UQ’s physical science student enrolments increase

First year enrolments in Earth Sciences, Mathematics and Physics courses at The University of Queensland have shown a significant increase this year.

Acting Head of the School of Physical Sciences Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop said the figures after the first week of semester were very encouraging.

“Looking back over the past five years, the most noticeable increase is in Earth Sciences where enrolments in a first year geology course are more than double the 2002 figures.

“There’s currently a global shortage of geologists and geophysicists and a boom in the mining and minerals processing industries. The demand for trained professionals is high and 80 percent of our Earth Sciences graduates find immediate employment.”

Professor Rubinsztein-Dunlop said first year enrolment numbers for Mathematics and Physics courses had also shown an overall increase.

“Enrolments in a first year physics course in biological systems are 15 percent higher than last year and several first year maths courses have benefited from an increased intake in UQ’s Engineering program.”

Professor Rubinsztein-Dunlop said employment prospects for mathematics and physics graduates were also excellent.

“In recent times there has been an upsurge in the number of mathematicians employed by banking, finance and insurance institutions and our physics graduates find a wide range of employment opportunities in pharmaceutical industries, government departments and schools and universities.”

For further information contact Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop on 07 3365 3405 or Lynda Flower 07 3346 9935 mobile 0427 158 969.