Island classroom helps regional students turn environmental passion into careers
For many CQUniversity environmental science students, studying online means balancing university with life in regional and remote communities.
But for one week each year, students swap screens for fieldwork on Woppa (Great Keppel Island), gaining hands-on industry experience, building professional networks and creating lifelong friendships.
This year, students travelled from across Queensland and interstate to take part in CQUniversity Australia's annual environmental science residential school, where they worked alongside researchers and lecturers to explore real-world environmental monitoring techniques in one of the state's most unique natural classrooms.
Over five days, students deployed wildlife camera traps, monitored marine environments using baited remote underwater video systems (BRUVS), undertook vegetation surveys and learned how environmental data is collected, analysed and used to inform environmental management.
CQUniversity Associate Professor and residential school coordinator Nathan English said the experience gave students opportunities that extended well beyond the classroom.
"For many of our students, particularly those studying online or living in regional and remote areas, this is their first opportunity to spend extended time with their classmates," Assoc Prof English said.
"They're developing practical environmental science skills, but they're also building friendships, professional relationships and support networks that help them succeed throughout their studies.
"We have students from places like Emerald, Longreach and beyond who may never have met another environmental science student face-to-face. By the end of the week, they're collaborating, sharing ideas and building connections that often continue long after the residential school ends."
The residential school has been delivered on Woppa since 2020 and is a core component of CQUniversity's Bachelor of Science and Environment, delivered in partnership with GKI Hideaway and the Woppaburra Traditional Owners.
A highlight for many students is learning directly from Woppaburra man Robert Muir Jr, who welcomes participants to Country and shares knowledge about the Island's cultural and environmental significance.
"We sought permission from the Woppaburra people before establishing the residential school and they've been valued partners in the program ever since," Assoc Prof English said.
"Students gain a deeper understanding of the Island's environmental values while learning about the cultural connections to Country and the importance of working respectfully with Traditional Owners.
"It's an authentic experience that leaves a lasting impression and helps shape how our future environmental professionals approach their work."
Bachelor of Science and Environment student Alia Britten said the residential school reaffirmed her passion for working outdoors and protecting the environment.
"I don't have a specific career in mind yet, but I know I want to work outdoors, contribute to environmental outcomes and make a positive difference," Ms Britten said.
"When we arrived, we were welcomed by Woppaburra man Robert Muir Jr, who shared stories about the Island's history, culture and traditions.
"I found that really meaningful and, as an Indigenous student, it helped me feel a stronger connection to Country."
As an online student, Ms Britten said meeting her classmates and lecturers in person was one of the most valuable parts of the experience.
"Talking with other students reminded me that everyone is on their own study journey and facing similar challenges," she said.
"The researchers were fantastic. Nathan, Sally, Conor and Paul made the activities engaging, practical and enjoyable.
"Seeing the passion and dedication the teaching team brings to their work motivated me to put even more effort into my own studies."
Researchers from Coastal Marine Ecosystems Research Centre (CMERC) play an important role in the residential school, providing students with direct access to scientists actively working in the field.
CMERC Postdoctoral Research Fellow Dr Conor Mac Donnell said the residential school connected students with researchers and helped bring potential career pathways to life.
"Working alongside students in the field gives us the chance to have conversations that don't always happen in a lecture," Dr Mac Donnell said.
"Students can ask questions about research, learn about different career opportunities and get a realistic picture of what working in environmental science looks like.
"As an early career researcher, I enjoy showing students that a career in science is achievable and that there are many different pathways into the profession.
"The residential school creates a really supportive learning environment where students can build confidence, develop practical skills and connect with people working in the industry."
Graduates of CQUniversity's environmental science programs pursue careers in environmental consulting, conservation, natural resource management, mining, agriculture, government agencies and research, while others continue into teaching or postgraduate study.
Assoc Prof English said environmental science offered graduates a wide range of opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
"Science opens the door to an enormous range of career paths," he said.
"If you're curious about the natural world and want a career that combines problem-solving, fieldwork and making a difference, environmental science can take you in many different directions."
Prospective students can learn more about CQUniversity's environmental science study options at cqu.edu.au/science.
