The University of Adelaide reports it has achieved an operating surplus for 2011 of $66 million and has reinvested more than $90m, including cash reserves, in the development of capital infrastructure.
This University says the result continues a positive trend of recent years with “solid performances driven by prudent financial management and a clear strategic focus”.
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha says the outcome is due to careful growth in enrolments at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and an increase in research output.
In 2011, the University of Adelaide’s student enrolments reached 25,055 while funded research and research-related income increased to more than $225 million.
"The University remains in a strong financial position. It reflects our prudent management strategies in recent years and, pleasingly, we are now reaping the benefits of our capital infrastructure investment as major building projects are completed," says Prof McWha.
"It is critical that we have facilities commensurate with a Group of Eight research-intensive university. Our long-term investment in capital infrastructure has transformed the University’s physical presence.
"A record NHRMC funding result in 2011 reinforced our proven track record in research in Health Sciences and Sciences.
"On a per capita basis, we are doing extremely well with research funding income leading the nation. For a smaller institution, this is an immensely satisfying achievement and a great credit to the calibre of our staff."
The past year has seen a heightened focus on the University’s high-quality learning and teaching portfolio, with student co-creation a cornerstone of development in e-learning and other education initiatives.
"Last year, we hosted our inaugural Festival of Learning and Teaching and the response was overwhelming; from staff and students alike. The appetite to embrace new ideas in education and work collaboratively with students is both encouraging and inspiring," says Professor McWha.
Other highlights for 2011 included:
• A record number of offers made to potential students
• A record $44.8m in National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funding awarded University of Adelaide
• Hosting 170 students from the University of Canterbury following the earthquake in Christchurch
• Opening a $2.2m University dental clinic to service Whyalla and surrounding communities offering students valuable clinical experience in rural South Australia.
• Accreditation from the highly-regarded Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International for the University of Adelaide’s MBA program
There were many staff and student accolades, including:
• Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha is awarded an AO for services to higher education
• Plant scientist, Professor Peter Langridge is named South Australia’s 2011 Scientist of the Year
• Nobel Laureate and University Professor of Literature John Coetzee wins the Arts Award in the South Australian of the Year awards
• Five University researchers and one affiliate are named Young Tall Poppies of Science
Updated 5 June 2012