Our History
Southern Cross University was established on 1 January 1994. The University's identity – the Southern Cross constellation – symbolises a guiding light for the curious and a beacon for independent thinking. Over the decades that have followed, this founding vision has led to Southern Cross being known as one of Australia’s most innovative universities.
Rather than emulating institutions steeped in tradition, Southern Cross proudly ventured in a new direction, focused firmly on the future. Allied health courses – from nursing to osteopathy and naturopathy to occupational therapy – reef restoration, regenerative agriculture, education and responsible business leadership are just a handful of fields demonstrating our commitment to a brighter future.
With more than 75,000 graduates and world-leading research, our impact is felt in our local communities and across the globe.
Challenging convention from day one
From our very beginning, we have been a University to challenge convention. Emerging from the richly-diverse regions of the Northern Rivers, Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast we have grown to now connect with more than 75,000 alumni around the globe. We are proud of our regions, of the opportunities we give to students who might be the first in generations to attend university and to the growing number of Indigenous students who choose Southern Cross.
We pay tribute to the high achievers, several of whom have received the prestigious New Colombo Plan Scholarships, and those who have gone on to lead their businesses and organisations. You will be inspired and supported by people who share your ambitions to achieve personal success while having a positive impact on the world. We hold true to the values of excellence, boldness, trust and accountability. Threading through the entire Southern Cross experience is a deep sense of caring – for each other, for our communities, for our planet and for our futures.
Why study with us?
> A better way to learn
The Southern Cross Model is what sets Southern Cross University apart from the rest.
This new academic model allows students to focus on just one or two subjects at once, over a six-week teaching term, before moving on. This enables deeper learning as well as more control over when you study allowing you to create the ideal life balance.
It’s the future of study, with flexibility built-in.
> As a multi-campus university, the regions we call home have unique characteristics as study locations.
> Research, rankings and reputation
Southern Cross University has achieved world-class results in research, rankings, student satisfaction and overall reputation. Our success in these endeavours, combined with our fantastic locations, staff and support systems, is what makes us the perfect place to study.
> Equity and Diversity
Diversity makes us bold, aware, compassionate and better. It pushes us to challenge the status quo. Southern Cross University is committed to being an inclusive and culturally safe work and study environment that values, supports, embraces and benefits from the diversity of its people and communities.
> Pathways for every student
Going straight from school to a degree is one way to start uni, but it’s not the only way. If your child doesn’t achieve the required ATAR to get into their course, the University may recommend they complete a pathway program first.
Southern Cross University has two excellent pathway programs suitable for school leavers. Both are fee-free and develop the skills that students will need at university to be successful. Undertaking a Diploma through SCU College is also an excellent way to commence university.
> Transform your future
At Southern Cross University, we believe in your possibilities, your potential, and we offer a vibrant teaching, learning, research and cultural environment to help you achieve your goals.
Relevance and resonance underpin everything we do. Our degree and research courses arise from today, but have their sights firmly on the future. We strive to create change that has a positive impact, from local to global.
- Southern Cross University is ranked 35th in Australia according to the QS World University Rankings, falling third last among the included Australian public universities.
- The university has been ranked in the top 100 best universities in the Asia-Pacific region for 2017 by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
- Southern Cross University is rated 'at world standard' or above in 24 research areas by Excellence in Research for Australia 2015, and ranked number one in Australia for International student support for the third consecutive year.
- SCU was ranked number two in Australia for overall learning experience by the International Student Barometer 2015. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is rated 4 out of 5 stars by the Graduate Management Association of Australia (GMAA).
- Southern Cross University in the top 150 universities around the world under 50 years old (2019 Times Higher Education Young University Rankings).
- #1 in Australia for international student support (2018 International Student Barometer).
- Rated 5 stars for student support, teaching quality and social equity (2019 Good Universities Guide).
