Research Landscape – Our Strengths
- Research concentrations
- University-wide research themes
- Future UWS research strengths
- Research training
- Research management
The research landscape at UWS is interdisciplinary and collaborative. The University is responsive to the contemporary social, economic and environmental challenges in Greater Western Sydney and orientated to global challenges.
We strive to make our research applied and relevant to what we teach and to industry, business, community and government of our region and beyond. UWS also promotes specific basic research in areas that correspond to the academic strengths of individuals and research groups.
Research at UWS is defined as critical and creative activity undertaken on a systematic basis in order to extend knowledge and understanding and/or solve practical or theoretical problems. The University’s research performance has shown continued growth against all key indicators.
The University of Western Sydney’s research plan 2012-2014 presents our research strategies and targets. The University is mid-way through a 10 year investment program ensuring that excellence in research is strongly supported.
Earlier documents articulating the research vision of UWS include:
- Research Framework 2009-2013 (PDF, 92Kb)
- Themes in the Landscape: Research at UWS 2005-2008 (PDF, 209Kb)
- Research Plan 2004-2008 (PDF, 714Kb)
- Research Landscape Report (PDF, 144Kb)
Research concentrations
UWS has a number of research concentrations which provide the University with research strength.
As part of our ongoing commitment to quality assurance, the performance of research concentrations is regularly subject to expert external review.
Future UWS research strengths
Emerging research concentrations are identified and University Research Groups are supported and developed in the schools.
Research training
Research higher education at the University of Western Sydney achieves the complex expectations of students, employers, and scholars in the 21st century. Graduates are equipped with a portfolio of skills and knowledge, enabling them to develop their capabilities to the highest potential for personal growth and fulfilment, for effective participation in the workforce, and for making constructive contributions to society.
Research management
An integrated approach to research and consultancy is ensured through the close association of Research Services and UWS Innovation under the leadership of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research).

