Overview
Established in 1994, Southern Cross University (SCU) is an Australia’s world-ranked public university and has various campuses including the main east coast campuses in Gold Coast, Northern Rivers, and Coffs Harbour as well as metro campuses in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. The university offers honours degrees, 100+ undergraduate degrees and over 75 postgraduate
degrees in various study areas across 6 faculties and colleges. The university also has research programs such as Masters by Thesis, Doctor of Philosophy, and Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program, which work with different industries and government sectors to complete these programs. SCU is recognized in the Top 100 Young Universities and Top 600 Universities globally by Times Higher Education. In 2024, it was ranked 576th in the world according to QS World University Rankings. Moreover, according to Shanghai Rankings, the 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects include Oceanography in Top 150, Nursing in Top 300, Hospitality and Tourism Management in Top 200, Ecology in Top 300, Earth Sciences in Top 500, and Education in Top 500. Study Areas
- Arts and Humanities
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Health
- Indigenous Knowledge
- Information Technology
- Law
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Science and Environment
- Social Work and Community Welfare
- Tourism
- Veterinary
- Faculties and Colleges
- Faculty of Business, Law and Arts
- Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Faculty of Health
- Faculty of Education
- Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples
- SCU College
Student Life
Students at Southern Cross University are encouraged to take part in various clubs and societies including cultural, academics, sports and recreation activities, providing students with the opportunity to pursue their interests. The Student Associations including the CoastRs, LEXSA, CHS, SCPA, and SATHS all offer events, services, and clubs to their campus communities. Similarly, in terms of sports and athletics, UniLife governs social sports programmes which are open to all students and staff. Students can also opt for esports which includes tours, camps, and other fitness facilities, promoting community engagement and wellbeing. Accommodations at SCU include options such as modern and fully furnished on-campus residential colleges at Lismore and Coffs Harbour with facilities such as kitchens, movie nights, and themed activities, as well as free UniStays service for students who want to live off-campus. Other support services for students include academic and career guidance, counselling, financial help and assistance in accommodation and mentoring, bringing a positive impact on student development. Notable Alumni Jacqueline Hey is an Australian banker and currently serving as the chairperson of the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank as well as the Boards of Qantas and AGL energy. She is also a council member at Brighton Grammar School and member of the Australian Institute of Company
Directors.