In a move that has raised eyebrows and sparked debate, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) recently announced plans to establish a new School of Medicine, introducing a five-year undergraduate entry Doctor of Medicine program—the first of its kind in Queensland. This initiative aims to tackle Queensland’s pressing healthcare workforce shortages, particularly in General Practice, by providing a direct, streamlined pathway for students to enter medical training directly from high school.
While the prospect of bolstering Queensland’s medical workforce is commendable, the approval and funding of this new medical program comes at a time when QUT’s creative arts degrees are undergoing significant restructuring and, in some cases, suspension. This juxtaposition raises questions about the university’s allocation of resources and commitment to the arts.
In 2020, QUT announced the withdrawal of its Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance Performance) course, citing a need to consolidate and focus on other areas within the creative arts. This decision was part of a broader trend of universities scaling back arts programs due to financial constraints and shifting priorities.
More recently, in July 2024, QUT unveiled plans to launch the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree (previously Bachelor of Fine Arts) in 2025. This restructured program emphasises interdisciplinary study, allowing students to combine creative disciplines and tailor their studies to their interests. While this flexibility is a positive development, it also reflects a departure from specialised arts training, potentially diluting the depth of expertise that dedicated programs once offered.
The timing of these developments is particularly striking. As creative arts programs face cuts and restructuring, the approval and funding of a new medical school suggests a prioritisation of disciplines perceived as more directly linked to economic and societal needs. This raises concerns about the value placed on the arts within the academic landscape and the broader community.
Furthermore, the approval process for the medical school’s funding merits critical scrutiny. Establishing a medical program is a resource-intensive endeavour, requiring significant investment in infrastructure, faculty, and accreditation processes. In contrast, the arts often operate with more modest budgets and yet are among the first to experience cuts during financial downturns. This disparity highlights potential biases in funding allocation and begs the question: what criteria are being used to determine the value and viability of academic programs?
It’s also worth noting that the new medical program intendeds to alleviate healthcare shortages, particularly in rural and regional areas. However, some students and stakeholders have expressed concerns that establishing a medical school in Brisbane may not effectively serve these underserved communities. They argue that resources might be better allocated to existing regional universities or programs with a stronger focus on rural healthcare delivery.
The broader implications of these decisions extend beyond QUT. They reflect a national and perhaps global trend in higher education, where funding and resources are increasingly directed toward STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields at the expense of the arts and humanities. While the importance of STEM cannot be understated, a well-rounded education system that includes strong arts programs is essential for fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.
Advocates for the arts argue that creative disciplines contribute significantly to the economy and society. Creative industries are among the fastest-growing sectors globally, offering substantial employment opportunities and driving innovation across various fields. Moreover, the arts play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural identity, social cohesion, and individual well-being.
The current scenario at QUT serves as a microcosm of the challenges facing universities worldwide. Balancing the demands of economic pragmatism with the intrinsic value of the arts is a complex endeavour. However, it is imperative that institutions of higher learning strive for an equilibrium that does not disproportionately favour one discipline over another.
While the establishment of QUT’s new School of Medicine addresses critical healthcare needs and offers exciting opportunities for prospective medical students, it also brings to light concerns about funding priorities and the future of creative arts education. As universities navigate these complex decisions, it is essential to recognise and uphold the value of all academic disciplines, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive educational landscape that benefits society as a whole.
