Master of Accident Investigation (Specialisation)

The Master of Accident Investigation (Specialisation) develops advanced level expertise in the investigation and analysis of the factors which lead to accidents and the interventions required to prevent their recurrence.

You will gain advanced knowledge and skills in effective accident investigation management of multi-faceted accident investigations utilising sophisticated analytical and problem solving methods.

This program will be attractive to those who have responsibility for accident investigations across industry and society. The program provides core studies in the principles of accident investigation, accident phenomenology, accident forensics, accident analysis, human factors investigation and the specialist domain contexts of aviation, rail, road and industrial. You will complete an applied accident investigation project based on a ‘real’ accident reconstruction at the university ‘crash lab’ and a three term capstone accident investigation or prevention research project.

The program has been developed in consultation with Australia’s leading accident investigation professionals across air, rail, road and industrial contexts, and the leading organisations and government authorities which inform public safety strategies.

What am I studying?

CQUniversity's new program area of accident forensics is the first and only program area of it's kind in Australia, employing a multidisciplinary approach that draws on principles from science, occupational health and safety, human factors and engineering to perform and understand accident investigations across rail, road, aviation and resource industries.

Entry Requirements

To enter the Master of Accident Investigation (Specialisation) you must have:

• A three year bachelor degree from an Australian university, or
• professional (non-degree) qualifications or equivalent plus clear indication of relevant work experience and/or employment indicating a career in accident investigation, or
• other relevant qualifications but working towards professional career development in accident investigation or related area, and who have had at least five years work experience.

When applying for entry without a three year bachelor degree from an Australian university you will be assessed by the Head of Program.

When applying for entry via this alternative approach you will need to provide evidence which shows the ability to:

• write high level reports;
• read and analyse academic literature, government policy texts and create detailed reports; and
• complete high level numeracy tasks applicable to workplace situations.

Career Opportunities

Safety and accident investigation roles exist in management, consultancy and practice across a number of industries such as insurance, primary industries, rural safety, manufacturing, mining, services, transport, aviation, employer associations, the defence fores, health and government departments and authorities such as the police force.

Work Intergrated Learning

A feature of the program is that you will carry out practical investigation exercises in the exciting new crash laboratory at CQUniversity Bundaberg.

In year two of the masters degree you will undertake an investigation project in the Crash Lab using the techniques and methods delivered in the program. Also, in year three, you will utilise the crash lab during your specialisation studies in road, rail, aviation or industrial accident investigation. You may also elect to complete your capstone three course masters research project in the lab using an accident scenario as the centrepiece of your investigative research.

You will be expected to access learning opportunities within their own or other workplaces throughout the program.

Program Structure

To meet the requirements of the award you must complete a total of 12 courses including 6 core courses; 3 courses from a specialist stream (Aviation, Rail, Road or Industrial) and a research project (3 courses).

Course Information

For example courses you could study as part of the Master of Accident Investigation (Specialisation) 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

Three to five day residential schools at CQUniversity Bundaberg 'crash lab' during the program for practical skill development. 

Professional Recognition

Graduates will meet the education requirements for professional membership with the Safety Institute of Australia and should apply after gaining relevant field experience.

The program should also meet the specialist investigation education criteria of the Australian, New Zealand and International Society of Air Safety Investigators and graduates of the program should gain professional grade membership of the Society after completing the program and gaining relevant field experience.