The University of Newcastle began as a college of the University of New South Wales. It opened in late 1951 and accepted its first students in 1952.
In late 1964 the University of Newcastle was granted autonomy by the NSW parliament. It became an independent university in 1965.
The University of Newcastle is a research-intensive university focused on improving the quality of life in its regions and around the globe. The University’s academics, students and staff pursue innovative solutions to the world’s great challenges. The University is ranked 197 of the world's universities (QS World University Rankings 2021).
The University of Newcastle is uniquely placed to collaborate with the defence industry, driving breakthroughs that will make positive contributions to both global security and modern life. Not only do we have a breadth of research and teaching expertise, our location is ideal for pursuing close collaborations with the Hunter region's thriving and diverse Defence sector.
We help develop stronger career outcomes by preparing you for life as well as a career. Beyond supporting you to pursue a strong academic record, we also provide opportunities for you to develop a range of skills to become more employable. Some of the additional opportunities to grow your career are outlined below.
We are the top-ranked university for industry collaboration in Australia* and the only university in Newcastle and the Hunter region. Our industry partners often recruit graduating students, recognising their strength and readiness for the workplace.
*Innovation Connections IC Report 2014 - 2019
· Religious Support – with representatives from the Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian (multiple denominations), Muslim and Sikh communities.
· Career Services – dedicated consultants, employable skills workshops and resume/CV support.
Our campus accommodation is very safe and secure, and our social activities give you many opportunities to make friends. Whether you choose to live on or off campus, we help make it easy for you to adjust to university life with a dedicated support team. You will make friends quickly with many academic, social and sporting activities each week.
The University libraries are much more than just a place for books and resources. At each campus library there are friendly staff, regular activities for students, all-hours study areas, student survival kitchens and even wellness support for more effective study. Some library spaces also have career or kid's rooms for parents who are studying.
Newcastle Callaghan has two large libraries, Auchmuty and Huxley, while Newcastle City, Central Coast and Sydney each have a library. Every location houses an impressive collection of books and resources related to the degrees and study programs that are offered nearby. Students can borrow something from another campus library through the online catalogue with daily courier services between campuses.
We provide medical centres staffed by doctors and nurses at our Newcastle (Callaghan) and Central Coast (Ourimbah) campuses. International students may be covered for on-campus medical services depending on their health cover.
The Callaghan campus is a wonderful mix of award winning, architecturally designed buildings and world-class infrastructure scattered over 140 hectares of natural bushland. We have a reputation for having one of the most naturally beautiful campuses in Australia and we work hard to protect it.
In the heart of the city, our Newcastle City campus provides an integral link with industry across creative industries, business and law. The campus is a hive of innovation in the city centre. Our state-of-the-art facility NUspace delivers a ‘next generation’ university experience, while our innovation hub is where you can engage with entrepreneurs, innovators, start-ups and developers to produce ideas that challenge the conventional. We also have campuses on the Central Coast, Sydney, and Singapore, and offer a range of degrees online.
We have a range of state-of-the-art sport and recreation facilities available depending on your campus. We also have numerous sporting clubs. Some facilities include:
University of Newcastle Student Association (UNSA) - is the student association at the University, representing and supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students at all campuses. There are more than 100 different clubs or societies for students to choose from and get involved with. They can always start a new club if it does not exist already. Types of clubs include:
Popular clubs and societies with international students include the African Postgraduate Students Association, HDR Coffee Club (Central Coast), or cultural clubs including the Arab Students Society, Australia-China Youth Association, Bangladesh Students’ Association of Newcastle University, Chinese Students and Scholars Association, Indian Student’s Association of Newcastle University, or religious clubs like the Islamic Society, Newcastle Christian Students, or the Sikh Society to name a few.
The University of Newcastle is accredited with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses to Overseas Students (CRICOS). University of Newcastle programs are recognised by professional organisations, including:
