The NCDEA is now taking enrolments in the Certificate IV and the Diploma of Food Science and Technology (specialising in dairy) program but there are limited places for 2012. There is also an opportunity to commence some study in 2011 for the 2012 program.
This nested 3 year part-time course offers industry and students the opportunity to gain improved expertise and product specific operational skills; enhanced performance improvement capability in the industry and workplace competence in process operations.
The program is structured to achieve a depth of knowledge in dairy science and technology that will lead to demonstrated performance improvement outcomes in factory sites and sponsoring companies.
The program structure builds on a science and technology base followed by dairy technology and product-specific studies. Delivered in an integrated format, students learn through a blend of media-rich on-line delivery, linked to short attendance at the Werribee campus, supported by the NCDEA staff. Students average 3 to 4 single weeks per year, where laboratory and factory practical sessions are linked with classroom and tutorial activities. Study while on-the-job is supported by the Dairy Virtual Campus; Student networks; podcasts and web-based seminars (webinars).
Structure of the Program

Skills Recognition
The Diploma program will focus on accelerating student progress through effective delivery as well as recognising the student's capabilities through Skills Recognition. Each applicant will be offered a review of their current skills, knowledge and prior studies to enable advanced standing in the program where appropriate.
Advanced Entry
Students with a Certificate IV in Food Science & Technology (or other disciplines), or with significant industry experience may be eligible for advanced standing in the Diploma program. This could allow individuals to enter the second or third level of the Diploma, reducing completion time by as much as 15 months.
Industry staff can also participate in specific skill set programs, where level 2 and 3 product streams may be studied without the commitment to a longer course. For example – students may wish to focus solely on Cheese Science and Technology to enhance their skills and capabilities, delivered in a three month period.
Course delivery
The course is provided in a “facilitated-delivery” mode, which utilises a number of different techniques to support student learning and progression. Subjects are provided through a combination of block release and on-line delivery over the internet through the NCDEA Dairy Virtual Campus (Dairy VC), utilising email, webinars, SMS, web conferencing, podcasts and telephone contact.
Students are provided with electronic files of Primary Resources as a base for their study, and progression through the topic areas will be facilitated by e-delivery. Each subject is supported by multimedia based web pages designed to lead the student through their study. Email, phone and fax and communication with teaching staff and within the student cohort continues throughout the study periods and are essential aspects of the program delivery.
Some subjects require a block release attendance at Werribee. Learning in subjects such as Dairy Chemistry, Dairy Engineering and Dairy Microbiology is improved through direct face to face learning on campus at block release weeks, scheduled across the program period. Practical exercises in the laboratory and pilot factory are requirements of most subjects. Each level requires four single week blocks, depending on elective selections, spread across the calendar year. Workplace based on-line webinars are also an essential part of student learning.
Fees
Students may be eligible for Victorian State Government subsidised training depending on prior qualifications, age and term address. Tuition fees for all government subsidised training vary according to the course category or level. The maximum fee is currently $1250 to $2500 per year, depending on the study level.
Non-eligible students may enrol on a fee-for-service basis, or may be eligible for exemption. Please contact us for more information. The NCDEA staff would be pleased to visit with staff and industry to discuss the program and student enrolment.
Further Information
Michael Robinson, Werribee Programs Manager on 1300 0 NCDEA (1300 0 62332) or
Email: mrobinson@ncdea.edu.au
The NCDEA staff would be pleased to meet with staff and industry to discuss the program and student enrolment.
Updated on
20 January, 2012
by Webmaster SK
Authorised by: M Robinson
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