Head of school sad to see science go but students to benefit
The memorandum of understanding that will see Bachelor of Science students enrol in The University of Newcastle but complete selected units at Avondale is a “strong option,” says the head of the School of Science and Mathematics at the university college. However, the loss of the course saddens Dr Lynden Rogers, who explains his personal connection to the course in this interview with Public Relations Officer Brenton Stacey.
Science is a course with long history at Avondale. The list of science alumni is impressive. So, why has Avondale stopped accepting enrolments into the Bachelor of Science?
Over recent decades, universities across Australia have lost full-time science and mathematics staff due to declining student numbers, and Avondale has been no exception, despite the acknowledged quality of our product. Rather than simply discontinue the Bachelor of Science or allow our high standard to slip, we sought another alternative; a link with The University of Newcastle. We enjoy the respect of Newcastle, largely because of the academic success of a considerable number of Avondale science graduates who have completed higher degrees by research at Newcastle.
How does Avondale benefit from the memorandum of understanding with The University of Newcastle?
The University of Newcastle is a forward-looking tertiary option, well resourced in the areas of science and mathematics. Its newly-structured Bachelor of Science is impressive, in both its quality and its flexibility.
Why would a prospective student choose to study some science units at Avondale? What do we offer that Newcastle does not?
The University of Newcastle has recognised the quality of Avondale’s science units and has been happy to extend academic credit to a number of units. Furthermore, Avondale’s science classes are comparatively small. This means students have close access to quality lecturers and mentors who get to know them quickly, provide the help they need immediately, and seek to challenge and extend them in every way. Furthermore, Avondale’s science “lectures” are much more interactive than in larger learning contexts.
As Head of the School of Science and Mathematics, and as a long-serving staff member, what is your personal reaction to the MoU?
While it is sad to lose our own Bachelor of Science, the MoU with The University of Newcastle represents a strong option for students wanting to commence a quality Bachelor of Science but also wishing to enjoy the “Avondale experience” which has meant so much to so many over the years.
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