Deakin breaks into the top 10 for sports courses

DEAKIN University has finished ninth in a worldwide university ranking of the delivery of sports-related subjects.

The Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings were announced last week, with Deakin rising in this category from 15th in 2019 and 30th and 2018.

The university’s Centre for Sport Research co-director Dr Natalie Saunders said the Waurn Ponds campus had been central to Deakin’s improvement in the area.

“The quality of the staff and teaching has always been of the highest standard. The improved facilities of the Reach building and Waurn Ponds Sports Precinct have support staff being able to teach with the most up to date equipment and technology.

“This then ensures that students are being taught with contemporary skills necessary for the current sports industry.”

Deakin has five campuses, but just under half their sport-related courses run at Waurn Ponds.

Dr Saunders said the Elite Sports Precinct at the campus gave students valuable access to elite athletes.

“In addition, having facilities that allows Deakin to engage with community groups and sporting clubs, such as the Geelong Cats, Barwon Sports Academy or Geelong Cricket club to name a few, increases the exposure for students to athletes and sports groups to facilitate work integrated learning of the highest standards.”

Deakin deputy vice-chancellor (education) Professor Liz Johnson said the ranking reflected Deakin’s contribution in the field.

“I would like to honour all our bright minds, the thinkers and innovators here at Deakin who are passionate about ensuring our students benefit from the very best research and teaching experience, and acknowledge that our communities and society as a whole benefit from our innovative research breakthroughs.”

Deakin was also ranked 29th worldwide for universities under 50 years old.