Monash depth units

Monash depth units are research-based electives that explore major global issues such as climate change, health and well-being, and social inclusion.

You can include depth units as part of your regular coursework. Simply complete the units you find interesting and we'll credit them towards your degree.

Depth units will give you:

• research skills and knowledge
• interpersonal skills
• hands-on experience
• employability
• valuable insights from industry experts

You can apply the skills and abilities you gain to transform local and international communities. The depth units will teach you how to act now for a better tomorrow.

Who are they for?

The depth units are open to you as a Monash student. We offer you different units based on your year level. If you are considering studying at Monash, or are deciding on your units for the next year, take a look so you can plan your degree. The depth units complement your Monash education, and can form a suite of valuable experiences within your degree.

How do I enrol?

Generally, the same way as you would any other Monash unit. Choose one of the units below for specific entry requirements and enrolment details.

Depth Units in 2012

Climate Change: An Interdisciplinary Challenge

Offered: Semester 2, 2012
Campus: Clayton
Level: First year
Unit code: MON1001

The basic principles and physical processes that define and govern the Earth's climate are a vital component of debate on climate change.

In this unit, you will explore these principles and processes, their role in establishing the variability of climate, and the responses of the atmosphere and ocean to these forces. You will also investigate the major human decisions that affect climate and the global governance of climate change, their broader consequence, such as rising sea levels and climate change refugees, and strategies to alleviate these consequences.

Choose this unit if you want to engage in climate change debate, make a significant contribution to policy, or ensure that the Earth's climate is at the forefront of economic and social change.

The Human Context of Illness

Offered: Semester 2, 2012
Campus: Clayton
Level: Second year
Unit code: MON2001

A deep understanding of the effects of illness on a person cannot confine itself to medical factors. We must also consider the social, personal, philosophical, psychological and biomedical aspects of illness.

Develop the broadest possible perspective and understanding of human concepts, attitudes and responses to health, well-being and illness. A rotation of six to eight study areas will engage academics from across Monash, giving you insight into health, well-being and illness from a cross-disciplinary perspective.

Do you want to develop the skills and techniques that will enhance your knowledge and understanding of human health and illness? This unit will deepen your insight and commitment to the principles and practice of equity and social justice, compassion and cross-cultural sensitivity.

Improving Health Futures in a Global World

Offered: Semester 2, 2012
Campus: Caulfield
Level: Second year
Unit code: MON2002

Explore the impacts of today's global health challenges on international development efforts. Study real-life projects led by Oxfam Australia to learn how to respond to these challenges in the context of development.

The unit focuses on the living and working conditions that contribute to the health and well-being of people around the world. Conditions like freedom from poverty, access to education, gender equality and the ability to survive natural disasters.

Want to do volunteer project work overseas? This unit will provide a deep understanding and appreciation of the realities and challenges of working with other cultures and systems. This unit is invaluable if you are planning a career in community development, public health policy, and government and non-government aid and development organisations.
You will actively contribute in Australia to Oxfam projects that may be implemented within Australia or overseas.

Language and Social Inclusion

Offered: Semester 1, 2012
Campus: Clayton
Level: Third year
Unit code: MON3002

The way language is used plays important roles in social inclusion and exclusion. The way we use language marks us as members of some social groups, but it can also create boundaries, marking others as outsiders.

You will research language use in real settings to understand the ways in which groups of people are included in rapidly changing social processes. You will examine the tensions and problems that can arise from human interaction

Any career that requires clear and effective communication will benefit from the research and knowledge that comes from this unit.

Sustainability: learning and living it

Offered: Semester 2, 2012
Campus: Clayton
Level: Second year
Unit Code: MON2222

A deep understanding of the principles of and current research in sustainability will equip you with a suite of skills to advocate for sustainable living in many settings.

This unit introduces the multifaceted concept of sustainability. Using multiple perspectives that are informed by research, the unit will present a coherent and engaging introduction to the concept of sustainability.

Broader sustainability concepts and implications will be explored through shared individual and collective experiences. You will explore new interpretations, applications and evaluations of sustainability by actively researching contemporary cases relevant to home, work and play.

The Sustainable Planet

Offered: Summer Semester A, 2012
Campus: Sunway
Level: First year
Unit Code: MON1800

Research into supporting the sustainability of our planet is vital for our survival.

Humans have had an enormous impact on the world's resources to such an extent that our survival is in jeopardy. You will investigate the potential of recent research into science, medicine, engineering, architecture and social science to understand these problems and to ameliorate them - to protect the environment, enhance the quality of our lives and promote social justice.

Working in a group with peers from several disciplines, you will undertake a research project on how to support the sustainability of our planet and to make the world a better place. You will develop and refine your research skills and be introduced to the perspectives on sustainability offered by a range of disciplines.