The University of Newcastle is bolstering efforts to reduce the national skills shortage by introducing a new maths bonus points scheme for students interested in studying engineering or science.

Students completing selected maths courses for the Higher School Certificate in 2007 will be eligible to receive up to four additional Universities Admission Index (UAI) points for the University of Newcastle in 2008.

The additional points can be used for the University's Bachelor of Science, Bachelor Engineering or combined degree programs including one of these components.

Professor Kevin McConkey, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), said maths was the key to mastering careers in engineering and science.

"This new scheme recognises students with strengths in mathematics and provides them with the opportunity to commence study for a career in engineering or science related fields," said Professor McConkey.

"The University is addressing the national shortage of engineers and scientists by producing work-ready graduates with the skills necessary to lead in these fields."

Professor McConkey said the University was committed to providing access for students to higher education.

"The maths bonus points will be in addition to the University's bonus scheme for regional students."

For the regional bonus scheme, four points are automatically added to Universities Admissions Centre applications for students from schools or TAFE colleges with postcodes in the Hunter, Central Coast, Central West, Northern Rivers, Mid-North Coast, New England, Western Plains and Broken Hill mail centres*.

Under the new maths bonus scheme, HSC students who studied:

• Mathematics (2 unit) and attained a result in Band 5 - 6 in their HSC will receive two bonus points; or
• Mathematics Extension 1 and attained a result in Band 3 - 4 in their HSC will receive four bonus points; or
• Mathematics Extension 2 will receive four bonus points.

Applications for on-campus study at the University of Newcastle must be lodged online through UAC at www.uac.edu.au. On-time applications close Friday 28 September 2007.