A Regional University Study Hub has been announced for Hay.

The Country University Centre (CUC) in Hay will be co-located at the existing TAFE Connected Learning Centre, and is expected to open by the middle of the year.

The Centre will allow students in the region to remain connected with family, friends and local employment while undertaking their studies.

Hay could have its own university by as early as next year.

A pilot campus for Country University Centre in partnership with TAFE Connected Learning Centre has been proposed, and to be known as CUC Hay.

As reported by Hay Shire Council in October and in The Riverine Grazier on November 15, Hay had been identified as a good fit for CUC Southern Riverina which would also include the Councils of Berrigan, Edward River and Murray River.