The University of the Sunshine Coast has officially arrived in the Moreton Bay Region.

On Monday 8 January, USC moved into the university campus previously run by QUT on Tallon Street, Caboolture, and staff are now preparing for its first intake of students at the start of Semester 1 in late February.

USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said USC would continue the tradition that QUT established over the past 15 years of engaging with the Caboolture community and offering relevant programs.

“As a regional university, USC has a very good understanding of what regional communities like Caboolture want and need,” Professor Hill said.

“And when you look at the geography of it, we’re the logical institution for the Caboolture community because of our proximity.

“This will be the closest of our campuses to our headquarters at Sippy Downs and that will provide opportunities for our current Caboolture students to use the facilities of both campuses, which will be convenient for them and cut down on travel time.”

The University held a staff expo during the week to welcome former QUT staff who have transferred to USC.

USC Caboolture will hold an Orientation Day for students on Monday 19 February, featuring fun activities, an official welcome, campus tours and study information sessions.

Available study programs at the campus include a suite of degrees in Business, Creative Industries, Education, Nursing Science and Midwifery, and a bridging program called Tertiary Preparation Pathway.

— Terry Walsh