23 April 1999

UQ ranked in top 20 universities in Asia
The University of Queensland has been ranked in the top 20 in the latest list of the best universities in the Asia region.

UQ outperformed all other Queensland universities with an overall ranking of 19 out of 79 universities reviewed by Asiaweek magazine.

The review assessed the quality of students and teachers, research outcomes, financial resources and academic reputation.

The high ranking in the Asia region follows the University of Queensland being named Australia's 1998-99 University of the Year by the Good Universities Guide.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Hay, said the survey results highlight the University of Queensland's growing reputation as a world class university.

"The University of Queensland is recognised as one of the best universities in the Asia region," Professor Hay said.

Asian students currently represent 65 percent of the 2320 overseas students who are enrolled in undergraduate and post-graduate studies at the University of Queensland.

Despite the economic downturn in Asia, UQ has experienced an 18 percent increase in the number of Asian students over the past two years (1997-99).

The largest areas of growth have been Indonesia (up 27 percent), Singapore (up 36 percent), Taiwan (up 72 percent) and India (up 130%).

"Our strong academic reputation and world class research will ensure that the University of Queensland continues to attract more overseas students, bringing major benefits to the Queensland and Australian economies," Professor Hay said.

For further information please contact:
Anthony Havers Ph: (07) 3365 2846
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Trevor Grigg Phone: (07) 3365 7366