USC makes it onto lists of the top 1000 universities in the world.
The University of the Sunshine Coast is ranked #906 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: 906
University of the Sunshine Coast is ranked #906 in the world. It sits within the lower end of the global top 1,000 universities.
QS ranking: Not ranked
Times Higher Education: 700
ARWU: 850
Webometrics: 794
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 36
University of the Sunshine Coast is ranked #36 in Australia out of 42 universities. This position is typical for a smaller, regional university with a teaching-focused profile rather than a large research footprint.
Above: Bond University (33), Victoria University (34), Charles Sturt University (35)
Below: Federation University Australia (37), University of New England (38), University of Notre Dame Australia (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 in fields like health, teacher education, and agricultural science.
USC’s campuses, including those on the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, and Moreton Bay, offer a relaxed study environment with modern facilities.
Satisfaction: 77.6%
The University of the Sunshine Coast reviews show a satisfaction rate of 75.0% for bachelor degrees, which is about average in Australia. Postgraduate satisfaction is at 80.1%, also close to the national average. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 18,871
The University of the Sunshine Coast had a total of 18,871 students in 2024, making it the 33rd largest university in Australia. USC is the 7th biggest uni in Queensland.
- International students: 2,226 (12%)
- Postgraduate students: 1,599 (8%)
- Gender ratio: 69% Female : 31% Male
- On-campus students: 16,011 (85%)
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 2,148 bachelor and 712 postgraduate students study online, making up 15% of degree enrolments. University of the Sunshine Coast Online is campus-based, with a smaller selection of courses for online study.