University scholarships lure nation`s brightest

Fifteen of Australia's brightest students have been awarded scholarships that will see them financially supported for the duration of their study at The University of Queensland.

The Dean's Excellence Scholarships, which are awarded by the university's Faculty of Engineering, Physical Sciences and Architecture (EPSA), are aimed at encouraging and supporting talented students to engage in careers in engineering, physical sciences, planning and architecture.

EPSA Executive Dean Professor Stephen Walker said South-East Queensland's status as the most rapidly growing area in Australia meant engineers, scientists, planners and architects looked set to be in demand for some time to come.

"Graduates in these fields are needed to provide the expertise which will underpin continued growth in Australia, and the booming growth seen in South-East Queensland," Walker said.

"Locally, the South-East Queensland population is expected to rise to about 3.5 million people by 2021, so planners, scientists, architects and engineers will be essential in developing and managing the infrastructure required to cater for the expanding population."

Principally based on academic merit, the Dean's Excellence Scholarships are awarded to students who have completed their secondary studies with outstanding academic results.

Worth $5000 per year for the duration of the program, they are offered for degrees that include engineering, science, multimedia design, architecture, environmental management, information technology and regional and town planning.

A small number of the scholarships are also awarded to talented but socio-economically disadvantaged students to encourage tertiary participation from groups within the community who are traditionally under-represented in higher education and in these areas of study particularly.

Walker said the scholarships rewarded top students for their achievements to date, providing ongoing assistance to help them focus on their chosen programs and future careers.