Master of Bioproduct Manufacturing Engineering - 2019

Bioproduct manufacturing is an emerging but fast-growing industry. It looks at innovatively converting natural renewable biological resources, such as wood and crop waste, into a wide range of value-added chemicals, materials and energy. With the increasing challenges with resource scarcity and environmental pollution, there is a strong global demand for bioproduct engineers who can design sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions for new materials and energy-efficient sources.

A qualification in bioproduct manufacturing engineering from Monash University provides you with an opportunity to pursue your passion for sustainability and innovation and be part of the growing biofutures industry.

With a diverse set of skills in applied engineering coupled with lean manufacturing, project management and entrepreneurship, bioproduct manufacturing engineers will be uniquely placed in a rapidly expanding job market.

Gain a unique understanding of the biofutures industry and the emerging economic, social and environmental benefits of converting renewal bio-based resources to sustainable products.

The course equips you with skills to discover, design and develop sustainable engineering solutions to convert bioresources and waste streams into value-add products such as biomaterials, bioenergy and bioproducts. The online approach will enable you to maintain your professional career whilst gaining an expert master's qualification.

These course outcomes are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level 9 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 9 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/handbooks/alignmentofoutcomes.html).

Upon successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:

1. assess numerical and data analysis problems from an engineering perspective with reference to relevant social, cultural, environmental, legislative, ethical and business factors
2. practice evidence-based entrepreneurship by formulating and testing hypotheses with potential customers to enhance internal and external business relationships
3. design bioproduct manufacturing processes for a variety of biomass feedstocks based on classical chemical reaction engineering and advanced biotechnology processes
4. source, characterise and utilise naturally-occurring biopolymers as replacements for non-renewable polymers
5. demonstrate lean manufacturing techniques in relation to bioproduct manufacturing processing to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery
6. critically evaluate potential bioproduct manufacturing opportunities and projects to provide sustainable, innovative product pathways for new and existing plants
7. apply sound scientific and research methodologies to bioproduct manufacturing projects, while taking into account social, economic and practical engineering aspects of the operation and integration of bioproduct manufacturing processes.

The course comprises 8 units (48 points) structured into three parts: Part A. Core units, Part B. Specialist units and Part C. Research and knowledge units.

Part A. Core units

These units are designed to establish IT and data literacy and develop essential skills that translate theory into engineering practice.

Part B. Specialist units

You will identify, interpret and critically appraise current developments and advanced technologies, and apply this knowledge within the bioproduct manufacturing discipline.

Part C. Research and knowledge units

You will complete an industry-related research project, undertaken over two consecutive semesters and in close contact with a Faculty academic in a relevant field of choice. You will apply the practical and theoretical skills gained in the other 6 units to this project.

This course is delivered online only. You must be capable of accessing Monash University online materials (including Moodle) in order to enrol in the course.

This course comprises eight units (48 points) which are structured into three parts: Part A. Core units (12 points), Part B. Specialist units (24 points) and Part C. Research and knowledge units (12 points). All students complete Part A, Part B and Part C.

The course progression mapcourse progression map (https://www.monash.edu/engineering/current-students/enrolment-and-re-enrolment/course-information/course-maps) provides guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.

Units are 6 points unless otherwise indicated.

Part A: Core units (12 points)

• CHE5001 Data analysis
• CHE5002 Industrial entrepreneurship

Part B: Specialist units (24 points)

• CHE5882 Biomass and biorefineries
• CHE5886 Advanced biopolymers
• CHE5887 Lean bioproduct manufacturing
• CHE5888 Sustainability and innovation

Part C: Research and knowledge units (12 points)

• ENG5005 Research methods
• ENG5006 Research practice

Successful completion of this course may provide a pathway to a higher degree by research. You will need to demonstrate a strong academic record in your prior and/or current studies.

If you are considering a research degree you are advised to consult the course coordinator in regards to course progression.