Chinese students come to SCU

More than 100 Chinese students will complete part of their studies at Southern Cross University over the next three years as part of a partnership with Dalian University and Changchun University in North-East China.

A representative of the universities, Mr Janson Chen, recently toured the Lismore, Coffs Harbour and Tweed Gold Coast campuses and surrounding region.

“We have been involved with Southern Cross University since last year. It is a great opportunity for our students to gain international experience and learn English,” Mr Chen said.

“The students are also able to experience different teaching structures.”

It is expected students will complete part of their studies in Information Technology and Tourism and Hospitality Management at the Coffs Harbour campus. Other students will study Tourism and Hospitality Management and Business at the Lismore campus.

By 2006, it is expected there will be up to 160 students coming to the university’s three campuses to study.

Mr Chen said studying at SCU opened up many opportunities for the students.

“They have more opportunities to get employment in other countries, while in China their salaries double if they have that extra experience.”

Mr Barry Wilks, Head of School of Multimedia and Information Technology, said the visit by Mr Chen was a great opportunity to showcase what SCU and the region had to offer.

“Having these students at Southern Cross University adds to the international flavour of the campuses and provides additional experience for our students,” Mr Wilks said.

“It also opens up further opportunities for teaching and student exchanges and encourages lasting networks.”

Photo caption: SCU senior lecturer Dr Bruce Armstrong (left) and Professor San Murugesan (right) show Janson Chen around SCU’s Coffs Harbour campus.