History and Mission of The Australian National University

This unique character was modified in 1960 when teaching faculties were added through amalgamation with the Canberra University College. The result was a university with two distinct parts: the Institute of Advanced Studies, comprising the research schools with research and graduate training responsibilities; and the School of General Studies (now known as The Faculties) comprising faculties with undergraduate and graduate teaching and research responsibilities. More recently, the Institute of the Arts has become a part of the ANU, adding yet another dimension to its structure. The mission of the University has evolved to reflect these changes. It sees its role as being to create and sustain one of the world's great research institutions, distinguished by outstanding teaching. Specifically, it aims to:

• engage in research, scholarship and teaching at the highest international standards;

• foster critical enquiry and an environment that strengthens Australia's capacity to undertake fundamental research and research on subjects of importance for Australia;

• provide postdoctoral, graduate and honours education at the highest international standards in all areas of the University's research activity;

• provide outstanding higher education courses, including courses appropriate to professional and other occupations, for Australian and international students which bring the students as close as possible to the frontiers of knowledge and scholarship;

• in the visual and performing arts which promote the highest standards of practice;

• sustain international links, and encourage collaborations which enable Australia to benefit from research in other countries and which make the scholarship and unique research resources of the University, and the expertise of its members, available to other universities and research institutions in Australia and overseas;

• encourage links which make the scholarship and research resources of the University accessible to the Australian community, industry and government; and

• contribute to education, culture, welfare and economic development in both within Australia generally and in the Australian Capital Territory and surrounding areas.