A brief history of the University of Sydney
Take a quick trip through time and learn about the University's past
Did you know that the University of Sydney is the oldest university in Australia? Founded in 1850, our Camperdown/Darlington campus was established on the land of the Cadigal people of the Eora Nation.The University of Sydney (USYD), also known as Sydney University, or informally Sydney Uni, is a public research university located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Our founding principle as Australia’s first university was that we would be a modern and progressive institution, supporting students of all backgrounds to further their education. These values haven't changed – but as you can see, our campus and its surroundings certainly have!
Famous faces and quiet achievers
Our famous alumni include names such as Gough Whitlam and pioneer heart transplant surgeon Victor Chang, but also people who improve lives and contribute to change out of the spotlight.
For more than 150 years our alumni have inspired, led, entertained, challenged and improved the world around them.
You’ll recognise many of our famous names; lawmaker Michael Kirby, journalist and broadcaster Mary Kostakidis, writer Clive James, opera singer Dame Joan Sutherland and activist Charles Perkins.
But, for every famous alumnus or alumna, you’ll find thousands of people who have led change and made a difference in their own field.
We’re equally proud of them all and impressed by their achievements.
Why study at the University of Sydney?
Current students share the best parts about studying at Sydney
- We're dedicated to supporting you throughout your time at university, discover our variety of scholarships for domestic and international students.
- The University’s industry connections and career support are setting up for the career.
- Providing a world-class teaching, practical experiences and global exposure.
- Sydney offers excellent value, in and out of the classroom.
- Our flexible undergraduate degrees allow you to find the right study path to suit your interests, strengths and career goals. And our postgraduate degrees let you fit study around your life.
- At the University of Sydney, our community draws students from more than 130 countries around the world. From choosing to come to Australia, to why they chose the University of Sydney and the best parts about life abroad, our current international students share their stories.
- Life on campus - University life isn't just about the classes. It's also a chance for you to make lifelong friends, try new things, develop your hobbies and interests, gain leadership skills and have fun.
- Cafes and shops on campus
Whether you're after a sit-down lunch, a quick afternoon snack or an umbrella for those unpredictably wet days, we've got you covered with a range of food and retail options on campus. - Sport and fitness
Whether you’re training for a gold medal or looking for a lunch time workout, Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness (SUSF) offers programs, memberships and sports clubs to suit everyone. - Clubs and societies
We have over 250 clubs and societies, bringing together students to celebrate their culture, indulge in a favourite food, discuss a fandom, develop a professional network and more.
- Cafes and shops on campus
Our world university rankings
The University of Sydney is ranked as one of the best universities in Australia and the world
Ranked 19th in the world overall and 1st globally in a wide range of disciplines, our excellence in research, teaching and sustainability makes us one of the top universities in Australia.
# 19th in the world QS University World Rankings 2024
#1st in Australia for sustainability: QS Sustainability Rankings 2024
#2nd in Australia QS University World Rankings 2024
We’re ranked in the top 20 universities in the world
Our excellence in research and teaching makes the University of Sydney one of the top universities in Australia and highly ranked among the best universities in the world.
The University of Sydney consistently ranks in the top 100 globally in leading world university rankings including QS, Times Higher Education, and the Academic Ranking of World Universities.
More rankings that matter
We are also highly ranked in some of the most credible and influential world university rankings.
#28th for research excellence US News & World Report Rankings 2023
#60th in the world THE World University Rankings 2024
#73rd in academic rankings Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023
- Business School rankings
- The University of Sydney Business School is ranked 15th in the Asia-Pacific region by the Financial Times Top 20 Business Schools in the Americas and Asia-Pacific 2018.
- We also hold triple crown accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS, placing us in the top 1% of business schools worldwide.?
Employability rankings and awards
The Business School's Job Smart Edge is an employability program for international students. Globally recognised, it is the recipient of multiple prestigious international education awards.
- =19thin the world (QS World University Rankings 2024)
- Winner2023 NSW International Engagement Award – Education Providers
- Winner2020 QS Reimagine Education Global Education Award - Job Smart Edge
- Winner2020 Innovative Universities Award - Job Smart
- Winner2019 AFR Higher Education Employability Award - Job Smart
