Inspired students
ANU aims to further develop a community of scholars in which inspired students, both undergraduate and postgraduate, interact with staff in a research-led environment. As such, research and education are linked, mutually reinforcing each other. A unique element of the University, and our national role, is that a large percentage of ANU students come from locations outside the ACT, both nationally and internationally. The ANU student population in 2020 will be characterised by:
- high achievement
- accessing the University through effective pathways for students from a range of backgrounds
- a high percentage of postgraduate students (by Australian standards)
- a high percentage of students from locations outside the ACT
- students, at all levels, experiencing the research culture of the University.
Because of our location in Canberra, and the focus on a research-led educational philosophy, ANU will always have a relatively small student population by Australian standards. However, as Australia grows and higher education participation rates increase, ANU can also continue to increase our student population in a controlled manner at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A larger student population will provide the University greater critical mass, offer students greater breadth of programs and enhanced resources. This growth will also allow ANU to broaden participation in higher education and research.
Some measures of success
- By 2013, all ANU programs will have clearly articulated the unique research-led elements of their education offerings.
- ANU will aim to increase both undergraduate and postgraduate student numbers at rates that are sustainable and will not compromise quality.
- ANU will further develop the provision and use of a diverse range of entry mechanisms for students. This flexibility will allow a broad range of well-prepared students to have access to the ANU educational experience. A clear summary of existing programs will be developed in 2011 with a follow-up assessment in 2014 to demonstrate enhanced use of such pathways.
- ANU will aim for at least 40 per cent of our students to be postgraduate by 2020 (compared with PG (total) = 35 per cent, HDR = 14 per cent, PG Cwk = 21 per cent in 2011).
