The table and pie charts illustrate the number and proportion of research students in Australian universities in 2001 and 2010, categorized into local and international students, along with their gender distribution.
Looking at the illustration, it is clear that local research students outnumbered international students in both years. However, the number of international students grew significantly, and their gender distribution shifted over time.
In 2001, the number of local research students dominated the chart at approximately 33,657, which was nearly seven times higher than the number of international students (5,192). This gap narrowed over the years as both categories saw growth. By 2010, local students had increased to 39,488, while international students experienced a threefold rise to 14,593. Despite this, local students continued to be the majority.
In 2001, the gender distribution among local students was relatively balanced, with males accounting for 44% and females for 43%. In contrast, international students exhibited a significant gender disparity, with 9% male and only 4% female. By 2010, the trend shifted slightly among local students, with males decreasing to 38% and females at 35%. Meanwhile, international students saw a reversal, with females increasing to 15% and males at 12%, reflecting a growing interest in research studies among female international students.