THE future is looking bright for Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay students enrolling in one of the many programs on offer at the university – and it’s not too late to apply to study at CQU this year.

A strong demand for skilled professionals in the Mackay region has provided great opportunities for CQU Mackay students who are opting to combine work and study to enhance their learning and knowledge base in the job.

One such student success story is Lauren De Boni, who took a part time position as a trainee accountant at Whitson Watt Accounting 18 months into her study. Lauren believes her confidence and knowledge on the job has soared as a result.

"By working and studying at the same time my studies became a lot clearer due to the knowledge I was gaining from the practical side of the job" Miss De Boni said.

"I was also able to obtain assistance from fellow employees who had previously studied the same degree at CQU".

For those not already working and studying, the structure of many programs at CQU Mackay allow students to experience hands on, real work experience as part of their university commitments. The Bachelor of Engineering (Co-op), Information Technology (Co-op), and Learning Management and Nursing all include components and can be studied at CQU Mackay.

CQU Mackay Acting Head of Campus and lecturer, Peter Baxter, attributes the smaller class sizes and friendly approachable lecturers as a major contributor to student success at the campus.

"With the smaller class sizes in Mackay, if students have a problem, there is always someone who will have the time to assist them” Mr Baxter said.

"In addition to this, we have support staff ready to assist students with the challenge that university life presents, both academically and personally," he said.

It’s no wonder then that CQU graduates have continuously ranked ahead of national rates for obtaining jobs and securing salaries in 2006.

The Graduate Careers Council of Australia has found that 90.3% of graduates with a bachelor degree find full-time work within four months of finishing university – well above the national average of 82.4% (2005 survey). Similarly, the median starting salary of CQU bachelor degree graduates is $2000 to $3000 higher than the national average.

The Good Universities Guide 2006 echoes the same findings, documenting that no other Queensland university rates higher than CQU for positive graduate outcomes, and gives CQU a top rating (five stars) for graduate outcomes and above-average (four stars) ratings for graduate starting salaries and job success.

Claire Barry, Community Relations Officer, CQU Mackay points out that somewhere in between study, work and attending lectures, students need a break and like to enjoy the various social activities that are organised on campus.

"Throughout the year we hold student barbecues and special ‘stress less days’ to help the 800 on campus students cope with pending exams and assignments.

"The Conservatorium of Music is always on hand to provide fantastic entertainment which always creates great atmosphere at these events," she said.

Plans are well underway for a bumper orientation week at the end of February to mark the beginning of term one, but it’s not too late to change preference to or enroll for study at CQU Mackay starting in March this year . Potential students can call the campus on 4940. 7577 or come out to the campus and talk with any of the friendly staff.

Photo Caption: Lauren De Boni of Whitson Watt Accounting combined work and study at CQU Mackay giving her a better understanding of Accountancy, a better salary and better time management and organisational skills.