ANU and Ramsay Centre open negotiations on new partnership

ANU is currently negotiating with the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation to develop a new program in Western Civilisation to add to the University's suite of undergraduate programs that includes European studies, Arab and Islamic studies, Asian studies and Pacific studies along with courses in Australian Indigenous studies. ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt AC said the program would build on the University's global reputation in humanities and social sciences stretching across literature, classics, history, art, and philosophy. "The gift of Paul Ramsay is the most substantial gift in Australian history to support the study of humanities. The generous scholarship program will give a diverse group of high-potential students the opportunity to access one of the best educational experiences in the country," Professor Schmidt said. "Our broad expertise across the humanities and social sciences and reputation for critical inquiry means ANU is best placed to deliver a comprehensive program in Western Civilisation, including a new undergraduate degree." He said the potential new degree can be combined with a broad range of other subjects or combined in a double degree, creating a tailored interdisciplinary education among the best in the world. "The quality of our academics and their research is the basis for our global reputation and ability to serve Australia well. Their work is grounded in excellence, critical inquiry and a strong tradition of academic independence, integrity and freedom," Professor Schmidt said.