Central Queensland University's level of service makes it distinctive among Australian universities because of the emphasis it places on student outcomes, graduate success and quality teaching.

That is according to a recent report by Hobsons, the editor and publisher of Australia's only university ratings publication, The Good Universities Guide.

CQU has campuses in the key regional centres of Rockhampton, Mackay, Gladstone, Emerald and Bundaberg, as well as a Noosa Hub, and is known for leadership in distance and flexible studies.

The University has also been a leader in establishment of capital city campuses for international students, with operations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Central Queensland University is incorporating more Work Integrated Learning (WIL), in its bachelor degree programs than ever before, demonstrating its commitment to producing work-ready graduates.

Including this work experience, which could be paid or unpaid, in the University's programs enables students to learn more for, and about, their intended careers in a more ‘hands-on' way.

This can result in students being offered employment even before graduating, through employer recognition of their acquisition of valuable broader professional practice knowledge, skills and attributes.

According to David Jorgensen, Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning for Sciences, Engineering and Health, CQU students who study in these programs achieve an edge over other graduates because they have already established relationships with employers.

"The incorporation of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) into educational programs, particularly through structured work placements, significantly strengthens graduates' capabilities to perform to, and even exceed, employer expectations. This is contrary to perceptions that graduates generally do not perform to these expectations, needing significant time with an employer before becoming a productive and worthwhile employee."

Central Queensland University is also giving high school students the chance to get a headstart on their career by studying university courses while still in school.

CQU Vice-Chancellor Professor John Rickard recently (Sept 10) launched the Start Uni Now (SUN) program. The program encourages students in years 10, 11 and 12 to undertake individual university courses to start their university career and possibly graduate early.

Central Queensland University offers award-winning programs designed for adults who want to change their lives but who may feel that they are not suited to participate in a university education.

The bridging programs, also known as preparatory programs, have helped over 10,000 people overcome their doubts and led to successful university study, new careers and a better future. All three programs are free, including the supply of study materials.

STEPS (Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies) is available on campus and by distance and can be finished in as little as 12 weeks.

WIST is a home-based, self-paced bridging course in English, Science, Mathematics and Computing especially designed and programmed for women.

TEP (Tertiary Entry Program) prepares Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for successful participation in undergraduate university courses at CQU.

CQU offers programs in areas such as built environment and design, business, creative and performing arts, education, engineering and technology, health and recreation, humanities and social sciences, information technology, primary industries and environmental sciences.

CQU is also focusing its research with launch of 3 flagships - Healthy Communities, Resourcing Queensland and the Intercultural Education Institute.