Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia) : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details | Top Universities
Ranking

# =495QS World University Rankings

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74Undergraduate programs

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33Postgraduate programs

stars

5QS stars

About Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia)

Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia) is the largest regional university in Australia. Across our 20+ locations nationally, we offer an excellent range of vocational, higher education and research courses, offering exceptional choice to students from within Australia and from more than 85 countries around the world.

We offer a world-class education, are ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide for graduate employability, and are recognised as Australia’s first and only Changemaker Campus by social innovation group Ashoka U. Plus, with locations across Australia, you’re sure to find one that suits your lifestyle.

Our courses are designed alongside industry and many include hands-on, practical learning experiences such as field and laboratory work, project-based learning and work placements. Our commitment to making real-world knowledge and skills accessible to all has seen us being awarded five-star ratings for full-time employment, social equity, student support, starting salary and first-generation student ratio, placing us in the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia in these categories. No matter whether you’re just finishing school or thinking of taking up a new challenge, CQUniversity can help you be what you want to be.


COVID-19 RESPONSE

CQUniversity continues to closely monitor the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) and is providing regular updates to current and prospective students based on information from federal and state government authorities. CQUniversity is an industry leader in online education meaning CQUniversity is well-placed to provide an excellent online service to our students when and if required to. We encourage both prospective domestic and international students to visit www.cqu.edu.au/coronavirus-advice for up-to-date information on entry requirements, applications, campus closures, support services, University accommodation and events.


AN INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOK

International students have contributed greatly to CQUniversity over the years, enriching the university culturally, academically, and contributing to its long-term growth. The concept of international activity is not new to CQUniversity. Over the past 25 years, CQUniversity has grown from a small institution focused on education and industry in regional Queensland, to a multi-campus, multi-city university focused on preparing highly diverse learners for internationally-engaged and effective professional practice wherever they may be situated.


QUALITY EDUCATION FOR EVERYONE
We welcome students from diverse cultural backgrounds, geographic locations and social-economic contexts. We continue to be Australia’s most accessible and inclusive university, ensuring that quality education is accessible to everyone by offering seamless pathway options for career progression with competitive and affordable fees.


RESEARCH WITH REAL-WORLD OUTCOMES
Our industry, government and community ties, along with collaboration with national and international research networks helps us produce research that answers real-world challenges. Our range of research higher degrees allow you to undertake research focused on a particular area of interest, and our research outcomes are both applied and have practical impacts on the communities we serve.

We’re rated as conducting world-class research in 22 different research categories, which includes the highest rating 'well above world standard' in Mathematical Sciences, Applied Mathematics, Horticultural Production, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Psychological and Cognitive Sciences and Other Psychology and Cognitive Sciences.


GLOBAL CONNECTIONS
CQUniversity has over 100 000 registered alumni across the globe so, no matter where you are in the world, you can enjoy the opportunity to connect and expand your personal and professional networks.  


FLEXIBILITY
At CQUniversity, you can study courses online, on-campus or a combination of both. We are a leading distance education provider and one of the first Australian universities to offer flexible, mixed-mode study so you can study where and how it suits you.

We currently have more than 35 000 students spread across more than 20 locations Australia-wide. Whether you prefer the bustling city life or the relaxed pace of a regional location, we offer more than 20 study locations including campuses and study centres/hubs in Adelaide, Biloela, Brisbane, Broome, Bundaberg, Busselton, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Melbourne, Perth, Rockhampton, Sydney and Townsville.

Explore how you can be what you want to be at CQUniversity Australia.

Visit cqu.edu.au
.

About Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia)

Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia) is the largest regional university in Australia. Across our 20+ locations nationally, we offer an excellent range of vocational, higher education and research courses, offering exceptional choice to students from within Australia and from more than 85 countries around the world.

We offer a world-class education, are ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide for graduate employability, and are recognised as Australia’s first and only Changemaker Campus by social innovation group Ashoka U. Plus, with locations across Australia, you’re sure to find one that suits your lifestyle.

Our courses are designed alongside industry and many include hands-on, practical learning experiences such as field and laboratory work, project-based learning and work placements. Our commitment to making real-world knowledge and skills accessible to all has seen us being awarded five-star ratings for full-time employment, social equity, student support, starting salary and first-generation student ratio, placing us in the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia in these categories. No matter whether you’re just finishing school or thinking of taking up a new challenge, CQUniversity can help you be what you want to be.


COVID-19 RESPONSE

CQUniversity continues to closely monitor the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) and is providing regular updates to current and prospective students based on information from federal and state government authorities. CQUniversity is an industry leader in online education meaning CQUniversity is well-placed to provide an excellent online service to our students when and if required to. We encourage both prospective domestic and international students to visit www.cqu.edu.au/coronavirus-advice for up-to-date information on entry requirements, applications, campus closures, support services, University accommodation and events.


AN INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOK

International students have contributed greatly to CQUniversity over the years, enriching the university culturally, academically, and contributing to its long-term growth. The concept of international activity is not new to CQUniversity. Over the past 25 years, CQUniversity has grown from a small institution focused on education and industry in regional Queensland, to a multi-campus, multi-city university focused on preparing highly diverse learners for internationally-engaged and effective professional practice wherever they may be situated.


QUALITY EDUCATION FOR EVERYONE
We welcome students from diverse cultural backgrounds, geographic locations and social-economic contexts. We continue to be Australia’s most accessible and inclusive university, ensuring that quality education is accessible to everyone by offering seamless pathway options for career progression with competitive and affordable fees.


RESEARCH WITH REAL-WORLD OUTCOMES
Our industry, government and community ties, along with collaboration with national and international research networks helps us produce research that answers real-world challenges. Our range of research higher degrees allow you to undertake research focused on a particular area of interest, and our research outcomes are both applied and have practical impacts on the communities we serve.

We’re rated as conducting world-class research in 22 different research categories, which includes the highest rating 'well above world standard' in Mathematical Sciences, Applied Mathematics, Horticultural Production, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Psychological and Cognitive Sciences and Other Psychology and Cognitive Sciences.


GLOBAL CONNECTIONS
CQUniversity has over 100 000 registered alumni across the globe so, no matter where you are in the world, you can enjoy the opportunity to connect and expand your personal and professional networks.  


FLEXIBILITY
At CQUniversity, you can study courses online, on-campus or a combination of both. We are a leading distance education provider and one of the first Australian universities to offer flexible, mixed-mode study so you can study where and how it suits you.

We currently have more than 35 000 students spread across more than 20 locations Australia-wide. Whether you prefer the bustling city life or the relaxed pace of a regional location, we offer more than 20 study locations including campuses and study centres/hubs in Adelaide, Biloela, Brisbane, Broome, Bundaberg, Busselton, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Melbourne, Perth, Rockhampton, Sydney and Townsville.

Explore how you can be what you want to be at CQUniversity Australia.

Visit cqu.edu.au
.

Available programs

At CQUniversity Australia you can choose from a wide variety of vocational and university qualifications. With seamless pathways between short courses, certificates and diplomas, through to undergraduate, postgraduate and research higher degrees, we can help you be what you want to be.

With over 300 courses to choose from, and a range of entry pathways, no matter your goals, we can help you get there.

VOCATIONAL COURSES
We offer a wide variety of vocational courses which are designed to deliver workplace specific skills. You can study by progressing upwards though the levels, expanding your practical skills and knowledge to improve your work readiness. You can generally start a vocational course in either Term 1 or 2.

Our certificate and diploma courses can also provide a pathway into selected bachelor courses at CQUniversity if you do not meet the entry requirements.

Explore your study options at www.cqu.edu.au/international-students.

START UNI NOW (SUN)
SUN is a CQUniversity initiative that gives you the opportunity to study CQUniversity units while in senior high school. SUN allows you to enrol in a range of CQUniversity units (subjects) online, which you can combine with your regular high school work.

Find out more about SUN at www.cqu.edu.au/sun.

CQUENGLISH

CQUEnglish language centres are located on our Brisbane, Melbourne, Rockhampton North and Sydney campuses. In addition to providing a range of courses to prepare international students for academic study, they regularly conduct study tours for a diverse range of groups for over 20 years.

Find out more about CQUEnglish at www.cqu.edu.au/cquenglish.

UNDERGRADUATE COURSES

CQUniversity offers a wide range of study areas to suit your individual needs and interests. We offer a diverse range of courses to help you achieve your future study or career ambition.

Whether you’re looking to further your skills and knowledge in your chosen field, gain a professional qualification or explore a new career direction, CQUniversity has the postgraduate course to suit your needs.

With a postgraduate degree, you can enhance your employment prospects, increase your earning potential and satisfy your intellectual curiosity.

COURSEWORK STUDY OPTIONS

Graduate Certificate
Provides specialised study in a specific subject area, with the opportunity to progress to a graduate diploma and/or masters upon completion. Many CQUniversity graduate certificate courses are designed as a pathway for those who have not studied a bachelor degree but have relevant professional experience.

Graduate Diploma

Enables you to develop skills in a specialised area, or equip you with the knowledge to undertake a new career direction. Graduate diplomas are designed for those who have already completed a bachelor degree or equivalent, or have significant professional or industry experience in a relevant area.

Masters by Coursework

Comprises a series of specialist courses designed to extend your professional understanding in a particular subject area, or provide you with the opportunity to move in a new professional direction. Postgraduate coursework courses have a structure consisting of core and elective units, and therefore require students to enrol in these units, attend timetabled classes and complete required assignments

RESEARCH STUDY OPTIONS

Masters by Research
Enables you to undertake original research in a particular area of interest under supervision and resulting in the submission of a thesis.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Awarded on the basis of a thesis prepared under supervision that makes an original, significant and extensive contribution to knowledge and understanding in the relevant field of study, as judged by independent experts applying accepted contemporary international standards.

Doctor of Education
A professionally based research higher degree available through the University as an alternative to the traditional research courses. It offers a rigorous course combining structured advanced research tasks and a thesis component.

Doctor of Professional Studies
An internationally recognised higher research degree designed to produce innovation in commercial, government, educational and other applied settings. Whereas the PhD, EdD and other ‘professional’ doctorates are single-discipline based, the CQUniversity Doctor of Professional Studies is explicitly transdisciplinary to reflect the way research is carried out in industry and government.

WEALTH OF CHOICE

Choose from postgraduate study options in:

»    Business, Accounting and Law
»    Creative, Performing and Visual Arts
»    Education and Humanities
»    Engineering and Built Environment
»    Health
»    Information Technology and Digital Media
»    Psychology, Social Work and Community Services
»    Science and Environment


University information

CQUniversity Australia  offers a wide variety of university qualifications with seamless pathways between short courses, certificates and diplomas, through to undergraduate, postgraduate and research higher degrees to help you be what you want to be.

Explore your options and discover everything you need to know about how to apply .

General

6+
75+
169+
54+
24+
60+
1050+
590+
2.3+

Bachelor

1100+
2.5+
58+
6+
75+

Master

500+
2.5+
6.5+
79+

CQUniversity Australia has one of the largest national footprints of any university in Australia, providing you with the opportunity to study at one of our many locations across the country, with a range of state-of-the-art facilities available. We’re also one of Australia’s leading providers of online learning, with the resources and support to help you succeed from wherever you are based.

STUDY ONLINE

CQUniversity provides you with the flexibility to tailor your study to suit your lifestyle. Benefit from the support and expertise of a university with over 40 years’ experience delivering distance education. As one of Australia’s largest online learning providers, we offer over 200 courses online, allowing you to balance study with family and work commitments. With over half of our Australian students regularly choosing to study online, we are committed to providing a quality virtual experience. Online students have the added benefit of accessing services and support at any of our national locations. Plus, many of our courses are designed to allow you to move between on-campus and online delivery so you can expect a seamless transition between the two.


STUDY ON CAMPUS 

Each campus is unique and offers an assortment of on- and off-campus facilities and services, coupled with carefully-planned program and course offerings. If you want to live, study and play while taking in the bustling and diverse nature that is a city, look at our metro campuses spread across four of Australia’s capital cities. Alternatively, if you prefer the lower-key, relaxed pace of the countryside, we’ve got a regional campus that will suit you.


LIVE AND STUDY IN OUR CAPITAL CITIES

Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney CBD locations offer state-of-the-art multi-storey study and recreational environments, the convenience of public transport options, and a multitude of dining, shopping and entertainment venues.

REGIONAL AUSTRALIA LIVING AND STUDYING

Our regional Queensland campuses in Bundaberg, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, and Rockhampton boast some of Queensland’s most scenic locales, plus strong community and industry connections. Northern Queensland locations in Cairns and Townsville offer you the perfect mix of regional living and city amenities with convenient CBD campuses.

3,554
63%
37%
1,467
22%
78%
457
58%
42%

Student life

With a strong focus on student experience, CQUniversity helps you build study into your desired lifestyle. The latest student survey results also show the majority of CQUniversity students rate their overall student experience positively. Each location has its own personality and range of social activities, giving you lots of opportunities to network with your fellow students and make new friends.

SOCIAL LIFE

CQUniversity offers a vibrant and active campus life for students right across our entire campus network. Campus activities include live music, networking events, exercise classes, free coffee days, outdoor movies and more. Many of our locations also offer a range of student recreation facilities such as gyms and sports areas, food outlets, cafés, bars, games areas, and lounge and entertainment zones.

STUDENT SUPPORT

Services include orientation to assist your transition to university life, assignment and exam preparation and support evenings, ongoing assistance through the Student Mentor Program, counselling services, support for students with a disability or medical conditions, career planning services.

Students can also access our Academic Learning Centre, which offers information, support, advice, and resources related to many of the academic communication, mathematics and statistics, science and computing requirements of the study.

INTERNATIONALSTUDENT SUPPORT

Together with the Campus Life Committees and Student Experience teams across the University, we aim to provide ongoing support for all international students from arrival to graduation. Support services include:

  • pre-arrival information
  • accommodation assistance orientation
  • information on Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  • student mentor and leadership programs
  • career services
  • confidential counselling and welfare services
  • social activities and student forums
  • care arrangements for students under 18 years of age
  • students with families
  • going home program after completion of studies.


INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

The International Student Scholarship is CQUniversity’s merit-based scholarships that awards successful recipients with a reduction in their tuition fees throughout their studies. Other scholarships are available through the Australian government and external organisations:

·          Australia Awards

·          Destination Australia Scholarship

     Endeavour Awards

·          Research Training Program

·          Ministry of Religious Affairs Indonesia.

Find out more at www.cqu.edu.au/scholarships.

ACCOMMODATION

It is important to find the right place to live so you can focus on your studies. You can choose from a range of accommodation options to suit your needs and budget.

Homestay

Our preferred homestay provider is the Australian Homestay Network who will facilitate the arrangement and ensure you have a welcoming, safe and enjoyable experience.

Student Accommodation

Student One is the preferred accommodation provider for CQUniversity students in Brisbane. Our students enjoy an exclusive floor only in the Wharf St residence.

Scape is an endorsed provider of student accommodation to CQUniversity students in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

Private Accommodation

Off-campus accommodation such as flats, houses and shared accommodation can be found in the private rental market. You may look for these rental properties through property websites such as http://www.realestate.com.au and www.domain.com.au.

On-Campus Residence

Living on campus provides a great environment to live and study in. It offers ease and convenience to your university life.

Benefits include:

  • opportunity to make friends from all over the world and local Australian students
  • learn about different cultures
  • save money and time on travelling to campus– no car or public transport is required
  • increased safety with campus security and individually keyed rooms
  • opportunity to get involved with social, community and cultural activities
  • on-site manager and 24-hour live-in staff
  • access to Residential Life team for ongoing pastoral care
  • reduced fees for gym memberships.


Find out more about student life at CQUniversity Australia at cqu.edu.au/student-life.

At CQUniversity Australia, our courses are designed in collaboration with industry, allowing you to graduate work-ready. Our alumni experience outstanding graduate outcomes year-on-year, with more CQUniversity students finding full-time employment and earning higher salaries compared to national averages. 

CQUniversity’s career services offer regular career support workshops and other careers-focused services including CQUni Career Connection, CQUni Careers and CareerHub to help prospective and current students and graduates of the University in their job search and career development.

GRADUATE OUTCOMES

CQUniversity continues to be recognised as one of the top five universities in Australia for full-time employment and starting salary for undergraduate alumni. We also rank second in Australia for postgraduate starting salaries.

CQUniversity postgraduate alumni earn 17 per cent more than the national average, with median salaries for full-time employees at $97 300 (national average $83 500) within four months of graduating.

The QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022 ranks CQUniversity as one of the top 500 universities globally. With more than 28 000 universities globally, this places us among the top two per cent for graduate employability. These rankings are based on graduate employment rates, employer-student connections, university-employer partnerships, alumni outcomes and a university's reputation among employers.

Tuition fee and scholarships

Domestic Students

18,370 AUD
-

International Students

36,960 AUD
-

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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Rankings & ratings

Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia) is one of the top public universities in Norman Gardens, Australia. It is ranked #=495 in QS World University Rankings 2025.

QS World University Rankings

  • 2017
    #601-650
  • 2018
    #601-650
  • 2019
    #601-650
  • 2020
    #601-650
  • 2021
    #591-600
  • 2022
    #601-650
  • 2023
    #651-700
  • 2024
    #=590
  • 2025
    #=495
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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Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia) advanced Public Very High 8 yes 36960 1467 S 838