This subject requires on campus attendance. Refer to Additional Requirements for more information.
Separation Principles and Processes
UndergraduateTAS-ZAS2262025
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 14 weeks
- Start dates
- 24 Feb 2025
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Separation Principles and Processes
About this subject
Upon completion of this subject, the student should be able to:
- Explain the chemical and physical principles and processes relating to the separation industries.
- Apply chemistry knowledge, relevant to industry, in a practical setting.
- Analyse industry relevant separation principles and processes such as adsorption, distillation, filtration and extraction.
- Evaluate industry challenges and opportunities to propose improvements and innovations.
- Module 1: Introduction & Chemistry Concepts
- Module 2: Physical Properties of Matter
- Module 3: Organic Chemistry
- Module 4: Separation Techniques: Evaporation; Sublimation; Centrifugation.
- Module 5: Separation Techniques: Crystallisation/Precipitation; Filtration; Decantation; Solvent Extraction
- Module 6: Separation Techniques: Simple & Fractional Distillation; Magnetic Separation
- Module 7: Process Charting; Separation & Chemistry: Alcohol & Beverage Production
- Module 8: Separation & Chemistry: Oils & Essential Oils
- Module 9: Separation & Chemistry: Dairy Industry
- Module 10: Problem Solving Techniques for Assessment 3
- Module 11: Separation & Chemistry: Water Treatment
- Module 12: Connecting Chemistry and Separation Principles & Processes in Industry
- Module 13: Continuing Your Learning Journey in Separation Principles & Processes
Chemical and physical separation principles underpin many industries of the modern world. In this subject you will extend your knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of substances and their interactions. Through laboratory-based and other activities you will investigate separation principles and how they apply to processes such as distillation, extraction, adsorption and filtration in a variety of industries. You will consider complex problems as well as the challenges and opportunities relevant to the application of these processes in industry.
In conjunction with the discipline theory, this subject builds on concepts of learning through practice in Year 1 of study by introducing you to more complex learning experiences. You will be introduced to:
- discipline-based skills and knowledge in dynamic practice situations. This will include authentic and purposeful, industry-related experiences
- concepts of managing effective relationships and communicating with others
- the development and use of adaptive leadership skills and how these skills relate to innovative and entrepreneurial practice
- the nature of responsible, accountable and reflective workplace skills, and creative and critical thinking relevant to para-professional practice.
You will exercise self-awareness, initiative and judgement to manage yourself and professional relationships effectively. The application of tacit knowledge and capabilities will be reflected in a Practice Manual.
- Separation Process Investigation and Explanation (30%)
- Separation Industry Problem (Wicked Problem) (40%)
- Separation in the Laboratory (30%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
Wherever you are, the University of Tasmania brings its island campus to you through a growing range of online programs across art and design, business, education, health, science, sustainability, technology, and more. It’s never too late to switch things up. Kickstart that career you’ve been dreaming about, or upskill for the one you’re in. You’ll also become a part of the world's leading university on climate action.
Learn more about UTAS.
Explore UTAS courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 20
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 19
Entry requirements
Prior study
You must either have successfully completed the following subject(s) before starting this subject, or currently be enrolled in the following subject(s) in a prior study period; or enrol in the following subject(s) to study prior to this subject:
Please note that your enrolment in this subject is conditional on successful completion of these prerequisite subject(s). If you study the prerequisite subject(s) in the study period immediately prior to studying this subject, your result for the prerequisite subject(s) will not be finalised prior to the close of enrolment. In this situation, should you not complete your prerequisite subject(s) successfully you should not continue with your enrolment in this subject. If you are currently enrolled in the prerequisite subject(s) and believe you may not complete these all successfully, it is your responsibility to reschedule your study of this subject to give you time to re-attempt the prerequisite subject(s).
Additional requirements
- Attendance requirements - Labs/field trips - Students need to attend a 2-day workshop in Launceston.
- Other requirements - Teaching Arrangement: Online modules, Tutorials 1-2 hours per week, 2-day Laboratory Workshop in Launceston.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Single subject FAQs
What’s a single subject?
Single subjects are the individual components that make up a degree. With Open Universities Australia, you’re able to study many of them as stand-alone subjects, including postgraduate single subjects, without having to commit to a degree.
Each of your subjects will be held over the course of a study term, and they’ll usually require 10 to 12 hours of study each week. Subjects are identified by a title and a code, for example, Developmental Psychology, PSY20007.
How can I use single subjects to get into a full degree?
First, find the degree that you would like to study on our website.
If that degree allows entry via undergraduate subjects, there will be information about this under the Entry Requirements section. You will find a list of 2-4 open enrolment subjects you need to successfully complete to qualify for admission into that qualification.
Once you pass those subjects, you will satisfy the academic requirements for the degree, and you can apply for entry.
Our student advisors are here to help you take that next step, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re ready! We’ve also made it easier to figure out the right way to get started on our pathways page.
Can anyone help me choose a subject?
Our student advisors are more than happy to help you plan your online study. Get in touch with an advisor by:
How do I pay for my subjects?
You can pay up front with your credit card, or you may be eligible for a HELP loan from the Australian government depending on your citizenship status and where you’ll live during your studies.
For more information about how to pay for your studies visit our fees page or contact a student advisor.
How do I enrol?
When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Enrol now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI) during this process.
Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.
If you get stuck at any time, reach out to us and we’ll talk you through it.
You can also take a look at our online self-service enrolling instructions.
When is the cut-off date for enrolling?
Close of enrolment times vary between universities and subjects. You can check the cut-off dates for upcoming study terms by visiting key dates.