USC makes it onto lists of the top 1000 universities in the world.
The University of the Sunshine Coast is ranked #876 in the world, based on a composite of QS, Times, ARWU, and Webometrics rankings. In Australia, USC is ranked #36 out of 42 universities.
The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is a medium-sized university located centrally in the Sunshine Coast region. USC started in 1994 and has steadily grown. The main campus is on a 100-hectare site at Sippy Downs, just a short drive from the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast. The University has also established several study locations in nearby urban centres.
Website: usc.edu.au | Campuses: Sunshine Coast (Sippy Downs), Moreton Bay, Hervey Bay, Gympie [QLD]
USC World Ranking
Global Ranking: 876
University of the Sunshine Coast is ranked #876 in the world. It ranks among the 1,000 leading universities globally.
QS ranking: 1100
Times Higher Education: 700
ARWU: 750
Webometrics: 952
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 36
University of the Sunshine Coast is ranked #36 in Australia out of 42 universities. A low ranking is to be expected for a smaller, regional university. SCU outperforms some larger institutions such as Torrens University Australia.
Above: Victoria University (33), Bond University (34), CSU (35)
Below: Federation University (37), UNE (38), Torrens University (39)
Is USC a Good University?
The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is known for accessible education and scenic campus locations. It offers strong undergraduate programs with above-average satisfaction, particularly in fields like health, education, and environmental science.
USC’s campuses, including those on the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, and Moreton Bay, offer a relaxed study environment with modern facilities.
Satisfaction: 81.0%
The University of the Sunshine Coast reviews show an above-average satisfaction rate of 82.3% for bachelor degrees. Postgraduate satisfaction is at 79.6%, close to national averages. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 17,987
The University of the Sunshine Coast had a total of 17,987 students in 2023, making it the 34th largest university in Australia. USC is the 7th biggest uni in Queensland.
- International students: 1,921 (11%)
- Postgraduate students: 1,428 (8%)
- Gender ratio: 69% Female : 31% Male
- On-campus students: 15,650 (87%)
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: 90%
The University of the Sunshine Coast acceptance rate is 90%. Among students with an ATAR that qualifies for university, 10% are unable to be admitted into their preferred degree.
Required ATAR: 55
It is very easy to get into USC, with a minimum ATAR of 55 on average. At the time of publishing, the ATAR threshold was 55 for Arts, Bachelor of Business, and Science degrees.
Can You Do USC Online?
Yes, the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) offers online study options. About 1,292 bachelor and 475 postgraduate students study online, making up 11% of degree enrolments. University of the Sunshine Coast Online is campus-based, with a smaller selection of courses for online study.