Scholarship incentives of up to $60,000 are set to bring new students to Fraser Coast and Gympie to study at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s regional campuses next year.

Applications are open for Destination Australia Scholarships, with successful students receiving up to $15,000 each year, for up to four years, to complete USC degrees in Nursing Science, Primary Education and Social Work, or a PhD in the field of environmental or marine science.

USC has again been successful in securing scholarships through the latest round of the Federal Government initiative, designed to attract and support students to study in regional locations.

USC Pro-Vice Chancellor (Engagement) Professor Joanne Scott said the scholarships provided generous financial support for those who might not otherwise take up higher education without help with study and relocation costs.

“We’ve already witnessed the difference this program has made to more than 30 students who started undergraduate degrees and PhDs at USC Fraser Coast and Gympie over the past few years, with the help of a Destination Australia scholarship,” she said.

Professor Scott said three PhD candidates who received first-round scholarships were now engaged in exciting local research with global impact, providing new insights into whales, turtles, sharks and endangered sawfish.

“We are pleased to be able to offer another further Higher Degree by Research scholarship this year to continue to expand USC’s research capacity in marine ecology at Fraser Coast, which is directly aligned with the region’s priorities.”

At USC Fraser Coast, scholarships are also available to full-time students enrolling in a three-year Bachelor of Education or Nursing Science, or a four-year Social Work degree. At Gympie, new students studying full-time in Nursing Science are eligible to apply.

Professor Scott said successful applicants would have the opportunity to benefit from high-quality teaching, learning and research opportunities, while experiencing the wonderful lifestyles the two regions offered.

“The Destination Australia initiative also adds to our regional communities by bringing new people to the area, who can go on to contribute their skills, knowledge and research to help meet local needs.”

Funds from the scholarship can be used to help with relocation costs, rent and household bills, groceries, textbooks and other study needs. For details and conditions go to www.usc.edu.au/destinationaustralia