FAQs - Industry Consulting Projects

Is this a credit bearing unit?

Yes. Depending on the unit you choose, it will be worth 6 or 12 credit points.

Can this unit be counted as a capstone unit?

This unit is listed as part of the capstone suite of units in all comprehensive courses within the faculty. Specialist degrees will have a specific mandatory capstone unit. Please seek course advice if you are unsure of your course requirements.

Do consulting projects run in every teaching period?

Yes, student sourced consulting projects run throughout the year in summer A, Term 1, semester 1, winter and semester 2 teaching periods. However, Monash-sourced projects run only in semesters 1 and 2.

Can I apply for both a placement and a consulting project?

Yes, it is possible to complete both a placement and a consulting project in the same semester. However, please keep in mind that both of these programs require a significant time commitment, and some students may find it more manageable to complete them separately. If you plan to study a consulting project with a full-time enrolment load in semester 2, we would recommend holding off until summer to complete your placement.

Can I choose my project or see the list of projects before applying?

Unfortunately no. Each teaching period is different with different clients and projects becoming available throughout the year. Some projects also contain confidential and proprietary information so cannot be shared until student groups are confirmed.

How does the faculty decide which project group I go into?

The faculty uses the information provided in your application, as well as your major, to match you to a group and project, subject to project availability.

Will I always be placed on a project specifically related to my major?

The faculty considers your major in allocating groups, however consulting projects are designed to be relevant to all students from Business and Commerce degrees. A combination of students from different majors ensures the client gets a full range of skills and allows students to learn from their peers. Group allocations are also dependant on project availability.

Does everyone who applies get accepted?

Consulting project applications are a competitive process and success is based on information you provide in your online application, as well as the number of projects available.

Why do organisations decide to host consulting projects?

There are a number of reasons that host organisations choose to host consulting projects. In some cases, they may not have the required expertise or resources to solve a problem, or they may need a group of students to discover and explain to them what the problem really is. In other cases, they may want an external perspective from someone outside of the organisation who can bring fresh ideas and insights.

Will the assessments be marked individually or as a group?

Project units include a mix of both individual and group assessments. The unit Moodle page will have more detail on your assessment requirements.

How often will I meet with my academic supervisor?

For most projects, these meetings usually occur weekly although you are able to contact your supervisor between meetings.

When will I first meet my client and group?

Once you receive confirmation that your application is successful, you will be invited to attend the compulsory induction session where you will meet your teammates. You will also meet your academic supervisor who will take you through the assessments and how best to succeed in the unit.

Can I complete multiple projects in my course?

Yes, and it will be recorded as a separate unit code on your transcript. Note: while we do permit students to complete multiple projects, the competitive nature of entry to the program means that priority is given to students who’ve not yet completed a project.