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USC leads the way internationally
International University Conference being held on the Coast - April 19 to 23
April 19, 2004
The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is leading the way in building networks with universities around the world.
USC will hold an International Partners' Conference to strengthen relationships with 22 overseas universities and discuss opportunities of working together.
During the five-day conference, USC will host 29 academics and international relations staff from universities in the USA, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Norway, Italy, Fiji and Malaysia.
All the universities who are attending have pre-existing relationships with USC and provide student and staff exchanges as well as international research opportunities.
The Sunshine Coast will be showcased to overseas students as the number one place to live and study in Australia.
USC International Relations spokesperson, Professor Robert Elliot said the conference is an important opportunity to promote the University internationally and to focus the attention of University staff and students on the advantages of international study and collaboration.
"The conference enables the discussion of the changing nature of and focus of university education in a global context," Professor Elliot said.
"The University of the Sunshine Coast is committed to offering it's students more opportunities for an international element in their education and to providing high quality education to international students, hence the interest in this conference," he said.
"The range of delegates attending the conference demonstrates the level of interest overseas institutions have in wanting to connect with the University of the Sunshine Coast," he said.
The Coast's own students will also benefit from the conference.
"Through events such as this, we are building a network of opportunities for our local students to study overseas."
"We have an excellent Outward Exchange program that enables students to enhance their education through a semester studying abroad," he said.
"A course at USC doesn't mean three years spent on the Coast. Our students could end up studying in Japan, America or Norway. For a small university we really can offer our students the world," Professor Elliot said.
USC External Relations Officer Kylie McKenzie works closely with local schools, talking to students about the various options of university study.
"Being able to offer local students the chance to enrol in a degree that includes overseas travel and study is important. It is one of the reasons why students don't have to move to Brisbane or interstate for quality higher education," Ms McKenzie said.
"The University can open many doors for students on the Sunshine Coast and offer a world of opportunity right here on our doorstep," she said.