University of South Australia : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details | Top Universities
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# =340QS World University Rankings

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159Undergraduate programs

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71Postgraduate programs

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5QS stars

About University of South Australia

The University of South Australia is a globally connected and engaged university with industry-informed teaching and research that is inventive and adventurous.

Ranked #1 in South Australia for graduate full-time employment*, the University offers students the chance to gain real-world experience.

Focused on life beyond the classroom, the University of South Australia offers a practical approach to teaching and learning. Degrees are designed in partnership with industry, giving students opportunities to gain the latest insights and trends and ensuring they graduate career ready.

The University collaborates with more than 2,500 companies worldwide to bring students valuable networking and work opportunities including placements, internships and real-world projects. Its graduates are the new professionals, global citizens at ease with the world and ready to create and respond to change.


The University of South Australia is:

  • #1 in South Australia for graduate full-time employment*
  • Top 50 young university under 50 in the world*
  • #1 young university in Australia for industry income*


Make an enquiry


Research

With 100% of its assessed research rated at or above world-class*, the University of South Australia supports research which is inspired by challenges, ensuring it connects with industry and community needs.

The University has interdisciplinary teams that tackle significant real-world problems, with more than 30 research institutes, centres, and concentrations working to generate change. These research groups focus on diverse areas, including, but not limited, to:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality
  • Business, economics, and marketing
  • Defence and space
  • Health, medicine, and cancer

To learn more about the University of South Australia’s research capabilities, please visit the University of South Australia’s website.


Degrees

The University of South Australia is #1 in South Australia for full-time gradate employment*. Students develop relevant and in-demand skills across more than 200 world-class degrees. These degrees are diverse and flexible:


These degrees expand across industry-focused and contemporary areas:

  • Architecture, Design and Art
  • Business, Law, and Criminal Justice
  • Education and Teaching
  • Information Technology, Science, and Mathematics
  • Nursing, Health, and Medical Sciences
  • Psychology, Social Work and Human Services
  • Screen, Creative Industries and Communication.

Discover more about studying at the University of South Australia. You can also look at our study guides


Students

The University of South Australia is a place for unstoppable people. Students learn from experts, connect with industry, and go beyond the classroom to graduate ahead of the pack.

Students learn in a highly practical environment by completing real-world projects, industry internships and professional placements. The University of South Australia also allows students to develop the skills required for tomorrow's workforce.  The university prides itself on its programs, people, and precincts.

For more study and student information, make an enquiry or visit our website.

Find out more:


Scholarships

Each year more than 2,500 students benefit from University of South Australia’s scholarships and grants. The university has a range of categories, including support for high achievers and students-in-need, along with scholarships specifically for international students.

Discover more about University of South Australia scholarships.


*To see more information about the University of South Australia’s global and national rankings, please visit the University’s website.

About University of South Australia

The University of South Australia is a globally connected and engaged university with industry-informed teaching and research that is inventive and adventurous.

Ranked #1 in South Australia for graduate full-time employment*, the University offers students the chance to gain real-world experience.

Focused on life beyond the classroom, the University of South Australia offers a practical approach to teaching and learning. Degrees are designed in partnership with industry, giving students opportunities to gain the latest insights and trends and ensuring they graduate career ready.

The University collaborates with more than 2,500 companies worldwide to bring students valuable networking and work opportunities including placements, internships and real-world projects. Its graduates are the new professionals, global citizens at ease with the world and ready to create and respond to change.


The University of South Australia is:

  • #1 in South Australia for graduate full-time employment*
  • Top 50 young university under 50 in the world*
  • #1 young university in Australia for industry income*


Make an enquiry


Research

With 100% of its assessed research rated at or above world-class*, the University of South Australia supports research which is inspired by challenges, ensuring it connects with industry and community needs.

The University has interdisciplinary teams that tackle significant real-world problems, with more than 30 research institutes, centres, and concentrations working to generate change. These research groups focus on diverse areas, including, but not limited, to:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality
  • Business, economics, and marketing
  • Defence and space
  • Health, medicine, and cancer

To learn more about the University of South Australia’s research capabilities, please visit the University of South Australia’s website.


Degrees

The University of South Australia is #1 in South Australia for full-time gradate employment*. Students develop relevant and in-demand skills across more than 200 world-class degrees. These degrees are diverse and flexible:


These degrees expand across industry-focused and contemporary areas:

  • Architecture, Design and Art
  • Business, Law, and Criminal Justice
  • Education and Teaching
  • Information Technology, Science, and Mathematics
  • Nursing, Health, and Medical Sciences
  • Psychology, Social Work and Human Services
  • Screen, Creative Industries and Communication.

Discover more about studying at the University of South Australia. You can also look at our study guides


Students

The University of South Australia is a place for unstoppable people. Students learn from experts, connect with industry, and go beyond the classroom to graduate ahead of the pack.

Students learn in a highly practical environment by completing real-world projects, industry internships and professional placements. The University of South Australia also allows students to develop the skills required for tomorrow's workforce.  The university prides itself on its programs, people, and precincts.

For more study and student information, make an enquiry or visit our website.

Find out more:


Scholarships

Each year more than 2,500 students benefit from University of South Australia’s scholarships and grants. The university has a range of categories, including support for high achievers and students-in-need, along with scholarships specifically for international students.

Discover more about University of South Australia scholarships.


*To see more information about the University of South Australia’s global and national rankings, please visit the University’s website.

Available programs

At the University of South Australia we are focused on life beyond the classroom and helping you get career ready – that’s why we are number one in South Australia for full-time graduate employment*. We have strong links with industry and take a practical approach to teaching and learning, so that you can make a real impact in your chosen profession.

We have more than 200 degrees on offer, taught by highly experienced academics and industry professionals in world-class facilities. Explore our seven academic areas: 


A number of our discipline areas are highly ranked in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, including:

  • Top 100 – Nursing
  • Top 100 – Sports-related Subjects
  • Top 150 – Hospitality & Leisure Management
  • Top 150 – Architecture & Built Environment 


ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities.


The University of South Australia is Australia's University of Enterprise. Our culture of innovation is anchored around global and national links to academic, research and industry partners. Taught by award-winning teachers, industry professionals and renowned researchers in world-class facilities, a postgraduate qualification with the University of South Australia will help you be the best in your field.

From masters by research programs to PhD studies, the University of South Australia offers a range of postgraduate qualifications. Explore our seven academic areas: 


A number of our discipline areas are highly ranked in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, including:

  • Top 100 – Nursing
  • Top 100 – Sports-related Subjects
  • Top 150 – Hospitality & Leisure Management
  • Top 150 – Architecture & Built Environment


Research Excellence:

Research at the University of South Australia is inspired by challenges and opportunities, partnered with end-users and communities, and underpinned by excellence. Our strong commitment to cutting-edge research and engagement with industry has been well recognised, with 100% of our assessed research rated at or above world-class*.

The University is home to a number of flagship research institutes and centres, including: 


*2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA), 4-digit Fields of Research.

University information

Apply for an undergraduate degree at the University of South Australia in four simple steps...

Important note: If you are applying for one of the University of South Australia’s 100% online degrees, apply directly to UniSA Online.


1. Choose

Gather all the information you need by exploring our website and reading our study and career guides. Choose what degrees you're most interested in and make sure you understand the program requirements, and entry requirements, especially if you are an international student:


If you’re not sure where to begin, you may be interested in completing a MyCareerMatch profile. This quiz will provide you with a personalised career report giving you information about your personality style and a list of career options, which are complementary to your natural strengths and talents.

If you have questions about your study options, connect with our Future Student Enquiries team or attend an event to learn more about studying with the University of South Australia.


2. Apply

Australian students:

Your journey to study with the University of South Australia starts now. You can apply through the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre ( SATAC ) website.

With up to six preferences available in your application, make sure you have your preferences in the order of what you would like to be offered, with the degree you most want to study first. Consider adding other pathways to your application such as Foundation Studies or a Diploma program through our UniSA College.

For advice on your SATAC application, book in for a 1-1 appointment with our Future Student Enquiries team for help structuring your preferences and entry pathways.

International students:

If you’re an international student, you may need to apply through a registered the University of South Australia education agent, unless you are already onshore in Australia. View the full list of countries by citizenship here.

Once you have found the program you wish to study from the program's home page click 'apply online' which will take you to our easy-to-use online International Application System


3. Check and confirm

Australian students:

If you are applying using Year 12 results, check to see if you’re eligible for Adjustment Factors (bonus points) and confirm your Selection Rank (ATAR, including Adjustment Factors), by visiting SATAC’s self-service portal. Then, give our Future Student Enquiries team a call to talk through your study options. If you’re applying with other qualifications, get in touch with Future Student Enquiries for advice on your application and pathway options.

You could be eligible for the University of South Australia’s Guaranteed Entry into your preferred degree by either achieving the guaranteed Selection Rank, using your Year 12 subject grades or if you have completed a Vocational Educational Training (VET) qualification. Check out our Guaranteed Entry calculators to explore your options.

Also, don't forget to pay your SATAC fee. Otherwise you won't be eligible to receive an offer - be sure not to miss out!

International students:

Once you have gone through the Online International Application System, you can expect an application outcome in one to two weeks*. Please make sure you have submitted all supporting documents to avoid delays. If you are eligible we will email you or your Education Agent, an offer letter package. If you are not eligible, we may suggest alternative programs or pathways. Your application will be assessed in accordance with the University’s Selection and Entry to Programs Policy, which includes the guidelines on genuine student requirement and guidelines on living costs and evidence of funds.

*From your submission including all supporting documentation required.


4.   Respond

If you receive an offer to study at the University of South Australia – CONGRATULATIONS!! We can't wait to welcome you to the University of South Australia community.

Australian students:

Once you receive your offer, be sure to read your SATAC email carefully for important information about responding to your offer and the program enrolment process.

If you receive an offer to your first preference you do not need to respond as SATAC will accept this on your behalf. If you receive an offer that was not your first preference, you will need to log on to the SATAC website and respond to your offer by the response date shown on your offer email.

International students:

Follow our step-by-step guide to accepting your offer, then get excited preparing for student life in Adelaide at the University of South Australia.

Visit our website for more information or make an enquiry.


Interested in postgraduate study?

Discover more information here:

General

176+
6.5+
58+
79+

Bachelor

60+
6+
50+
169+

Master

58+
79+
176+
6.5+

Students at the University of South Australia learn in modern campus facilities in Adelaide - one of the most liveable cities in the world*. 

The University is home to state of-the-art buildings and infrastructure, housing world-class research and education environments. Researchers and students have access to industry-standard teaching spaces and the latest technologies, along with enhanced facilities that connect with industry and the community.

Discover the world-class facilities that make the University of South Australia a great place to study and research. Discover more about the University’s six campuses here.

Find out more:


*Adelaide is one of the most liveable cities in the world, Ranked equal 12th, 2023 Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index.

16,627
85%
15%
3,640
64%
36%
1,552
51%
49%

Student life

The University of South Australia provides a vibrant and exciting student experience filled with events, entertainment, sports, and clubs. Students build a community of friends throughout their studies and connect with diverse cultures and experiences.

With more than 100 clubs, 50 annual events, and comfortable study and social areas, the University of South Australia offers an exciting lifestyle for both local and international students!

Discover more about student life at the University of South Australia. For study enquiries, visit our website or make an enquiry

Your career begins when you start studying – it’s your opportunity to be unstoppable. You’ll succeed in a global university and further your career, equipped with in-demand industry skills.

At the University of South Australia, we are focused on life beyond the classroom and helping you get career ready. We have strong links with industry and take a practical approach to teaching and learning, so that you can make a real impact in your chosen profession. Check out our study and career guides or make an enquiry

Tuition fee and scholarships

One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.

In this guide you will find:
opportunities

Where to look for scholarship opportunities

how_to

How to apply to scholarships relevant to you

list

A list of available scholarships around the world

checklist

A scholarship application checklist

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download_icon Download Scholarship Guide

Each year more than 2500 the University of South Australia students from all walks of life benefit from scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars, so chances are there’s one for you.

We have a range of categories - including support for high achievers, international students, students in need, and more!

Learn more about scholarships and grants by visiting the University of South Australia website.

Rankings & ratings

University of South Australia is one of the top public universities in Adelaide, Australia. It is ranked #=340 in QS World University Rankings 2025.

QS World University Rankings

  • 2012
    #293
  • 2014
    #=341
  • 2015
    #333
  • 2016
    #288
  • 2017
    #=288
  • 2018
    #=279
  • 2019
    #=264
  • 2020
    #274
  • 2021
    #295
  • 2022
    #=326
  • 2023
    #=363
  • 2024
    #=326
  • 2025
    #=340
QS Stars is a rating system that helps you select the right university based on your interests. It provides a detailed look at an institution, identifying which universities rate highest in the specific topics that matter to you, like facilities, graduate employability, social responsibility, inclusiveness, and more.

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FAQs

In addition to academic and English language requirements, you need to be aware of the guidelines on genuine student requirement and guidelines on living-costs and evidence of funds.


For more frequently asked questions and answers, visit the University of South Australia's   FAQ information here: study.unisa.edu.au.

You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen University of South Australia degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive a credit transfer or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

You can read more about our credit arrangements and view our online Credit Assessor here.

For more frequently asked questions and answers, visit the University of South Australia's FAQ information here: study.unisa.edu.au.

For international students, you can  access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process.  Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered education agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC.

If you are applying for the  University of South Australia Study Abroad or Exchange program, you can submit your application online here.

For information on postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit our Research at UniSA webpage.

Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life.

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 program or an equivalent program in your home country or a recognised Pathway or Foundation Studies program to the required standard to be considered for entry to an undergraduate degree at the University of South Australia. If you're a domestic student, you can learn more about entry requirements and pathways on our website.

Some degrees may also require you to have completed certain courses to be eligible for entry. For more detailed information, find your degree on our website.

As well as academic entry requirements, you should also be aware of the English language requirements, the guidelines on genuine student requirements and guidelines on living costs and evidence of funds.

You'll be studying at one of the world's top 50 young universities *.

 

The University of South Australia is a globally connected and engaged university with industry-informed teaching and research that is inventive and adventurous. Ranked number 1 in South Australia for teaching quality *  and with 100% of assessed research rated at or above world-class * , the University is young, innovative and offers students the chance to gain real-world experience.


Degrees are designed with strong professional emphasis and in partnership with industry, giving students opportunities to gain practical skills and graduate career ready. Our graduates are the new professionals who are ready to create and respond to change.


*To see more information about the University of South Australia’s global and national rankings, please visit the University’s website.


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