Our story
Explore our history and find out what sets us apart from other universities.m other universities.
Federation is regional Victoria's largest education institution. Federation University started as The School of Mines in Ballarat in 1870. Since then, we’ve grown and changed, merged with other institutions, established local and global partnerships, and produced over 123,000 graduates.
Our predecessors include the Ballarat School of Mines, Ballarat Teachers' College, State College of Victoria, Ballarat Institute of Advanced Education, Ballarat College of Advanced Education, Ballarat University College, Wimmera Institute of TAFE, Monash University Gippsland Campus, Gippsland Institute of Advanced Education and the University of Ballarat.
Today, Federation is regional Victoria’s largest education institution, with campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, Gippsland and the Wimmera. We’re dual sector, which means we offer both higher education and TAFE courses.
Why study at Federation
Looking for a university where you won't get lost in the crowd? Federation offers personalised support, flexible study options and industry connections.
Federation is a big uni with small-uni values. From the moment you receive an offer to the day you graduate, we make sure your experience is personalised. We want you to feel like your teachers really know you. Like the support staff really care. Like you’re not just another student. Why choose Federation? Because you’ll never get lost in the crowd.
Flexible study
Fitting study into your life might seem impossible. But at Federation, there are always options. Full time too much? You might be able to drop a unit. On campus not working for you? Check to see if your course is offered online.
Real support
It’s okay to ask for help. We encourage it, in fact. And we know that support needs to be holistic, so we have a huge range of free academic, financial and wellbeing services.
Industry connections
Our close links with major industry players mean you’ll learn relevant work skills and get real-world experience. Plus, you’ll graduate with one foot in the door.
Financial assistance
Going to uni might not be as expensive as you think. There are scholarships, for a start. And government funding. Free TAFE options. Paid placements. HELP loans.
Discover why Federation is ranked among the top 200 young universities worldwide and read about our dedication to skill development and first-generation student support.
Federation is now ranked #175 in the world's young universities
In the 2024 edition of the influential Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024, Federation remains listed in the top 151–200 young universities in the world.
The rankings list the world’s best universities that are 50 years old or younger, based on teaching, research, citations, industry partnerships and connection to the international community.
We're among the top universities in Australia for full-time employment
With our industry-connected courses and Co-op education model, Federation University graduates get jobs.
That’s why we’re #1 in Victoria and #2 in Australia for full-time postgraduate employment according to the QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023. Ninety-five per cent of our postgraduate coursework students are in full-time employment, earning a median salary.
Our World University Rankings
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings have placed us in the top 500 universities worldwide.
Our world-class reputation as a regional university was recognised in 2025 from our previous position in the top 601–800 globally. Federation was one of only four Australian universities that improved its ranking position for the year.
Federation now ranks in the top 10% of universities for overall sustainable development, as recognised by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, where we achieved an overall score of 82.8 out of 100.
Federation is now ranked:
- #24 for Gender Equality
- #27 for Partnership for the Goals
- #39 for Reduced Inequalities
- #45 for Good Health & Wellbeing.
#1 in Australia for First Generation enrolments
For the seventh year in a row, we’ve been ranked #1 in Australia for First Generation student enrolments.
5 stars for Skills Development
We're continuously striving to deliver top rankings for Skills Development, achieving a 5-star rating in the Good Universities Guide 2025.
Federation's commitment to skill development is embedded in our co-operative learning model. This is different to traditional work placements because we actively bridge campus-based learning with workplace learning – so you'll graduate with work experience as well as the skills to succeed.
#1 in Victoria for Social Equity
We're committed to a fair, just and equitable treatment of all students, staff and academics. Due to our consistent leadership in this area, we’ve been rated #1 in Victoria in Social Equity for the last eight years.
One of the leading factors that contribute to social equity is our commitment to supporting our students through scholarships.
#1 in Victoria for Student:Teacher Ratio
One of Federation’s best features is our small class sizes, where teachers are accessible and know our students by name, providing you with the best possible educational experience. That’s why were ranked #1 in Victoria for Student:Teacher Ratio.
