With a predicted growth of 100,000 new residents over the next 20 years, the council has been working with Baulkham Hills state MP David Elliott and Hills business leaders on the potential for a graduate school of management in Norwest Business Park.

"Norwest offers a unique opportunity for graduates already working in the region to integrate further tertiary studies with their current employment," Mr Elliott said.

Hills councillors, Mr Elliott and local businessman Jim Taggart have begun discussions with three universities.

It is proposed the graduate school would offer studies in business administration, business, management and human resource management.

But mayor Greg Burnett said community input was an important part of the process.

The council is calling on residents to answer an online survey to determine the need for the graduate school and the degree qualifications it should offer.

The mayor and deputy mayor Michelle Byrne are encouraging residents to complete the short survey.

"This is a fantastic opportunity, not only in terms of the educational choices it will offer our residents and local businesses, but also the resultant investment and jobs creation in the local economy," councillor Byrne said.

Sydney Hills Business Chamber chairman Tony Eades said The Hills was a "strong community with strong economic growth forecasts and, as such, a need to attract and retain professionals".

"If successful, the Norwest graduate school will be just another reason to live and work in the Hills," Mr Elliott said.

¦ The survey can be found at http://research.net/s/

norwestu niversity