SCU is a regional university recognised for research in global rankings.
Southern Cross University is ranked #713 in the world, based on a composite of QS, Times, and Webometrics rankings. In Australia, SCU is ranked #32 out of 42 universities.
Southern Cross University (SCU) is a regional university that offers online degrees. SCU is based in Lismore, a small city in northern New South Wales near the Queensland border. The university was created in 1994 out of satellite campuses of the University of New England.
Website: scu.edu.au | Campuses: Lismore, Coffs Harbour [NSW], Gold Coast [QLD]
SCU World Ranking
Global Ranking: 713
Southern Cross University is ranked #713 in the world. It ranks just outside the top 500 with QS and Times.
QS ranking: 576
Times Higher Education: 550
ARWU: Unranked
Webometrics: 876
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 32
Southern Cross University is ranked #32 in Australia out of 42 universities. A modest ranking is to be expected for a smaller, regional university. SCU outperforms the much larger Charles Sturt University in New South Wales.
Above: USQ (29), CQUniversity (30), Charles Darwin University (31)
Below: Victoria University (33), Bond University (34), CSU (35)
Is Southern Cross University Good?
Southern Cross University (SCU) serves students near the NSW-Queensland coastal border, with campuses in Lismore, Coffs Harbour, and the Gold Coast. These locations allow students to study close to home while enjoying quality facilities and support.
Serving northern NSW
Online learning
Accessible courses
SCU is known for providing flexible online learning, making it easier for students to balance studies with other commitments. Accessible course pathways, including entry programs for high school students, further open doors for students to reach their education goals.
Satisfaction: 78.2%
Southern Cross University reviews show satisfaction levels of 72.1% for bachelor degrees and 84.2% for postgraduate students. The postgraduate ratings are well above the national average. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 17,245
Southern Cross University had a total of 17,245 students in 2023, making it the 35th largest university in Australia. SCU is the 10th biggest uni in New South Wales.
- International students: 4,108 (24%)
- Postgraduate students: 5,140 (30%)
- Gender ratio: 67% Female : 33% Male
- On-campus students: 8,733 (51%)
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: 80%
The Southern Cross University acceptance rate is 80%. Among students with an ATAR that qualifies for university, 20% are unable to be admitted into their preferred degree.
Required ATAR: 60
It is easy to get into SCU, with a minimum ATAR of 60 on average. At the time of publishing, the ATAR threshold was 60 for Arts, Bachelor of Business, and Science degrees.
Is Southern Cross University Online?
Yes, Southern Cross University (SCU) offers a variety of online courses. Around 4,370 bachelor and 3,618 postgraduate students study online, making up about 49% of the student population. Popular fields of study at SCU Online include Education, and Society and Culture. SCU is considered an open university due to its significant online enrolment.