Students prepare to begin studies at Gold Coast campus

Danielle Petersen and Janice Bell are among several hundred students who will begin their studies at Southern Cross University’s new Gold Coast campus in the coming weeks.

Robina-based Danielle Petersen will start the new Bachelor of Business and Tourism Management, while Coolangatta local Janice Bell will undertake a Bachelor of Laws.

Originally from Rockhampton, Danielle has relocated to the Gold Coast to study and said she was excited about beginning her course.

“I chose this course because it’s so diverse - I’m interested in working internationally so it will open up a broad range of job opportunities,” said Danielle.

“I like the futuristic feel of the new campus and I love the Gold Coast –it’s a beautiful place with so much to offer and a great place to study.

“I can’t wait to get into classes at the new campus – and some of my favourite surf breaks are just around the corner, which is even better.”

Orientation kicks off at the new $20 million Gold Coast campus on February 15, with classes due to start on February 22. The new campus will be officially opened by the Hon Julia Gillard MP, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, and Minister for Social Inclusion on Wednesday, February 17.

Located 400-metres from North Kirra Beach, key features of the new campus include a student services hub, designed to provide a one-stop shop for student support and enquiries and the hi-tech fourth floor library, offering stunning views of the ocean and Gold Coast Hinterland.

The new campus offers undergraduate degrees in business, convention and event
management, international tourism management and law and paralegal studies. Courses in secondary and early childhood education, occupational therapy, social science, sport management, nursing and midwifery are available at SCU Lakeside, at Caloola Drive, Tweed Heads and SCU Riverside, Brett Street, Tweed Heads.

Janice Bell completed the first year of a Bachelor of Legal and Justice Studies at Southern Cross University last year before transferring to a Bachelor of Laws, which she will begin at the new Gold Coast campus.

“The best thing about Southern Cross University is that the classes are small and all the teachers know your name - and now it’s all just five minutes from home.

“My young daughter doesn’t understand the importance of study yet, so I hope my positive experiences studying will inspire her to go to university one day too.”

Photo: Janice Bell (left) and Danielle Petersen are looking forward to starting classes at the the new Gold Coast campus (high resolution image available on request)