Code
ENGR4001
Credits
25
Graduate Attributes
Introduction
What began as a research question in the first semester now becomes a fully realised engineering investigation. ENGR4001 represents the second and final stage of the year-long capstone sequence. Building on the research plan developed in ENGR4000, students transition from planning to implementation. They apply their chosen methodologies, carry out detailed investigations, and begin generating findings that address a real-world engineering problem. The unit focuses on applying engineering principles with independence and professionalism, guided by academic supervision. Activities may involve technical design, laboratory experimentation, field data collection, modelling, or a combination of these approaches. As the project evolves, students are expected to adapt their strategies, justify their decisions, and critically evaluate the results of their work. Deliverables include a comprehensive technical report (minor thesis) and a formal oral presentation. These serve as evidence of the student’s ability to undertake and communicate a sustained piece of engineering research to both technical and non-technical audiences. Throughout the semester, the project logbook remains an important tool for documenting progress, recording feedback, and reflecting on the decision-making process. This ongoing practice supports deeper learning and reinforces the habits of engineering judgment, accountability, and adaptability. ENGR4001 is more than a final unit, it is the culmination of a student’s development as a globally recognised professional engineer. The resulting project contributes directly to their portfolio, showcasing the integration of research capability, technical skill, and reflective practice as they transition into industry or further professional opportunities.
Individual Study
1 x 8 Hours Weekly
Unit Learning Outcomes
- 1 continuously undertake and manage the planned research work professionally and ethically to generate project results, GC1, GC4, GC5, GC6
- 2 evaluate and present the project results in the context of the research literature, and discuss the limitations of the research methods used and the results obtained, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC6
- 3 formulate and assess the conclusions of the project, and make recommendations for further research and for application of the project results, GC2,GC4, GC6
- 4 professionally communicate the progress and outcomes of the research project, GC3, GC6
Course Learning Outcomes
- 4 Apply systems thinking for innovative solutions to global chemical engineering challenges, discern knowledge and undertake applied research in a discipline of chemical engineering,
- 6 Demonstrate lifelong learning habits, teamwork and leadership abilities, project management skills, and the ability to identify opportunities for career-wide professional growth, necessary for advancing a career in engineering and beyond
Assessment Breakdown
Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback. The Unit Learning Outcomes (ULOs) have been changed to better align with Curtin's Graduate Capabilities (GC) and Engineering Australia Stage 1 Competencies. The new Project Initiation Document for lab-based projects will replace the previous Scope of Work (SOW)document. The unit materials, rubrics and templates will be reviewed and updated as needed. The Oral Presentation will be conducted in a student conference format with some marks given for engagement in the conference activities.