Property degree takes Amy from real estate to renewables

14 January 2025
Blonde women in glasses smiling at camera
Bachelor of Property alumnus Amy McClelland

By Tiahna Fiddling

CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Property is opening new doors and granting the keys to a successful career for recent graduate Amy McClelland.

After various industry roles, real estate sales, site sourcing, and property development, Amy said she decided to upskill when her career progression stalled.

“I had been working in the property sector for a number of years but found that my career had hit a roadblock because I lacked formal qualifications,” Amy said.

“After researching different options, I decided upon the Bachelor of Property because of the varied course content. 

"I thought that it would lend itself to career progression in several different areas in the industry.”

Starting her degree in 2019 and completing it in 2022, Amy studied online during the pandemic from her regional New South Wales home in Lake Macquarie.

“I worked during my degree and home-schooled the kids through the COVID-19 lockdowns. It was challenging!”

Since graduating, Amy found employment as a Land Manager for Turnbull Renewables where she secures land for renewable projects such as pumped hydro and wind farms and ensuring social license within the communities.

“I spend a lot of time on farms in the Upper Hunter, chatting to landowners and members of the community,” she explained.

“I work within a small, dynamic team and can honestly say that I love what I do. I love meeting new people and am partial to a cup of tea.

“The Bachelor of Property provided me with an understanding of land valuation, property economics, project management, finance, contracts, and property law. This knowledge is integral for negotiating land contracts, modelling financial returns, and having a grasp on the macro and microeconomic factors at play.

“Anyone who has an interest in property should seriously consider this course. The content is relevant in the ‘real world’ and really does provide an edge in the industry. 

“The wide range of careers that can be pursued from the Bachelor of Property is quite incredible and is what makes this course unique.”

Amy also acknowledged the additional ambassadorship, mentoring, and scholarship opportunities that helped her to develop leadership and practical skills that employers appreciate.

Amy was also one of CQU’s New Colombo Plan (NCP) students, contributing to the development of a homestay business in Fiji.

"My time on Beqa Island was an incredible experience. As part of a small student group, I was tasked with creating a promotional website for Beqa homestays alongside local hosts," Amy said. 

"This experience reshaped my views on life in the Pacific Islands and forged lasting friendships in both Australia and Fiji. I hope to return with my family someday."

Want to unlock a career in property? Explore CQUniversity's Property courses website.