The course has been developed with support from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), with the backing of the Institute of Wastes Management, the Environmental Services Association and the Environment Agency. The first intake will start in Autumn 2001, with taught sessions beginning in 2002.
A spokesman for the university said that waste management is a fast-developing, multidisciplinary area that increasingly relies on a sound technological base. “The waste management industry and its regulators form a well-defined group, with a recognised need for education, training and continuing professional development (CPD).”
The aim of the course is to educate and prepare waste management professionals for the technological challenges facing the industry. The programme has a strong technological bias, and is specifically tailored for part-time study by people already working in waste management and related areas.
The minimum period of part-time study needed to gain an MSc is two years. Students who complete the taught modules without preparing a dissertation can obtain a postgraduate diploma in Sustainable Waste Management, and individual modules can also be taken as stand-alone CPD courses.
Course Modules include recycling and minimisation and the bioprocessing of waste through composting and anaerobic digestion. Typical course assignments might be to
design a technological process;
prepare a waste licensing application;
devise a testing strategy for a leachate control system;
consider waste minimisation options based on audit data;
evaluate statistical data for strategic planning of recycling;
carry out an environmental impact assessment for hazardous waste disposal.
Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements for the course are at least a second-class honours BEng or BSc degree in a relevant engineering or science subject. Southampton looks at each application individually, however, and candidates who do not match the standard profile but who have suitable academic qualifications and industry experience are encouraged to apply.
EPSRC scholarships are available to cover tuition fees and accommodation during the one-week intensive tuition periods. Students can apply for these directly, or their employers can contact the course staff for information. Southampton believes the programme will be seen by employers as a way to attract high-quality young graduates, and as well as providing formal training for existing staff.
For more information see Southampton course or contact:
Dr Charles Banks, tel: 023 80 594650, or by email.
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