Student-centred

The foundation stones of UWS are opportunity and excellence: opportunity for people who, due to personal circumstances, might not otherwise have the chance to go to university, and excellence in the quality of learning to promote their talent and success. These core principles have helped many UWS students overcome adversity to reach career heights that have transformed their lives.

By addressing the needs of the whole student and embedding relevant components in all its courses, the University produces graduates equipped with the knowledge, skills and understanding to work in complex and multi-cultural environments. Their success is reflected in local employer demand for UWS graduates, who have a reputation for being adaptable and “work-ready”.

UWS places students at the centre of everything it does. Regardless of their background, it aims to set students up for life through a comprehensive network of academic support, social engagement and community interaction. A broad mix of courses across six campuses and a rigorous system of feedback and review have enabled UWS to view its activities through the eyes of its students, responding with ongoing change to improve their university experience.

Rich ethnic diversity is a hallmark of UWS, with students representing 170 nations. Many students come from families where English is not spoken at home, and more than half of all students are the first in their family to attend university. Many graduates will go on to take up leadership roles in Greater Western Sydney.

In keeping with the University’s core principle of opportunity, UWS has established a successful network of pathways for university entry, support programs and flexible learning options so that students can arrange their study around work and family commitments.

All these initiatives are designed to acknowledge diversity, prepare students for university life and to increase their chances of success once they get there by providing a solid foundation on which to advance academically with confidence.

UWS encourages and nurtures high achievers. These students can attain high academic standing through tailored advanced programs at undergraduate level, an honours year, or by going on to complete research higher degrees in specialist fields. Teaching is enriched by research and the scholarship of UWS academics whose specialist knowledge and industry experience ensure that students are up to date with the latest developments in their field.

Students gain an understanding of social justice issues confronting society.