Southern Cross University (SCU)

Established in 1994, Southern Cross University (SCU) is a dynamic public university located on Australia's picturesque east coast. With a strong emphasis on practical learning, sustainability, and community engagement, SCU offers a unique educational experience to students from around the world.

Why Choose SCU?

• Global Recognition: SCU has been ranked among the top 500 universities globally in the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, marking a significant improvement of over 80 places from the previous year.

• Innovative Learning Model: The university employs a six-week term structure, allowing for intensive learning and faster progression through courses.

• Supportive Environment: SCU provides comprehensive support services for international students, including orientation programs, academic assistance, and career counseling.

Campus Locations

SCU boasts several campuses across Australia:

• Gold Coast, Queensland: A vibrant campus located adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport, offering a modern learning environment.

• Lismore, New South Wales: Set among 75 hectares of lush, natural beauty, providing a tranquil setting for study.

• Coffs Harbour, New South Wales: Home to the renowned National Marine Science Centre, ideal for marine studies.

• Metropolitan Campuses: Located in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, offering students the opportunity to study in Australia's major cities

Types of Courses (Study Levels)

SCU offers a wide range of programs across various study levels:

• Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor's degrees and diplomas in fields such as business, education, health, and science.

• Postgraduate Degrees: Master's degrees and graduate certificates/diplomas for advanced study.

• Higher Degree Research: Opportunities for MPhil and PhD studies in diverse research areas.

• Short Courses and Microcredentials: Professional development programs designed to enhance specific skills and knowledge.

Mode of Learning

SCU provides flexible learning options to accommodate various needs:

• On-Campus Learning: Traditional face-to-face classes at the regional campuses.

• Online Learning: Fully online programs designed for remote learners, offering flexibility and convenience.

• Blended Learning: A combination of online and on-campus learning, providing a balanced approach to education.

Number of Programs Offered

SCU offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines. While the exact number of programs is not specified, the university provides numerous undergraduate, postgraduate, and research opportunities to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of its students.

Highlights

• Top 500 Global Ranking: SCU has joined the ranks of the globe's top 500 universities in the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

• Industry-Relevant Programs: The university has launched new Industry Graduate Certificates in areas such as Neurodiversity, Circular Economy, Small Business Leadership, and Early Childhood Education Leadership to meet the evolving needs of the job market.

• Research Excellence: SCU continues to strengthen its research capabilities, with recent developments including a new AI-based audio classifier for threatened frog species and a grant for hemp research

Scholarship

1. Access25 Initiative

• Overview: SCU has introduced the Access25 initiative, setting a unified annual tuition fee of AUD 25,000 for most international students in 2025. This initiative aims to simplify fee structures and make education more accessible.

• Eligibility: Applies to all new and continuing international students, excluding certain programs like the Master of Nursing, Bachelor of Veterinary Technology, The Hotel School courses, research courses, Study Abroad, and English language courses.

2. Southern Cross Global Regional Scholarship

• Value: AUD 8,000 per year (8 units per year) for the duration of your program.

• Eligibility:

  • Commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree in 2024 or 2025.

  • Studying at the Lismore or Coffs Harbour campus.

  • Excludes quota-restricted programs (e.g., Master of Nursing).

• Application: Automatic consideration upon admission application.

3. Vice Chancellor’s International Diversification Scholarship

• Value: AUD 8,000 per year (8 units per year) for the duration of your program.

• Eligibility:

  • Commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree in 2024 or 2025.

  • Studying at the Gold Coast, Lismore, or Coffs Harbour campus.

  • International students on a non-student visa studying online may also be eligible.

  • Excludes quota-restricted programs (e.g., Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood and Master of Nursing).

• Application: Automatic consideration upon admission application.

4. Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Scholarship

• Value: AUD 8,000 per year (8 units per year) for the duration of your program.

• Eligibility:

  • Exceeding the minimum admission entry requirements with consistently high academic performance.

  • Commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree in 2024 or 2025.

  • Studying at the Gold Coast, Lismore, or Coffs Harbour campus.

  • Excludes quota-restricted programs (e.g., Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood and Master of Nursing).

• Application: Automatic consideration upon admission application.

5. Destination Australia Scholarship

• Value: AUD 7,500 for six months.

• Eligibility:

  • Undertaking a full-time undergraduate degree at SCU's Lismore or Coffs Harbour campus.

  • Applications close on 8 August.

6. Higher Degrees Scholarships

• Overview: SCU offers various scholarships for higher degree research students, including PhD and Master's programs.

• Eligibility:

  • Meeting the entry requirements for a PhD or Master's program.

  • Specific scholarships may have additional criteria.

Additional Information

• Access25 Initiative: Under Access25, SCU has introduced a clear, unified annual tuition fee for all new and continuing international students for a range of courses in 2025. This transition reflects SCU's commitment to delivering excellence with a straightforward tuition model, ensuring every student has equal access to outstanding education and career outcomes.

• Scholarship Withdrawal: Some scholarships have been withdrawn for 2025 due to the introduction of the Access25 initiative. For instance, the International Merit Scholarship has been withdrawn as SCU has reduced international student tuition fees for a range of courses in 2025.