Top 10 Best Melbourne Universities 2023
Victorian universities are among the best in the world. The World Loves Melbourne has studied at various Australian universities and has been checking out the best Melbourne Universities. Australian universities are ranked by various ratings agencies including the Lisbon Council. Fifteen Australian universities made the top 250 universities according to the QS shortlist 2018/19 in international rankings, with Melbourne one of the best places to study in the world.
Melbourne is enhanced as a great student city by the fact that Melbourne is repeatedly ranked the world's most liveable city.
The top ten reasons to study in Melbourne according to a government website are -
1. World class education
2. Education credentials recognised by international institutions and employers
3. Top class facilities and academics
4. Portability of qualifications
5. Leading international student city
6. Top Asian Pacific education provider
7. Student support services
8. Multicultural society with scenic, healthy environment
9. Diverse range of cultural and sporting activities
10. Attractive cultural and outdoor lifestyle
Melbourne is a top destination for international students with about 28% of the student population from overseas.
Several Melbourne based universities are in the heart of the CBD where there are attractive accomodation options and the attraction of Melbourne city life with strong student scene, affordable dining, city attractions and the most liveable city in the world. Most students live off the campus but there are also halls of residence. Libraries are excellent places to study. Also many city based students use the iconic State Library of Victoria to study. Facilities are generally modern at Melbourne universities. Most universities have their own cafeterias, shops, banks, theatres, clubs and societies on campus. Most campuses have international student support advisors.
Here are some comments about Melbourne universities:
1. RMIT University (ranked 250 in world 2019)
With over 120 years of educational excellence, RMIT offers programs and courses ranging from postgraduate degrees by research to employment-focused diplomas and certificates. RMIT offers a global passport to study internationally with education that aligns with industry producing graduates that excel in an open world economy.
RMIT University is an applied teaching and research institute that focuses on design, technology, health, globalisation and sustainability. The City Campus of RMIT is situated right in the heart of Melbourne on La Trobe Street with other campuses in other Melbourne locations. One of the best locations for a University anywhere. RMIT have been adding to their facilities in recent times including a high grade complex on Swanston St.
Why study at RMIT? Says their website -
"RMIT is global, urban, connnected. Are you?
We have an international reputation for excellence in practical education and outcome-oriented research.
RMIT is a global university of technology and design and is Australia's largest tertiary institution.
We are a leader in technology, design, global business, comminication, global communities, health solutions and urban sustainable futures.
The 2014 Quacquarelli Symons (QS) ranked us in the world's top 100 universities in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Accounting and Finance, and Computer Science and Infoemation Systems.
Our graduates are among the biggest names in their fields and our links with some of the world's leading companies and innovators will give you the opportunity to broaden your skills, experience and networks beyond national borders.
RMIT uses the latest teching technologies to make a difference in the lives of our students and community. We have teching spaces that engage you in active learning and innovative curriculums that help you to graduate ready for work. Pathways between vocational and higher education offer flexible entry, or the option of qualifications combining the best of both.
Our work integrated learning opportunities allow you to put theory into practice. Our excellent teachers are recognised through national and discipline teaching awards. RMIT offers a transformative educational experience through its links with industry and global partners."
The new Swanston Academic Building offers collaborative learning spaces and with myDesktop (a virtual desktop) you can access your RMIT desktop and applications from home or wherever you have an internet connection.*
RMIT Gallery has been named among Melbourne's 10 best art spaces by The Culture Trip: http://bit.ly/1sOtcog (image credit above).
2. La Trobe University (397 in world 2019)
La Trobe University has a large campus in Bundoora in the suburbs of Melbourne. (Image credit La Trobe University Facebook).
Why study at La Trobe? Says the La Trobe University brochure -
3. Australian Catholic University (ranked 801-1000 in world 2019)
Australian Catholic University is in an excellent location on the edge of the CBD. The Melbourne Campus (St Patrick's) hosts more than 7,100 students including over 650 international students. (Image credit ACU Facebook page).
Why study at ACU? Says their website -
We're unique
Australian Catholic University (ACU) has seven campuses around Australia. We empower students to think critically, ethically and to bring about change in their communities and professions.
We value you
As a publicly-funded university, we welcome staff and students of all beliefs and backgrounds. We are committed to providing equal access to education for all people.
Practical experience
Students undertake professional placements and volunteer work throughout their studies, with many securing excellent jobs before they graduate.
Community engagement is also a core part of every student's experience at ACU, to the point where it's embedded within our courses. This allows students to give back to their communities and make a difference through opportunities such as volunteer experience programs.
More than study
ACU is a great place to meet people and have new experiences.
Each campus student association hosts events such as barbecues, balls and concerts. There are also clubs, societies and sporting events such as ACU Games and University Games.
Travel the world
ACU students can attend an overseas university in more than 16 countries, complete international internships, and work in community programs around the world – all while receiving credit towards their degree.
Your success
The Office of Student Success provides academic skills, career development and counselling services, as well as support for people with special needs or disabilities on each campus.
Campus Life Coordinators and the ACU National Student Association (ACUNSA) ensure students have the resources they need to achieve a healthy study/life balance.
Catholic intellectual tradition
ACU is Australia's leading Catholic university and is supported by more than 2,000 years of Catholic intellectual tradition. As a member of the International Federation of Catholic Universities, we are devoted to communicating truth in every field of knowledge through teaching and research, as well as promoting the dignity of all people and the common good.
4. Deakin University (309 in world 2019)
You're out of the city and into the suburbs of Melbourne with Deakin University, ranked equal 424 in the world in latest QS rankings. However Deakin University is one of Australia's leading universities with attractive campuses in Burwood (Melbourne), Geelong Waterfront, Waurrn Ponds, and Warrnambool.One of the most recent achievements is the involvement of Assoc. Prof. Tania de Koning-Ward, from the School of Medicine, in discovering a chink in the life cycle of malaria, offering hope for the development of new treatment options.
Deakin Learning Centres, located in Werribee, Dandenong and Craigieburn, give students in both regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne greater access to higher education by providing the opportunity to study close to home in a supported tertiary environment. A number of courses are available at each centre and are delivered via state-of-the-art technology.
Why study at Deakin? Says their website -
Deakin is forging a new path both locally and globally as a leading provider of innovative learning and a positive university experience. We are proud to be in the top 3 per cent of universities across all three of the major international university ranking systems (the Academic Ranking of World Universities, Times Higher Education World University Rankings and QS World University Rankings), assessed from 17 000 universities worldwide.
Our current achievements include:
- ranked in the world's top 50 universities under 50 years of age – QS World University Rankings
- 5 stars out of 5 for student retention – The Good Universities Guide
- 5 stars out of 5 for overall satisfaction – The Good Universities Guide
- named International Education Provider of the Year, and won awards for Excellence in Education (University) and Excellence in International Education (Student Employability and Careers) at theVictorian International Education Awards 2014
- ranked in the top 500 in The Academic Ranking of World Universities
- ranked number 325 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings
- ranked number 360 in the QS World University Rankings
- Deakin's education discipline ranked 23 in the world – QS World University Rankings by Subject 2014
- Deakin's MBA and Bachelor of Commerce are internationally recognised and EPAS accredited by the European Foundation for Management Development
- 5 star rating for our MBA from the Graduate Management Association of Australia and QS accreditation
- five Deakin staff members awarded Citations for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning at the 2013 Office for Learning and Teaching's Australian Awards for University Teaching
- receiving the top ranking of five – defined as well above world standard – in seven fields of research and a ranking of four – defined as above world standard – in 11 fields of research in the most recent Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) rankings
- winning seven Linkage awards in the latest Australian Research Council Outcomes for 2014 funding. This represented a success rate of 43.8 per cent against a national average success rate of 35.9 per cent and the funds awarded totaled more than $2.5m
- awarded two Australian Research Council Future Fellowships, a success rate of 33.3 per cent, which was well above the national average of 18 per cent and was the highest success rate of any Victorian university
- awarded the Victoria's Exporter of the Year award in Education and Training at the Governor of Victoria Export Awards.
5. Monash University (joint 59 in world 2019)
Monash University is ranked 88 in the world in the latest QS rankings and is the largest university in Australia... (Image credit Monash University Facebook).
Why study at Monash? According to their website -
Our rankings and what they mean
Monash is ranked in the top one per cent of world universities – 83rd in the world – according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (2014-2015). We have built our reputation on career-focused degrees, the highest academic standards and research that makes a difference.
More on our rankings and reputation
Prepare for a global workforce
Monash courses prepare you for the global workforce. At Monash, you take classes relevant to your chosen career from your first weeks on campus.
Eighty-nine per cent of Monash graduates are employed within six months. (QS World University Rankings 2009.)
You can also spend a semester or more at our international campuses and partners.
International students can undertake internships and professional year programs through Monash College's Professional Pathways Australiaafter they finish their degree.
Hear from our past international students
We are a known leader in the education of international students. Monash has more than 21,000 international students and expertise in hosting a range of nationalities. Listen to their experiences at Monash.
International locations
We have campuses in Australia, Malaysia and South Africa, and a research and teaching centre in Italy. We have strong partnerships with other universities around the world, including:
- Warwick University (UK)
- University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne (UK)
- Sichuan University (China)
- Arizona State University (USA)
Our staff
Monash targets talented staff. We have more than 15,000 staff around the world.
Our global links
Our research brings real and positive change to people all over the world. Our partnerships with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and other institutions help us build a global research network.
Alumni networks
Our alumni network includes around 270,000 graduates, with many working in leadership positions around the world.
6. Swinburne University (387 in world 2019)
Swinburne University is more of a vocational university and has its main campus in Hawthorn.... (Image credit Swinburne University Facebook page).
Why study at Swinburne? According to their website -
7. The University of Melbourne (ranked 39 in world 2019)
The University of Melbourne is the highest rank of Melbourne Universities in the QS rankings. It's also the oldest university in Victoria. (Image credit University of Melbourne Facebook).
Why study at University of Melbourne? Says their website -
Reputation for excellence
The University of Melbourne is Ranked #1 in Australia and #34 in the world in the prestigious Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
More scholarships for more students
Our scholarships and bursaries reward excellence, and assist students from a wide range of backgrounds.
Study your way
Flexible degrees, world-standard curriculum, 100 majors to choose from. We’ll help you discover your passion and reach your full potential.
Learn from the best
From day one of your degree, you’ll learn from renowned researchers and industry leaders recognised globally for their outstanding achievements. Your lecturers and tutors are passionate, brilliant, and dedicated to sharing their insights and discoveries with you.
Guaranteed entry into graduate degrees
Would you like to begin your undergraduate degree at Melbourne with the security of knowing a graduate place is reserved for you? If you’ve studied an Australian Year 12 or the IB in Australia, you could be eligible.
Equal opportunities
You belong, no matter where you come from. We understand that sometimes your circumstances can make it difficult to perform at your best, and we’re here to help.
Read about our Access Melbourne and Equity Programs
Campus at Melbourne’s heart
A city within a city – with its own postcode! The moment you step foot on campus at the University of Melbourne, you know it’s a special place.
Study overseas
Does studying French in Paris, business in New York City or architecture in Tuscany sound like your kind of university experience? It counts towards your degree, and you can go practically anywhere in the world!
Choose your overseas adventure
Live your future now
Learn in the real world with internships, leadership experiences and volunteering all offered to our undergraduate students. Some of the most exciting discoveries are made outside the classroom, which is why we encourage you to make practical learning part of your Melbourne experience.
Independent, but not alone
At Melbourne, we want to know who our students are. So as part of your transition to University, you will meet one-on-one with a specialist Student Connect adviser to talk about what uni’s all about, why you’re here, and where you want to go. We’ll inspire and support you to achieve your best.
8. Federation University Australia
Federation University Australia is a high performing university in regional Victoria.
Why study at Federation University Australia? Says their website -
With 5 stars for teaching quality** six years in a row - FedUni's the ideal place for you to learn to succeed.
There's a program to suit you
As one of Victoria's 5-star universities*, we offer over 400 programs - from short courses to degrees and beyond.
Browse our Program Finder to find out about what you can study and applying for our programs.
Discover your pathway to study
Pathways can help you transition through your study life and career. Whether you have an existing qualification that you want to consider credit options for, or you are looking for a pathway through an alternative entry method, we have options available to help you get there. Find out more
All the support you need
At FedUni we understand that starting your life as a university student is exciting, but that it also involves change with a challenge or two along the way.
To help you meet these challenges, and to succeed, we have developed the following range of student-focused programs including Student Futures Program, LEAP into Uni, Returning to study (FAST program)and support for students with disabilities. Find out more
Experience uni life
Our aim is to get you off on the right foot from day one, to meet new people and make new friends.
There are so many great opportunities for you to meet staff and students to make a smooth transition into university life.
You can get involved in a club, society or sports team on campus, or participate in recreational trips and activities held throughout the year. Find out more
Small class sizes
Our class sizes are smaller than most metropolitan institutions, meaning you can receive one-to-one assistance directly from your lecturer or tutor.
Get job ready
Our teaching facilities and equipment meet the very highest standards to ensure you are well prepared for industry and research.
Our programs are regularly reviewed to ensure they have national and international relevance. FedUni's close links with major industries play an important role in the design of our programs which will greatly benefit you as a new graduate.
We'll help you to succeed
- FedUni has the highest graduate employment rating of any Victorian-based university.
- Over 79% of our graduates are employed full-time^
- Over 14% of our graduates continue into full-time study^
- Our graduates have rated us 5 stars for overall satisfaction*
*Source: The Good Uni Guide 2014
**Source: The Good Uni Guide 2010/2011/2012/2013/2014/2015
^Source: myuniversity.gov.au
9. Victoria University (ranked 651-800 in world 2019)
Victoria University has an affinity with the Western suburbs of Melbourne.
Melbourne's western region is one of the fastest growing areas of Australia, with some 40,000 organisations focused mainly on innovation and growth. They collaborate with several of these organisations to improve local communities and enhance the lives of those living and working there.
Their partnerships and collaborations include:
- Western Bulldogs
- Melbourne Vixens
- City West Water
- Western Health
- Western Jets Football Club
- Malthouse Theatre
- Maribyrnong, Hume and Hobsons Bay City Councils
- Footscray Community Arts Centre.
They are collaborating with Maribyrnong City Council to transform the suburb of Footscray over the next 10 years into ‘Footscray University Town’ to nurture, promote, and integrate the renaissance in art, education, sport and innovation now taking place in this region.
Why study at Victoria University? Says their website -
As a student at Victoria University (VU), you will have the opportunity to define your own meaning of true success. We are here to help you grow as an individual and enjoy the ride.
With flexible entry and exit points into our courses, academic and personal support, and one of the broadest range of scholarships of any university in Australia, victory awaits you.
Our industry connections means you will have access to workplace learning opportunities. This allows you to graduate with real-world experience.
VU is one of the few universities in the country to offer both vocational training (VE/TAFE) and higher education with highly accessible pathways from one to the other. So you can achieve your dream job without your ATAR score holding you back.
Whatever your home country and culture, social or economic and educational background, we can help you achieve success on your own terms.
In 'Why choose VU?':
- Industry connections
We have services and options to help you advance your career: from general career advice, CV and interview preparation skills, to workplace learning in our courses. - Flexibility to succeed
We have flexible learning pathways between vocational (VE/TAFE) and higher education so you can enter at various points and exit when you’ve reached your study goals.
- We are leaders in sport
Our outstanding reputation in sport, exercise and active living is built by extensive course offerings, innovative research, state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff.
- Our community
University isn't just about study. Learn about what else we have to offer and get involved with our vibrant and multicultural VU community.
- Work-ready graduates
Meet some of our work-ready graduates who describe how they have found success at university or in their careers.