Top achievers want more from education

Top performing undergraduate students want more from their Australian university education.

This was the view presented by five MasterClass students who joined with Murdoch staff and guests from industry, government and event sponsor Fortis Consulting in a recent debate to explore The Idea of a University.

Daniel Bishop, Melissa Mulcahy, Patrick Hyslop, Oliver Berry and Brett Kessner said in future Australian universities should bring together cohorts of students from diverse backgrounds to focus their energies on solving complex, multi –faceted problems and better prepare them for the professional and personal challenges of work and life.

A panel comprised of Global Practice Leader of Gerard Daniels International, Alison Gaines, former Australian Ambassador to Croatia, Anna George, Murdoch Chancellor Terry Budge, MasterClass student Patrick Hyslop and Murdoch academics Professor Richard Nile and Dr Lubica Ucnik engaged with audience members in a vigorous discussion focused on the future purpose and direction of Australian universities, and the nature and quality of the student experience.

Murdoch’s MasterClass program allows high achieving students to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration while still enrolled as undergraduates. This year over 800 students were invited to join the program.  Over 70 stduents are currently registered in the MasterClass program, which offers interactive learning in small classes.

MasterClass was first launched in 2007 and since then 31 graduates have received their Postgraduate Certificate and enhanced their prospects in a wide range of careers

Associate Professor of Postgraduate & Professional Education Scott Gardner stated that in 2010 MasterClass would continue to offer more for students from a wide range of disciplines including a problem based, learning environment and a focus on creative leadership, personal and career development as defining themes for the program.

Photo left to right: MasterClass students Melissa Mulcahy, Oliver Berry and Patrick Hyslop