History
The history of the University of Newcastle, as for all great universities, has been characterised by leaders who have been willing to challenge the status quo and transform fields of education and research.
Since its foundation, the staff, students and leaders of the University have introduced unique ways of thinking and operating that have led to remarkable outcomes.
1951 - 1965: The early days
The University of Newcastle began as a college of the University of New South Wales. It opened in late 1951 and accepted its first students in 1952.
It was located at Tighes Hill—on the same site as the TAFE NSW Hunter Institute, then known as a Technical College. The staff and students of the Newcastle University college shared cramped conditions with their Technical College colleagues. Space was at such a premium that one lecturer's office was his car; another lecturer, Dr. Beryl Nashar, was accommodated with a flimsy partition in the typing pool.
The community had campaigned for a University since the 1940s. While the Newcastle University College offered a university education in the region, the community wanted more. They campaigned throughout the 50s to get it.
In 1962, the Vice-Chancellor of UNSW, Sir Philip Baxter, finally relented. Work began on transforming the fledgling college to a university in the full sense.
1996 - present: Technology brings change
This period of the University's history has seen fundamental changes to the technologies with which we teach and the nature of student experience. In 1997 The Forum was opened. At the time, it was the largest gymnasium in the area. In the early days of the University, team sports, particularly Rugby, were popular. The Vice-Chancellor and other senior staff members rarely missed a game, always showing up in the University colors. By the mid-nineties this had shifted; students continued to pursue fitness as part of their University experience, but now they did so on their own schedule.
This pattern has been repeated across the University, particularly in the provision of information services. The first Vice-Chancellor used to spend an hour every morning reading the Times in the Library now named in his honor: 11 am, regular as clockwork. Students are now more likely to be seen drinking coffee and accessing online course materials in one of several information commons, twenty-four hours a day. The first of our information commons, the Auchmuty Information Common, opened in 2003.
The 2004 fire in the Shortland Union building in retrospect seems a turning point: a signal of the changes to student life and presage of more to come.
Why study with us?
Choosing to study at the University of Newcastle can give you a competitive advantage with your future career. Here are the top reasons to study with us.
1. Study at a university ranked top 175 in the world
You will have access to world-class programs, inspiring and collaborative learning environments, and opportunities to put theory into practice with real-world experiences. Learn from our passionate and talented teaching staff who have strong industry connections and experience.
2. Gain additional post-study work opportunities
The Australian Government allows students who meet the study and skills criteria to stay temporarily in Australia after they complete their studies to gain valuable work experience in Australia. To promote in-demand industries and living and working in regional areas, you could be eligible for additional post-study work rights depending on the chosen degree, level of Australian study qualification and location*.
*For the most recent and up-to-date details, please refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or speak with your agent.
3. Build your professional networks and connect with our industry partners
We offer you the chance for practical work experience as part of your study, greater connection with local, regional and national industry partners, and the opportunity to grow your professional network. You can open more doors with us.
4. Experience more career opportunities and earn higher salaries
89.8% of our undergraduate and 93.3% of our postgraduates gain employment within four months and completing their studies. Our students start post-study work with higher salaries than the Australian average meaning you will have a better chance of success with us.
5. Study free from distraction in a welcoming setting
Newcastle and the Central Coast have the convenience and benefits of a big city, without the usual distractions from study. In Sydney, our strong industry partner connections benefit postgraduate study programs. Our campus environments enhance study effectiveness.
6. Engage in practical learning experiences while you study
Our focus on practical learning experiences is built into our study programs. It ensures you will be well prepared for work environments, and ready to take on new challenges.
7. Enjoy a more affordable Australian study experience
For study and living, Newcastle and the Central Coast are more affordable than most major cities in Australia. We also run workshops and classes to help you find part-time work while you study. With a range of international scholarships, there are many affordable ways to study with us.
8. Be part of a vibrant student community
Our community and domestic students love studying at our beautiful campuses. With friendly support and services teams, we help make your stay safe and secure, so you can focus on your study and have fun in Australia.
Among the world's best
- The University of Newcastle is a research-intensive University focused on improving the quality of life in our regions and around the globe. Our academics, students, and staff pursue innovative solutions to the world’s great challenges.
- Our Engineering – Mineral and Mining discipline has ranked at the top 30 in the world, for the third consecutive year, and our Nursing discipline is ranked in the world's top 50 in the 2019 QS World University Rankings by Subject list.
- The University has a total of 10 subjects ranked in the world’s top 200. The University is ranked top 8 in Australia for research ‘well above world standard’ by Excellence in Research Australia, 2015.
- These independent rankings are evidence of our commitment to excellence, purposeful research, uncommon innovation, and the highest standards in educational outcomes.
- Our performance on the world stage continues to improve as we move closer to realizing our vision of being global leaders in each of our spheres of achievement - equity, education, and research.
