Pauline Paul always had a passion for science and technology. She graduated with a Bachelor of Marine Biology from University Kebangsaan Malaysia, but her true passion was in metallurgy – understanding the intricate science of metals, their physical and chemical properties, and their indispensable role in manufacturing and technology.

Murdoch’s unique courses and state-of-the-art facilities

Choosing Murdoch University was a natural decision, given its exclusive offering of the Graduate Diploma in Extractive Metallurgy, a one-of-a-kind program in Western Australia. Plus, the Good Universities Guide 2024 gave postgraduate studies at Murdoch 5-stars for learning resources, student engagement, social equity, and student to teacher ratio.

The Graduate Diploma immerses students in mineral processing operations and metallurgical process plants, nurturing essential skills for mineral identification and analysis. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, such as the $10.1 million Bayer Pilot Plant, students gain practical experience, ensuring they are job-ready upon graduation.

The power of analytical thinking

Analysing scenarios to find relevant solutions has always been in Pauline’s nature. This way of thinking, problem solving and critical decision making empowers Pauline to dissect complex issues, identify patterns, and formulate innovative solutions.

“This way of thinking plays a pivotal role in both my career and my daily life. It allows me to make informed choices and solutions,” she said.

“In our testing process, such as examining ore samples, if we encounter any discrepancies in the results, our approach is to delve deeper through additional research and rigorous testing and monitoring.”

Flexibility key to juggling life and study

One of the key factors that drew Pauline to Murdoch University was its commitment to online learning for her chosen course. The flexibility to study at her own pace, access learning materials anytime and anywhere, and the constant availability of tutors and lecturers were essential for her as a working professional.

“This flexibility has allowed me to effectively juggle my work commitments and family life while pursuing my passion for metallurgy.”

While there is a common perception that online learning falls short in delivering a comparable experience, Pauline experience at Murdoch defied this belief.

“The lecturers and tutors were accessible, readily addressing queries and offering guidance whenever I required assistance. You could truly see their passion for what they were teaching.”

Connection to industry

Designed with industry and working practitioners, Murdoch’s Graduate Diploma in Extractive Metallurgy ensures that students are equipped with practical, industry-relevant knowledge and skills that they can directly translate into the workplace.

“Working as a Metallurgy Technician has meant that I’ve been able to directly apply what I’ve learnt at university in my day -to-day job, which has not only been rewarding but further solidified what I learnt.”

Murdoch’s real-world focus not only enhances students' employability but also allows them to make meaningful contributions to their fields from day one. 

Discover where a postgraduate qualification in mathematics, statistics, chemistry, and physics could take you.