Two specially designed short courses in Aged Care and Cybersecurity have been developed by Flinders University in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Designed to support local industry and increase employment as South Australia recovers from the pandemic, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students) Professor Clare Pollock says the Higher Education certificate courses will be available fully online.
"As a result of current social restrictions, many people have found themselves out of work or with reduced hours. They're seeking high-quality, swift and affordable courses to boost their employability" Professor Pollock says.
"We've identified areas of growing demand in SA and nationally in aged care, and cybersecurity as offering excellent job prospects within a short timeframe.
"Our Certificate in Aged Care covers foundation skills in ageing studies, attitudes, language and communication, and mental health and Psychological wellbeing in later life, plus an option to study either dementia or contemporary approaches to aged care.
"Meanwhile, COVID-19 has seen a huge societal shift to online activity and with it, a surge in digital attacks. Our Certificate in Cybersecurity Fundamentals covers cybersecurity, database modelling and knowledge engineering, computer programming and networks and cybersecurity.
"Both courses can be completed online in a single semester in six months, and both offer the option of continuing study to obtain a Bachelor degree.
"These are practical and affordable means to upskill individuals and help our community better manage the COVID-19 pandemic and recover faster in its aftermath," Professor Pollock says.
The courses start in July for completion by December. As a result of a federal government subsidy, the courses can be offered in 2020 for a reduced fee of $2,500.
