The University of the Sunshine Coast’s Fraser Coast campus is introducing a new Business degree designed for those planning to work in the dynamic, fast-paced industry of tourism, leisure and events.

Applications are now open via QTAC to study the Bachelor of Business (Tourism, Leisure and Event Management) from Semester 1 next year.

USC Business academic Dr Vikki Schaffer said the new degree was a natural fit with the Fraser Coast region.

“Having the study program positioned within key tourism, leisure and events destinations enhances students’ opportunities to learn, to engage with industry and to see what they are learning in practice,” she said.

Dr Schaffer said the degree included field work in destinations such as Fraser Island and direct industry engagement to assist students develop a solid knowledge foundation and build strong career prospects.

“The industry employ millions of people in a diverse range of roles and the quality of employees’ skills is a key factor of productivity,” she said.

“USC has developed strong industry connections to ensure we stay not only current but are looking ahead to provide the relevant knowledge that graduates need as professionals.”

Fraser Coast Tourism Portfolio Councillor Stuart Taylor said he was looking forward to seeing graduates emerge career-ready to help the region continue to establish itself as one Queensland’s premier tourism centres.

“We have been calling for this as an industry for some time now and it is good to see the University of the Sunshine Coast investing in something that is such an important and viable part of our economy,” Cr Taylor said.

The degree includes an optional supervised 12-week internship and the opportunity for students to broaden their experience by studying a component overseas.

Other new programs to be offered at USC Fraser Coast next year include a Bachelor of Animal Ecology and first-year courses in degrees in Social Work, Counselling, Psychology and Social Science.

For more information go to www.usc.edu.au/learn or attend USC Fraser Coast’s Open Day on Sunday 18 September.

— Clare McKay