Metro Trains Melbourne, a joint venture between MTR Corporation, John Holland and UGL, is proudly marking 15 years as the franchise operator of Melbourne’s metropolitan railway network.

To celebrate, Metro Trains Melbourne has announced 15 scholarships, to help kick start a career in the rail industry.

The scholarship covers the costs of completing Australasian Railway Association’s ‘Professional Certificate in Rail’ course – a 25-week online program (approx. 2-hours per week) which is industry-designed and recognised.

The ARA Professional Certificate in Rail combines the ARA’s five industry-leading courses with a live webinar and an optional site-visit.

We welcome all interested applicants to apply and encourage applications from women and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders.

Requirements

• Applicants must be over the age of 18.
• Successful applicants will be required to undergo a selection process including a police check.
• Applicants must not have previously worked for Metro Trains Melbourne.
• It is preferred that this scholarship is for those seeking to begin their careers in the rail industry.
• Scholarship recipients must commit to completing the course, commencing on 3 March 2025 (25-week online program, approx. 2-hours per week).
• Scholarship recipients must be willing to have their name and photo used in promotional activities.

FAQ

How long is the course?
The Australasian Railway Associations ‘Professional Certificate in Rail’ course is a 25-week online program.

How much time will I need to commit each week to learning?
Participants should plan to spend 90minutes to 2-hours each week on learnings. This time includes reading and watching learning material, participating in forum discussions and taking each course quiz. Participants may spend more time reviewing additional learning resources.

How are the scholarship fees covered?
Metro Trains Melbourne will cover the cost of the course.

What will I learn?
The course is a comprehensive and interconnected learning experience covering the technical, operational and safety aspects of rail systems through in-depth courses on rail operations, signalling, rollingstock and infrastructure. It provides a thorough perspective on the rail industry, discussing industry challenges and highlighting issues such as automation, sustainability and innovation.

What happens if I can’t attend the live webinar?
A webinar recording will be made available to all certificate participants. Attendance at the live webinar is not required to complete the ARA Professional Certificate in Rail. However, participants will benefit from the opportunity to interact with fellow participants and the webinar presenter.

What if I need more time to complete the certificate?
Participants who cannot complete all five courses within 25 weeks may be able to continue learning in a later cohort. Contact the ARA as soon as possible before the final date of learning.

How is the ARA Professional Certificate in Rail accredited?
The ARA Professional Certificate in Rail is industry-designed and recognised and has been developed to support the industry’s needs. Industry bodies provide a third stream of educational products. These are often referred to as microcredentials or professional learning courses. By providing rail industry-accredited learning, the ARA can continuously enhance each course to ensure the ARA Professional Certificate in Rail remains relevant and supports the needs of learners and industry.

Will I get a job with Metro Trains Melbourne after the course?
The scholarship does not guarantee a role at Metro Trains Melbourne. However, the Professional Certificate in Rail will support applications at Metro Trains Melbourne and other rail industry organisations.

Why should I apply?
Whether you are passionate about technology, innovation or sustainability, a career in rail provides continuous career growth, exciting experiences, and the opportunity to be involved in moving the people of Australia.

When do applications close?
Scholarship applications close midnight 31 December 2024.

When will I find out if I am successful?
Successful applicants will be notified in early January 2025.

How do I apply?
If you are interested in applying for a scholarship, please click here.