Master of Rail Operations Management

CQUniversity’s Master of Rail Operations Management provides the opportunity for those who have successfully completed Graduate Diploma in Rail Operations Management to obtain a qualification that can distinguish them further as someone with a higher capability in rigorous investigation and research in the field of rail operations management.

The Master of Rail Operations Management builds on the knowledge and skills acquired from successful completion of the graduate diploma and requires students to complete an individual research project within the field of rail operations management.

You will carry out background research for the purpose of identifying the problem and need for the project and devise a plan for project execution. You will then implement the project in accordance with the project plan. The outcomes of the project undertaken by students in this program should help to push the boundary of professional practice in rail operations and to benefit the railway industry

What am I studying?

Did you know that Australia has over 43 000km of train track and one of the most efficient heavy-haul transport networks in the world? The rail transport industry is a vital part of our economy, moving both passengers and freight throughout Australia. The advantages of rail transport include efficiency and reliability in addition to the ability to carry greater loads than other forms of transport. Our rail networks service many industries such as mining and agriculture and stretches to some of our most remote locations. The recent shift away from predominantly state-owned railways has seen an increase in the number of private rail operations across Australia which continue to be a major employer and contribute billions of dollars to the economy.

 If you want to be part of an age-old, yet ever-evolving industry, then a career in the rail industry may be for you.

Why Study at CQUniversity

CQUniversity offers a suite of programs in Rail Operations Management which have been developed in conjunction with Rail Innovation Australia (formally known as the Cooperative Research Centre for Railway Engineering and Technologies  or Rail CRC), with significant contributions from its key partner organisations. The suite includes a graduate certificate, graduate diploma and masters programs which have been developed to meet the demand of the Australian rail industry and address the shortage of qualified rail operation managers.

The programs have been designed for people currently working in the field of rail operation and its management, who are seeking to enhance their skills, knowledge and capabilities in order to qualify as professional rail operations manager. Through CQUniversity’s strong linkages to the rail industry, course materials have been developed in collaboration with key industry partners and with permission to use selected training materials developed by the Institute of Rail Operators (UK).  Furthermore, all courses in this program are tutored by practising senior and experienced rail operations managers and consultants.

By undertaking these programs you will acquire a comprehensive and systematic body of knowledge and skills essential for the efficient management of rail operations in a modern rail industry operating in a highly sensitive commercial environment. The programs are available by distance education, allowing you to remain in the workforce and study at a time and place that suits you.                      

Entry Requirements

Students entering the Master program will need to demonstrate two fundamental attributes:

• Sufficient analytical ability to be able to assess a complex problem and determine appropriate solutions
• Sound knowledge in the field of rail operations management.

Entry paths are:

• Completion of the Graduate Diploma in Rail Operations Management with a weighted grade point average of five and a half or higher.

OR

• Other postgraduate qualifications and experience that demonstrate achievement of the above fundamental attributes. Applicants seeking entry via this path will need to attend an interview with members of the steering committee to determine suitability.

Career Opportunities

On completing a Master of Rail Operations Management you will have the skills and qualifications to work as a manager in rail operations.

Program Structure

You are required to complete a total of nine compulsory courses to be awarded the Master of Rail Operations Management. Six of these courses, which constitute Years One and Two of the program, would have been completed either as part of the Graduate Diploma of Rail Operations Management program, or granted as credit as per the entry requirement rules. There are three additional courses required for completion of the masters program.

Students are required to attend a two-day induction workshop in late February prior to commencement of studies.  There will be an end-of-program graduate conference where graduating students are to present their theses to staff, fellow students and an industry audience.

Course Information

For example courses you could study as part of the Master of Rail Operations Management program please click here.

As CQUniversity is committed to providing quality, up-to-date and relevant education, please note courses are refreshed regularly and may not be an exact indication of course availability for your study. Please call 13CQUni 13 27 86 if you have specific questions regarding course information regarding your specific application.

Residential School and Study Requirements

There will be an orientation workshop prior to commencement of studies. There will be an end of program graduate conference where graduating students are to present their thesis.