs Dee Wilkes-Bowes‘Anderloose’ via Naradhan NSW

Tel: 02 6896 9892Email: karanga@aapt.net.au

Mr Richard Golden‘Potters Flat’ via Yuleba QTel: 07 4623 5228Email: rhgpf@westnet.com.au

Mr Mike ChukLongreach Q

Tel: 07 4658 3394Email: mike.chuk@dcq.org.au

Mrs Chris FergusonMyrnong Station via Wanaaring NSWTel: 02 6874 7863Email: dlcj@bigpond.com

Dr Dionne WalshDarwin NTTel: 08 8988 4749Email: rdtwalsh@bigpond.com

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Mr Joe RolfeMareeba QTel: 0427 378 412 Email: joe.rolfe@deedi.qld.gov.au

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Their guidance has enriched my learning experience and taken my thinking to another level

Sharon Oldfield, GCRangelandManCowarie Station via Birdsville Track, SA

“It’s not as daunting with a ‘sounding board’ readily available; the Champions’ encouragement and helpful hints have boosted my confidence and motivation”

Colleen Costello,New Crown Station via Alice Springs NT

PAGE 10

A great way to engage with others sharing a passion for the rangelands, while educating myself with materials relevant to our business and industry.

Tracey Hayes, Deepwell Station via Alice Springs, NT

FUNDING YOUR STUDIES

2011 tuition fees

Applying

Domestic students

Commonwealth Supported Places are available for the Rangeland Management programs. If you are eligible, the Australian Government contributes substantially to your fees. You would pay a significantly reduced contribution (ie. ~55-65% less than the published fees - below), and can take advantage of deferred payments via the HECS-HELP scheme. Student contribution amounts vary depending on the courses studied, and in 2011 will range from around $1000 to $1150 for a 2 unit core or elective course in the Rangeland Management program. On top of this, there is a further 20% discount if these fees are paid up-front.

Alternatively, and specifically for eligible postgraduate

students paying full fees, there is FEE-HELP, another Australian Government loan scheme.

Students repay either a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan through the tax system once their income is above a certain threshold. For further information, go to: www.goingtouni.gov.au

International students

Information on scholarships and other financial support for international students is available at: www.uq.edu.au/international

Further useful information is available at: www.immi.gov.au

The total tuition fee does not have to be paid up-front; rather, fees are paid each semester according to the number of courses that a person enrols in. A student’s actual tuition fee may vary in accordance with their choice of electives, and their eligibility for a Commonwealth Supported Place or scholarship.

ProgramDomestic students –

Indicative total tuition feeInternational students –

Indicative total tuition fee

Graduate Certificate (8 units) $9,800 A$13,850

Graduate Diploma (16 units) $19,600 A$27,700

Masters (16-24 units/24 units) $19,600 – 29,400 A$40,275

Due dates for applications Semester

31 January 2011 Semester 1, 2011

30 June 2011 Semester 2, 2011

31 January 2012 Semester 1, 2012

You can start in Semester 1 or 2!

To apply to enter the program, obtain an ‘Application for Postgraduate Coursework’ form online at www.uq.edu.au/study/forms/postgrad/ApplicPostgradCourse.pdf OR atwww.rangelands-australia.com.au and, with the necessary documentation, forward to the Coordinator of the Rangeland Management Program by the following dates.

Rangelands Australia gratefully acknowledges the support of our sponsors for the development, promotion, delivery and administration of these rangeland-specific programs and courses.

Dr John A TaylorCoordinator, Rangeland Management programProfessor of Rangeland ManagementDirector, Rangelands Australia

The University of Queensland – Gatton CampusGatton QLD 4343

Telephone: (07) 5460 1660 or 0429 725 838

Fax: (07) 5460 1661

Email: rangelands@uqg.uq.edu.au

Web: www.rangelands-australia.com.au

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Our sponsors

For further information, contact the Coordinator of the Rangeland Management program, visit the RA website OR contact one of the Rangeland Champions (see page 9).

Learning for a future in the bush

The Master in Rangeland Management has opened doors in areas that I wouldn’t have thought possible (or as enjoyable) before the course. I now see myself as a contributor to a wider region (the rangelands) with a consciousness and better understanding of the factors that influence the region, its success and its future, and how I can make a difference.

Melissa Driscoll, MRangelandMan, Hughenden, Qld