Degrees for a New Generation

Degrees for a New Generation charts an extraordinary journey undertaken by the University of Melbourne. In 2005, the University agreed on a broad notion of curriculum reform; by 2008 it had the first intake of students into its new ‘Melbourne Model’ undergraduate courses; by 2011 the first cohort had graduated and the University shifted its professional programs to graduate-level entry. It was a massive, at times controversial, transformation of an old and large institution, which ultimately has left no aspect of the University untouched.


Mary Emison's detailed, insightful account of the making of the Melbourne Model highlights the processes, people and groups involved in planning, implementing and managing these radical changes. It traces the story from the consultative beginnings, led by Vice-Chancellor Glyn Davis, through the assiduous work of course design and transition led by Peter McPhee, involving generous commitments of time, energy and reflection from a great many professional and academic staff. Emison shows that academic structures in a large university can be transformed to offer a flexible approach to tertiary education that fits with a changing global environment.