University strikes landmark deal
The University of Newcastle today signed an agreement with global education provider, Navitas, who are establishing the Newcastle International College on the Callaghan campus.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nicholas Saunders, said the college would be pivotal in the University's growth.
"The University has been working to grow its student numbers. However, in an increasingly competitive market, it is vital that we increase the number of international students coming to Newcastle."
International student numbers at Newcastle have grown over the past five years by almost 30 per cent. Onshore international enrolments now comprise approximately 15 per cent of total enrolments, but this remains below the sector average, which stands at about 20 per cent.
"Working with Navitas as it establishes Newcastle International College will expand the base of international students to the University across a broad range of our programs," Professor Saunders said.
The college will provide programs to international students across a number of disciplines. Successful completion will enable graduates to progress directly to the second year of a university level program.
Navitas Chief Executive Officer, Rod Jones, said the learning model was based on the principle that students who did not qualify for university at the time of initial application were often able to succeed in the right learning environment and with academic support.
"The Navitas model has worked very successfully in Australia and overseas to help international students succeed. Research shows that Navitas students' academic performance is as strong, if not stronger, as international students who are accepted directly to university," Mr Jones said.
Navitas is Australia's largest private education provider. Navitas' Australian university partners include Macquarie, Curtin, Griffith and Deakin universities.
Professor Saunders said the University of Newcastle was very fortunate to have the opportunity to work in association with an education provider held in such high regard by the sector and its students.
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