Why study at Swinburne?
Guaranteed industry experience, next-generation facilities and a creative community. Find out why we’re in the world's top 300 universities and join the students launching their careers at Swinburne.
Over our 115-year history, our commitment to industry collaboration and innovation has shaped everything we do. That’s why we’re #1 in Victoria1 and ranked in the world's top 300 universities.2
Choose Swinburne to study at a progressive university at the forefront of technology and industry-integrated learning, and join the next generation of change-makers and future thinkers.
Six reasons why you should study at Swinburne
At Swinburne, we’re on a mission to bring people and technology together to build a better world.
With us, you can achieve your study and career goals through a wide range of courses and pathways, with smaller class sizes for more one-on-one attention and mentorship.
And whether you’re studying on campus, in the workplace or online, you’ll always be part of our innovative and creative community.
If you’re still weighing up your options, here are six reasons to choose Swinburne.
1. Study at a uni with world-class academic rankings
We’ve got a global reputation for quality teaching, research and graduate outcomes. And our commitment to excellence means we feature in top world academic rankings year in, year out.
But that’s just the beginning. Learn more about our ratings and rankings.
#1 in Victoria
Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024
Top 300 globally
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
Top 1% globally
QS World University Rankings 2024
Want to see the full list? Explore Swinburne rankings and ratings.
2. Guaranteed industry experience to get you ahead
For over 60 years, we've worked with local and global industry partners to shape our curriculum and give our students real-world experience.
It’s why we have internships, paid placements, professional degrees and industry-linked projects that give you the skills and confidence to kick start your dream career – all before you graduate. We call it Work Integrated Learning, and it’s a guarantee in all our bachelor degrees.
But don’t just take our word for it, hear what our students have to say.
Tom | Erebus Motorsport
“There’s a big element of trust involved with this industry, so to come in as a graduate having worked in this category before – it was really important.”
Michelle | Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
“I assisted in studies aimed at identifying and solving real-world health challenges faced by people with cancer.”
Osama | Richmond Football Club
"The flexibility and freedom to have personal input was something that I valued and most enjoyed about the internship.”
3. Learn from those who do – not only teach
Our reputation means we attract world-renowned academics who produce cutting-edge work in their fields, improving lives and solving real problems.
In fact, no less than seven Swinburne researchers are listed in Stanford University’s Top 2% of the Most-Cited Scientists. To name a few recent achievements, we’re home to:
- World-first research which uses virtual reality to help treat auditory hallucinations.
- A breakthrough study of Earth’s closest neuron star on the brink of becoming a black hole.
- A convention-shattering reinvention of game design education using fantasy worlds.
How’s that for trailblazing?
In every study area, our academics are ready to share their expertise and industry experience with you.
Michelle Cluver, Associate Professor | Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies
An expert in the evolution of galaxies and the chemistry of star formation, Michelle teaches Swinburne students while pushing the boundaries of celestial knowledge in her research.
Dan Golding, Associate Professor | Media and Communications
Dan is a Swinburne researcher and teacher with a world-class creative practice, including the award-winning soundtrack for Untitled Goose Game and the ABC News Daily theme music.
Bridgette Engeler, Senior Lecturer | Business, Law and Entrepreneurship
A practicing academic and futurist, Bridgette juggles teaching strategic foresight and innovation at Swinburne alongside her research investigating the use of futures in design.
4. Thrive in next-generation facilities
We continually invest in our facilities so you can study in state-of-the-art spaces. Like our $100 million Advanced Manufacturing and Design Centre, Neuroimaging Facility, OzSTAR and Ngarru Tindebeek supercomputers, French-Australian Centre for Energy Transition and more.
Why? Because hands-on learning with the latest technology helps prepare you for placements and your future. We’ll give you an edge on the competition, and all the resources you need to launch your career with confidence.
Take our Physiotherapy Lab, for example, where physiotherapy students can practice and stretch their skills. And in construction and infrastructure, students can put their ideas to the test on the Axiom hologram table in the Construction Simulation Hub.
Across subject areas, Swinburne students get a next-generation classroom experience in our innovative Digital Teaching Spaces, catering to different learning styles in a blended environment.*
*These spaces are expected to be ready for use in Semester 1, 2025.
5. Choose flexible study options that fit into your life
At Swinburne, there are countless, flexible ways to study that can be tailored to suit you. Depending on your course, you’ll have the option to study part-time, online or spread your study load across Summer and Winter terms.
Explore course delivery options
We know study is just one part of your life. That’s why we offer flexible course structures and delivery options.
How to enrol in Summer and Winter terms
A great way to fast-track your course, and it’s available for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Industry-connected VET pathways
We’re a dual-sector university, which means you can forge a path to further qualifications via our VET programs.
6. Jump into uni life and find your people
We're proud of our creative, inclusive and supportive community. And we know that our differences are what make us stronger — like smaller class sizes, vibrant campuses, and an environment where you can be unapologetically you. You’ll find your people at Swinburne, whether that’s in a lab, a lecture or a late-night study session.
Clubs and societies
Use your voice, have fun and try something new.
Campus life
Feel at home and find your favourite hang-out spot.
On-campus living
Close to class, friends and Melbourne’s CBD.
Keep on exploring
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Life at Swinburne
At Swinburne, we know that your studies are important, but there is more to university than classes and lectures. Find out more about the opportunities we offer to make your time studying with us a memorable experience.
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Student support services
Need support? Swinburne’s student support services can help with your studies, career, health and wellbeing, accommodation, child care, IT, safety and more. -
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