The University Reviews its Academic Programs

Friday 6 May 2005

The University of Newcastle Academic Senate has been working through a subject and degree review to maintain the high level of academic quality, enhance efficiencies and create more flexibility for students.

President of Academic Senate, Professor Linda Connor says while the scale and scope of the current revision is comparatively large, it is something all universities do on an ongoing basis to make sure what is being offered is up to date and of the greatest value to students.

"Subjects found to have very low enrolments for several years have been reviewed and in many cases removed. Similar degrees in some cases have been combined. For example the Bachelor of Applied Information Technology, B of Information Science and B of Information Technology have been rolled into the new Bachelor of Information Technology with a range of majors," said Professor Connor.

"Arrangements will be in place so that all students can complete the degrees they are enrolled in, or choose to transfer to the new degree structure where applicable."

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders says, "A university has to operate as efficiently and effectively as it can while providing academic subjects that are high quality, well delivered and are relevant to the particular degree and the student’s career path."

Professor Saunders says, "Following this review, the University of Newcastle will have 55 undergraduate degrees on offer in 2006 and a choice of almost 1500 subjects within those degree programs."

"The University of Newcastle has a strong ongoing commitment to educational excellence and innovation in Health, Education, Arts, Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Built Environment, Law and Business," said the Vice-Chancellor.

For interview contact the Vice Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders on 02 49215101.