Douglas Olsen
The University of Sydney is one of the world's leading comprehensive research and teaching universities. It was founded in 1850 and is Australia's oldest university. The university has a community of more than 69,000 students, 8,400 permanent and fixed-term staff, and over 430,000 alumni in more than 170 countries. The university offers more than 500 areas of study and is ranked 19th globally in the 2023 QS World University Rankings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1850 |
| Location | Camperdown/Darlington campus, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |
| Student population | 69,000+ or 70,000+ |
| Number of international students | N/A |
| Number of academic staff | 8,400 or 8,000 |
| Number of alumni | 430,000+ or 350,000+ |
| Number of disciplines | 500+ or 400+ |
| Ranking | 18th or 19th in the world; 2nd in Australia |
What You'll Learn
The University of Sydney's student population
The University of Sydney, founded in 1850, is the oldest university in Australia and Oceania. It has a student population of over 69,000, with more than 8,400 permanent and fixed-term staff and over 430,000 alumni in more than 170 countries. The university offers a wide range of disciplines, with more than 500 areas of study.
The university is located across two main campuses: Camperdown and Darlington, three kilometres from the city centre. The Camperdown/Darlington campus is home to the administrative headquarters and faculties of Arts, Science, Education and Social Work, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science, Economics and Business, Architecture, and Engineering. It is also where the majority of student life takes place, with the student-run University of Sydney Union occupying three buildings. The university also has a CBD campus, as well as several other campuses and research facilities in Sydney and across Australia.
The University of Sydney is one of the world's leading research-intensive universities, with over 90 research centres dedicated to solving global challenges. It was one of the first universities in the world to admit students based solely on academic merit and to offer equal opportunities for women. The university has produced five Nobel laureates, eight prime ministers, and 110 Rhodes Scholars.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a focus on hands-on experience and preparing students for the workplace. It also provides opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, with over 200 clubs and societies, as well as access to sporting facilities, museums, galleries, and study spaces.
American Students in Germany: Free University Education?
You may want to see also
The University of Sydney's founding principles
The University of Sydney was founded in 1850 as Australia's first university. It was established as a public, non-denominational, and secular university, driven by the belief that education should be accessible to all. The university's founding principles were centred around creating an inclusive and collaborative academic environment, promoting merit-based admission, and fostering leadership and positive societal change.
From its inception, the University of Sydney aimed to provide an education that was inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of social or religious status. This principle of "education for all" is a core value that has guided the university's commitment to diversity, equity, and the pursuit of excellence. The university was one of the first in the world to admit students based solely on academic merit, rather than religious or social status, setting a precedent for meritocracy in higher education.
The University of Sydney also has a strong commitment to leadership development and believes in the power of education to inspire positive change. The university's founders recognised that education could foster leadership and drive progress in communities. This principle has guided the university's focus on producing leaders who can serve their communities and contribute to society.
In addition to these foundational principles, the University of Sydney prioritises research and innovation. The university's research endeavours are driven by a desire to address global challenges and make a positive impact on the world. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, the university aims to find solutions to complex problems, such as deadly diseases, technological advancements, and social inequalities.
The University of Sydney also values its role in promoting cultural diversity and combatting racism. It strives to create an environment that celebrates diversity, eliminates discrimination, and advances gender equity by promoting women in leadership and education.
Overall, the University of Sydney's founding principles revolve around accessibility, inclusivity, meritocracy, leadership development, and the pursuit of positive change through education and research. These principles continue to guide the university's mission and values as it strives to make a meaningful impact on its communities and the world.
Discover Chapman University's Student Population and Campus Life
You may want to see also
The University of Sydney's global rankings
The University of Sydney is ranked 18th in the world by QS World University Rankings 2025, second nationally, and the top-ranked university in New South Wales. It is also ranked 61st in the World University Rankings 2025. The university is also ranked 18th globally and 7th in the world for Sustainability by the 2025 QS University World Rankings and 2024 QS Sustainability Rankings.
The University of Sydney is ranked highly in several subjects. In the QS Rankings by Subject 2024, it is ranked in the top 20 in six disciplines and in the top 50 in 36 disciplines. The university is also ranked highly in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, U.S. News & World Report's Best Global Universities Rankings, and Academic Ranking of World Universities published by the Shanghai Ranking Consultancy.
The University of Sydney Business School is one of the world's leading providers of business education, with accreditations from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, making it one of the top 1% of business schools globally.
Universities in Asia: Welcoming Refugee Students?
You may want to see also
The University of Sydney's notable alumni
The University of Sydney has educated many notable alumni, including:
Politics and Law
- Edmund Barton, the first Prime Minister of Australia
- Anthony Albanese, incumbent Prime Minister of Australia
- Gough Whitlam, former Prime Minister of Australia
- Malcolm Turnbull, former Prime Minister of Australia
- William McMahon, former Prime Minister of Australia
- Tony Abbott, former Prime Minister of Australia
- Gladys Berejiklian, former Premier of New South Wales
- Geoffrey Robertson, international human rights lawyer
- Michael Kirby, lawmaker
Science and Medicine
- Sir John Cornforth, winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry
- John Bradfield, lead engineer for the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Dr Victor Chang, pioneer heart surgeon
- Professor Graeme Clark, inventor of the first cochlear ear implant
- Sir Gustav Nossal, immunologist
- Sir John Eccles, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
- Sir Bernard Katz, winner of the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology
- Robert May, Baron May of Oxford
- John O'Sullivan, originator of wireless technology and inventor of Wi-Fi
- Ruby Payne-Scott, first female radio astronomer
- David Warren, inventor of the "black box" flight data recorder
- Professor Marie Bashir, first female Governor of New South Wales
Arts and Entertainment
- Dame Joan Sutherland, opera singer
- Rose Byrne, actress
- Peter Weir, film director
- Clive James, author, critic, journalist, and broadcaster
- Geraldine Brooks, Pulitzer Prize-winning author
- Colleen McCullough, author of The Thorn Birds
- Elle Macpherson, model, actress, and businesswoman
- Julian McMahon, actor
- Jacqueline Fernandez, actress and model
- Dolph Lundgren, actor, filmmaker, and martial artist
- Peter FitzSimons, journalist and rugby player
- John Bell, actor, theatre director, and impresario
- Jane Campion, director, producer, and screenwriter
- Chris Taylor, comedian
- Charles Firth, comedian
- Andrew Hansen, comedian and musician
- Tom Gleeson, comedian, radio and television presenter
- Craig Reucassel, comedian, radio and television presenter
- Chas Licciardello, comedian
- Julian Morrow, comedian and television producer
- Alex Cubis, actor
- Anne Boyd, composer and first female Professor of Music at the University of Sydney
- Yvonne Kenny, soprano
- Roger Woodward, pianist, composer, and conductor
- Kip Williams, director of the Sydney Theatre Company
Sports
- Ellyse Perry, cricketer and footballer
- Jessica Fox, slalom canoer and Olympic gold medallist
- Nick Farr-Jones, rugby player
- Michelle Jenneke, track and field athlete and model
- Phil Waugh, rugby player
- Sir Charles Mackerras, rugby player
Exploring Acadia University's Student Population
You may want to see also
The University of Sydney's research centres
The University of Sydney is a leading research university with over 150 research centres and networks that bring together researchers from various fields to address global challenges. Here is an overview of some of its notable research centres:
The Brain and Mind Centre
The Brain and Mind Centre takes a collaborative approach to mental health and neurological disease research. It brings together patients, support groups, carers, scientists, and clinicians to advance understanding and treatment of conditions like depression and Parkinson's.
Sydney Net Zero Institute
The Sydney Net Zero Institute is dedicated to finding practical solutions for decarbonisation and supporting the global transition to net-zero emissions by 2050. It plays a crucial role in addressing climate change, one of the most pressing issues of our time.
The Charles Perkins Centre
The Charles Perkins Centre tackles major health challenges such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and related conditions. Through its research, the centre aims to improve the health and well-being of people worldwide.
The Sydney Policy Lab
The Sydney Policy Lab fosters collaborations for lasting policy change. It focuses on strengthening democracy, reducing inequality, and empowering communities. The lab recognises the importance of policy in driving positive societal transformation.
The Sydney Environment Institute
The Sydney Environment Institute takes a multidisciplinary approach to climate change research. It brings together social sciences and humanities perspectives to explore how we identify, experience, and adapt to a changing climate.
The Sydney Southeast Asia Centre
With over 400 academics, the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre focuses on economic and social reform in Southeast Asia. Its research spans a wide range of topics, including infectious diseases and the environment. The centre aims to deepen understanding and facilitate reform in the region.
The University of Sydney Nano Institute
The Nano Institute pushes the boundaries of nanoscience and its applications in biosecurity, green energy, and medicine. It is at the forefront of innovating and developing cutting-edge technologies.
The Sydney Biomedical Accelerator
The Sydney Biomedical Accelerator is a first-of-its-kind precinct in Australia that aims to accelerate the translation of discoveries into healthcare solutions. It serves as a hub for innovation and collaboration in biomedicine.
The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics
The Lambert Initiative is a pioneering research centre focused on advancing cannabinoid-based treatments. It explores the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids to address various health challenges and improve patient outcomes.
The Centre for Drug Discovery Innovation
The Centre for Drug Discovery Innovation is dedicated to fostering innovative treatments for improved health outcomes. It serves as an incubator for novel therapies and drug discovery initiatives.
The Sydney Vietnam Institute
The Sydney Vietnam Institute acts as a bridge between Australia and Vietnam. It facilitates cultural and intellectual exchange between the two nations, strengthening ties and promoting mutual understanding.
The Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis
Based in the Faculty of Engineering, this centre provides access to advanced microscopy equipment and expertise. It supports multidisciplinary research and collaboration across the university, enabling high-end investigations in various fields.
The Centre for Advanced Food Engineering
The Centre for Advanced Food Engineering focuses on developing sustainable food systems and promoting health and nutrition. It plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and improving public health.
The John Grill Institute for Project Leadership
The John Grill Institute takes a multifaceted approach to project leadership. It advances research, delivers executive education, and engages with industry, government, and communities to shape the future of project management.
The Australian Centre for Robotics
The Australian Centre for Robotics is at the forefront of research, development, and application of autonomous and intelligent robots. It collaborates closely with industry to maximise the benefits of robotics and intelligent systems.
Universities' Legal Duty to Accommodate Students with Disabilities
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The University of Sydney has more than 70,000 students, including undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The University of Sydney is one of the largest universities in Australia by student population, along with Monash University, the University of Melbourne, RMIT University, and the University of New South Wales.
The University of Sydney has a large international student population, with students from over 170 countries.
The University of Sydney has a student-to-staff ratio of approximately 9:1, with over 70,000 students and 8,000 staff members.
The University of Sydney offers a wide range of academic programs, with more than 400 areas of study across 16 academic divisions, including Agriculture, Engineering, Business, and Medicine.
