University high on the agenda in Port Macquarie

Monday 31 October 2005

Judging by early figures on applications for degree programs offered at the University of Newcastle's Port Macquarie campus, there is keen interest from people in the region.

The University's first round of statistics from the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) indicate there is strong demand for degree programs in the mid North Coast region.

Speaking from the University of Newcastle today, Vice Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders, said it was very exciting to see the university opportunities being embraced by local people. Professor Saunders said that from a modest start in 2005 with two undergraduate programs (Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Applied Information Technology) and the University's adult enabling program (Open Foundation) on offer, the range of programs will increase for 2006 and then expand from there.

"We are delighted with the initial figures," Professor Saunders said. "They show that overall demand for University places in Port Macquarie has increased by 76%," he said.

"The standout is the undergraduate Bachelor of Business which will commence in 2006. Demand for this program has been very strong," Professor Saunders said. "Obviously there has been a need for this area of study in the region."

"As well there has been a strong response to the Graduate Diploma in Education (Primary) which will also be offered in the region for the first time in 2006. And the Open Foundation program (by distance) is attracting a lot of interest once again," he said.

"A particular area of interest for mid North Coast residents is the opportunity to retrain to become a Secondary Teacher. Two Design and Technology teacher education programs to start in 2006 with specialisations in Food Technology and Computer Studies, are aimed at people seeking to retrain as teachers and offer attractive academic credit provisions for previous qualifications and experience.

"There has also been a substantial increase in the applications for the Bachelor of Nursing.

"However, it's not too late for people who are considering University study at Port Macquarie and haven't made an application. There is an avenue for submitting a late application and also taking advantage of the "Change of Preference" process that is available to all UAC applicants in early January before the Main Round Offers are made on 18th January.

"Overall, it is an exciting picture for the University of Newcastle's Port Macquarie campus and also for the people of the region. They have the benefit of quality University education provided in their local region and are responding positively to the opportunities on offer," he added.

To provide assistance for people considering University study at the Port Macquarie TAFE/University campus or needing advice about late application or the Change of Preference Procedure, an Information Evening (TAFE/University Pathways Information Evening) will be held on Wednesday, 9th November at the Campus (located in Widderson Street, Port Macquarie). The evening will commence at 6.30pm and will be held in Restaurant 1 - C Block.

Further enquiries about the TAFE/University Pathways Information Evening can be made by telephoning Pat Chipchase on 6586 2295