
A country diverse in culture and environment, Australia offers a unique study abroad experience for international students. Here we explore 5 world-leading institutions in Australia to help you on your journey to finding the right university.
1) University of Melbourne
Based in a vibrant and cosmopolitan city in south Australia, the University of Melbourne has plenty to offer for students. Besides the beautiful scenery and a plethora of coffee shops, the University of Melbourne is also a major part of the city with a strong reputation. Established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is ranked as the number one institution in Australia and 32nd in the world. In particular, the university ranks first for health and medicine courses in Australia according to The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020. In the same vein, the university also places in the top 20 for 14 subject areas (QS World University Rankings).
With 13,000 international students from over 130 countries, the University of Melbourne is no exception to the diversity of the city. In addition to its multicultural reputation, the university also ranks 7th in graduate employability prospects worldwide, offering unique opportunities to find work after graduating.
2) Australian National University (ANU)
Located in Canberra, the capital of Australia, ANU is a prestigious and highly esteemed institution. Established in 1946, the university is made up of seven colleges with a campus comprised of eight halls of residence. This year, ANU placed as the 2nd best institution in Australia and 50th in the world. With over 7,000 international students, the university offers a welcoming and inclusive environment performing particularly well in the following disciplines; arts and humanities, clinical, pre-clinical and health, engineering and technology, social sciences and law.
Besides golden beaches and a buzzing city centre, Sydney is also a prime destination for international students. The University of Sydney is ranked 3rd in Australia and 60th in the world, with a reputation as the fourth best institution for graduate employability (QS World University Rankings 2020). With more than 400 subject areas on offer, you won’t be stuck for choice. Similarly, you can expand on your interests and hobbies with the 200 clubs and societies run by the student’s union. Or take advantage of the gym, swimming pool and the largest academic library in the southern hemisphere.
Outside of campus life however, Sydney itself has been rated the 9th best student city in the world. Despite its low score for affordability, Sydney continues to be a popular study abroad spot for international students (QS Top Universities 2019).
4) University of Queensland (UQ)
The University of Queensland places at 66th in the world and 4th in Australia (THE World University Rankings 2020). UQ is based primarily in Brisbane on the Australian east coast and is the 5th oldest university in Australia, home to 7,000 staff and 52,000 students. As one of the biggest Australian universities in terms of student numbers, UQ also attracts 18,000 international students from 135 countries each year, reflecting its international outlook. The three most popular subjects based on enrolment are Doctor of Philosophy, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Engineering. UQ also has one of the largest enrolments of PhD students with a graduate school consisting of more than 2000 researchers.
Founded in 1958, Monash is Australia’s largest university with more than 60,000 students and 22,000 international students. Based in Melbourne, Monash University is a member of Australia’s Group of Eight which reflects a research-intensive focus. In fact, 70% of all Australian university research is carried out by this group of leading institutions. Placing 75th in the THE World University Rankings, Monash is a highly regarded institution for both domestic and international students. Monash University ranks highly for subjects such as life sciences, education and law with links to other major institutions around the globe, such as the University of Warwick in the UK.
Compare for yourself
Now that you've had some insight into the institutions in Australia why not take some time to explore further. Taking time to compare and contrast universities can go a long way to informing your decision of where you want to study. An ideal way to compare universities in Australia and see what's on offer is to look at the Times Higher Education Rankings for 2020 as well as contacting various institutions for more information. This way you're fully informed and in the know when it comes to preparing for your study abroad journey.