Central Queensland's shortage of health professionals is driving the development of a new package of academic programs at CQUniversity.

Recently-arrived Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark Burton said research supports the need for new health and medical science programs in regional Queensland.

CQUniversity Music students are continuing their series of lunchtime concerts this week, with the first performances held on Tuesday.

See the events calendar for more details .

The State Government is fostering a collaborative approach between universities, schools and TAFEs, to raise interest in tertiary study across communities lacking a history of participation at a tertiary level.

That's according to Queensland's Office of Higher Education Executive Director Ian Kimber, who visited CQUniversity to help launch its expanded Outreach program this week (Tuesday May 25)

Mr Kimber said the State Government has a target for 75% of the State's adult population to hold tertiary qualifications by 2020 "and these kinds of Outreach programs are going to be very important in achieving these targets".

CQUniversity has announced ‘a renewed vigour' in the way it forms relationships with disadvantaged students in primary schools and beyond, to enable their progression as learners and to involve their families along the way.

Earlier and more intensive relationships, embedded with longstanding efforts, will help dismantle myths about higher education, creating cultural change, inspiration and aspiration.