A new specialist university Masters degree will upskill researchers and professionals working in the cancer field, and has been developed with the support of the Andrews Labor Government.
Parliamentary Secretary for Health Anthony Carbines today launched the University of Melbourne Master of Cancer Sciences Course, in partnership with the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Alliance.
The Labor Government provided $600,000 towards the development of the Masters degree, which will be delivered through an online suite of graduate programs in cancer research, education and care.
It is the first cancer-specific online Masters program in Australia for health professionals who care for cancer patients, and just one of two in the world.
The part-time digital format ensures busy health professionals can juggle their workload, no matter where they live.
The first intake of 41 students includes 26 from Victoria, 14 from other states and one from outside Australia.
The program places the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre as a leading centre of excellence in cancer teaching and learning, here in Australia and internationally.
As noted by Parliamentary Secretary for Health Anthony Carbines
"Victoria is home to the best and brightest medical minds – this digital course ensures we strengthen that internationally renowned research community even further."
"Cancer affects far too many families – this program will build the sort of world-class workforce that renews hope and helps save lives."
"This degree will equip the workforce with cutting-edge tools to bring the best of cancer care to Victoria, as well as taking this state's research findings to the world."
