The University of Newcastle, Australia

More than 700 students will celebrate finishing their studies at the Central Coast campus tomorrow with graduation ceremonies being held across the day.

Recognising the unique campus partnership between the University, TAFE NSW - Hunter Institute and the Central Coast Community College, students across the three institutions will gather together at Ourimbah to celebrate their academic achievement.

Pro Vice-Chancellor and Director of the Central Coast campuses, Professor Stephen Crump, said graduation is one of the key highlights of the year.

"Undertaking studies at a University, TAFE or Community College level involves a commitment over a considerable amount of time," Professor Crump said.

"Each person graduating should have a well-deserved sense of achievement at having successfully completed their chosen program. I congratulate all graduates and wish them well for the future."

Of the 702 students graduating tomorrow, 431 are graduating from University of Newcastle programs, 254 have completed TAFE qualifications and a further 17 are graduating from the Central Coast Community College.

Graduation highlights

Ourimbah resident Christopher Roberts will be awarded the University Medal. The Bachelor of Science (Honours) student displayed a consistent record of exceptional academic achievement during his studies in marine science. His Honours project looked at aspects of the rehabilitation works at Swansea bridge, in particular the impact on fish stocks.

The first graduates of the University of Newcastle's Bachelor of Oral Health will be presented with their degrees. The 46 graduates are the first in New South Wales to complete a degree program specific to oral health. Many of the students completed work placements in the local area health service. These students are now qualified dental hygienists, and many have secured positions in clinics across the Central Coast.

Five students will be conferred as Doctors of Philosophy (PhD), including three marine scientists from the School of Environmental and Life Sciences and researchers from the School of Humanities and Social Science and the School of Psychology.

Four graduation ceremonies will be held across Friday 15 February at the Central Coast campus (Ourimbah).