April 12, 2019

Council updated on Western Civilisation degree

Latest progress and developments discussed at UOW council meeting

The University of Wollongong (UOW) Council has received an update on latest developments regarding the Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation at its meeting at the Wollongong Campus on Friday 12 April 2019 .

Council welcomed an update on progress made since its last meeting on 15 February 2019 in establishing the School of Liberal Arts (SOLA).

In keeping with normal practice, Council received the unratified minutes from the last meeting of the Academic Senate and was apprised of specific deliberations regarding the new degree.

The Council was also advised of the legal action recently announced and commenced by the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU).

UOW Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Wellings CBE, advised the Council of the University’s intention to oppose the action. The University is confident that all decisions and actions taken in relation to the Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation were lawful and in accordance with University policies and processes.

Following the Council meeting UOW Chancellor, Ms Jillian Broadbent AC, confirmed her support for the partnership, the degree, for the Vice-Chancellor and the University Executive.

“I am comfortable that the decisions taken by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Wellings CBE, in relation to approving the Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation have been in accordance with University policies and in the best interests of the Institution.”

“I am very positive about the benefits that will accrue to the University and its students from the partnership with the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation. Our Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation will enhance the University existing courses and our strong reputation in Humanities overall.”

Work establishing the School of Liberal Arts and preparations to deliver the approved Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation for its first cohort of students in Autumn Session 2020 continues. 

(Image caption: UOW Chancellor, Ms Jillian Broadbent AC)