University of Newcastle expands study options on the Central Coast for 2026

The University of Newcastle has announced a major expansion of study opportunities on the Central Coast, unveiling new diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs to commence in 2026 at its soon-to-open Mann Street campus in Gosford.

The expanded offerings build on the first wave of programs announced in May and are designed to meet the region’s workforce needs while enabling more students to study close to home. The University already supports more than 3,000 students on the Central Coast each year, and the new programs are expected to boost enrolments further.

From 2026, students will be able to enrol in:

• Diploma in Social and Human Services
• Diploma in Built Environment (Building major)
• Diploma in Creative and Performing Arts
• Master of Food Science & Technology
• Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood/Primary)
• Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing and Advanced Practice

Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said the new offerings reflect the University’s commitment to the Central Coast and its evolving economic landscape.

“We know it’s important for students to have strong job opportunities once they complete their study, which is why we’ve prioritised programs that meet the region’s needs,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“Our ultimate goal is for more people to be able to study and find jobs without leaving the Coast.”

The inclusion of the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood/Primary) is particularly significant for the early childhood sector. With demand for qualified educators rising across Australia, the program aims to support workforce growth and improve access to high-quality education for young children in the region.

“We know the region needs more qualified early education teachers to work in a growing sector,” Professor Zelinsky said.

Similarly, programs such as the Diploma in Built Environment and Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing and Advanced Practice have been designed to align with regional development priorities and health sector needs.

The University’s new Mann Street facility is nearing completion, with construction on track to finish by October 2025. Located just 450 metres from Gosford train station and the Central Coast Clinical School, the four-storey building will open its doors to students from Semester 1, 2026.

The project is jointly funded by:

• University of Newcastle – $31.3 million
• Australian Government – $18 million
• NSW Government – $18 million
• Land provided by Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation

The campus is part of broader plans to revitalise the Gosford CBD, with the University’s presence expected to bring both educational and economic benefits to the area.

With the expansion of study programs and a new state-of-the-art campus, the University of Newcastle is reinforcing its role as a key driver of education and employment pathways for the Central Coast.

“We are committed to the Central Coast, and I look forward to seeing students enrol in these new programs for 2026,” Professor Zelinsky said.

For prospective students, the new programs represent a chance to gain qualifications in critical fields while staying connected to their community.

This article is based on reporting from the University of Newcastle Australia.