Dear students,
I extend a warm welcome to new and returning students joining the Faculty of Business and Economics and the University of Melbourne for 2024.
The start of each new academic year holds much potential for advancement, learning and knowledge-sharing. This year, however, is very special for our community as it marks the Faculty’s 100th anniversary. The Faculty was established in late 1924 and the Bachelor of Commerce degree commenced the following year. To reflect this, our centenary events will begin in October and roll into next year.
After 100 years, we have much to celebrate and reflect on, including highlighting trailblazing alumni and research projects. Our student population has changed greatly over the years, becoming more diverse and inclusive. Since the initial, small intake of predominantly part-time students in 1925 (including Harriett Amies, the first woman to graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Melbourne), we now have a large and vibrant community of alumni you will soon join. We are proud to have you all join us for the centenary and look forward to the next 100 years.
For those joining us to commence their studies, welcome and congratulations. It is a great privilege to usher each new cohort into our community of people addressing real-world business challenges and promoting prosperity and equality. You are now studying at one of the best universities in the world with many chances to forge new friendships and expand your horizons. I encourage you to make the most of the world-class teaching, the Melbourne curriculum and experiential learning opportunities.
If you are returning after the summer recess, I hope you had a refreshing and restful break and are ready to start a new semester. It is a pleasure to welcome you back to campus to study and continue your tertiary education.
The Faculty of Business and Economics offers a diverse range of subjects and pathways that will propel you where you want to be or help you figure out what you want to do in the future if you haven’t decided quite yet.
The academic staff teaching your subjects are internationally recognised for their disciplinary excellence – they are the leaders in their fields, who bring their cutting-edge research insights to the classroom. They will encourage you to own your learning experience, by questioning and challenging established knowledge and understanding. They are very much looking forward to seeing you in lectures and tutorials.
Our student support team will communicate with you regularly and keep you up to date with study opportunities and enrichment activities. If you need guidance about subject selection, you can talk to one of our support staff. I invite you to become familiar with the University’s range of support services, including career guidance and mental health support.
The Faculty of Business and Economics holds events for the wider community which you can also attend, such as public lectures and conferences. You can learn about these via our newsroom and social media.
I hope you enjoy your first weeks on campus. I look forward to seeing you around The Spot and FBE buildings.
Best,
Paul Kofman
Dean, Faculty of Business and Economics
