CQU will enhance its national network of campuses by more than doubling its teaching and learning space in Sydney’s CBD.

The Rockhampton-based University has acquired 11 floors at 400 Kent Street to meet the rapidly growing demand for its programs, expanding on its nearby operations (across the road at 333 Kent Street) to accommodate up to 6500 students and staff.

“Sydney is the fastest growing of our 11 campuses and learning sites. Our increased presence in the CBD adds value to the services we can offer. Plus this is where students want to be, want to live and want to work,” explained CQU Vice Chancellor John Rickard. CQU Sydney already caters to some 4000 mostly international undergraduate and postgraduate students. It recently introduced a unique program, which provides enhanced support services to distance-based domestic students who live in the Sydney area.

“Our expanded service at Kent Street makes CQU more accessible, convenient and supportive to students especially working professionals and those who choose to study by distance. We understand the lifestyle needs of people working here in the city. They may live outside the city and study on their PCs, but they often want a face-to-face encounter and a truly user-friendly environment – that’s what we intend to offer,” added Professor Rickard.

A total of 9636 sqm at 400 Kent will be converted as early as July to suit computer labs, tutorial rooms, student recreation lounges, a library and videoconference facilities according to Phil Hancock, Director of the University’s Division of Facilities Management. The space, leased for 12 years, has capacity for 2500 students. “400 Kent Street will be modern and designed to handle CQU graduate students in a space that’s very different from the usual university facility,” said Mark Skinner, Chairman and CEO of Campus Group Holdings, which provides campus management services to CQU.

In 2002 CQU moved to 333 Kent Street from the Imperial Arcade to accommodate growing student demand. At the time Queensland Premier Peter Beattie said the University’s growing presence in New South Wales demonstrated how progressive universities like CQU have leadership roles in making education more accessible to more students.

Rockhampton-based CQU started its international student operations in Sydney in 1994 in a joint venture with Campus Group Holdings. It has other Australian International Campuses in Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast.

The Architect’s impression of the new Sydney campus will be on display in the foyer of the CQU Rockhampton Library (Building 10) after Easter.

Images: A photo of 400 Kent Street and an artist's impression of the frontage.