University of the Sunshine Coast: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is a prestigious educational institution located on Queensland's picturesque Sunshine Coast. USC offers a wide range of programs in a variety of disciplines, with a strong emphasis on innovative teaching and research. The university takes pride in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages students to pursue their academic goals while also exploring their passions. USC is distinguished by its cutting-edge facilities, which include cutting-edge laboratories, research centers, and top-tier athletic facilities. The university's commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation is reflected in the design of its campus and ongoing initiatives. Students at USC enjoy a vibrant campus life, where they can participate in a diverse range of clubs, societies, and events that contribute to a well-rounded university experience.

The University places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and practical engagement. USC provides students with numerous opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings through industry placements, internships, and community projects. This hands-on approach prepares graduates for successful careers by providing them with the skills and experience that employers seek. Furthermore, USC stands out for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university is a pioneer in sustainability education, research, and practice, and it has received numerous awards for its green initiatives and sustainable campus design. USC's commitment to fostering a sustainable future distinguishes it as a university that values both academic excellence and environmental responsibility.

Information	Details
Type of University	Public
Total Student Population	Approximately 15,000
Percentage of International Students	15%
Acceptance Rate	Not available
Student-Faculty Ratio	17:1
Number of Campuses	1 (Domestic)
Number of Scholarships Awarded	Varies each year
Official Website	https://www.usc.edu.au/

About Campus and Accommodation

The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is located on Queensland's beautiful Sunshine Coast on a large and picturesque campus. The campus offers a vibrant and welcoming learning environment, as well as cutting-edge classrooms, laboratories, research centers, and a well-stocked library. On-campus housing options include furnished apartments and shared units, creating a welcoming community atmosphere. Off-campus housing options include rental apartments and houses in close proximity to the university. The cost of accommodation varies depending on the type and location, allowing for budget and preference flexibility.

Here's a table with the various types of accommodation and their approximate costs at the University of the Sunshine Coast:

Accommodation Type	Approximate Cost (per week)
On-Campus Shared Unit	AUD $170 - $220
On-Campus Apartment	AUD $200 - $270
Off-Campus Rental Apartment	AUD $180 - $300
Off-Campus Rental House	AUD $250 - $400

University of the Sunshine Coast Global Ranking 

In the QS World University Rankings, USC has been ranked among the top universities in the world, specifically in the top 150 young universities category. Additionally, the University of the Sunshine Coast ranked 37th in Australia, 1350th in the global 2023 rating, and scored in the TOP 50% across 40 research topics.  These rankings reflect USC's commitment to delivering high-quality education, innovative research, and its growing reputation as a globally competitive institution.

Acceptance Rate of the University

The University of the Sunshine Coast has an acceptance rate of 66% making it a moderately competitive university. All the applications are assessed individually by the university’s selection committee. Students are selected if they meet the eligibility criteria and English language requirements.

Top Courses Offered at University of the Sunshine Coast 

Here are some of the popular courses offered at USC, along with their indicative fees for both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) degree levels:

Course	Undergraduate Fees (indicative)	Postgraduate Fees (indicative)
Bachelor of Business	AUD $24,400 - $27,800	AUD $25,400 - $28,800
Bachelor of Nursing	AUD $26,600 - $30,200	AUD $27,600 - $31,400
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)	AUD $26,600 - $30,200	AUD $27,600 - $31,400
Bachelor of Science	AUD $24,400 - $27,800	AUD $25,400 - $28,800
Bachelor of Education (Primary)	AUD $24,400 - $27,800	AUD $25,400 - $28,800
Master of Business Administration	Not available	AUD $33,200 - $37,600
Master of Nursing	Not available	AUD $30,600 - $34,800
Master of Education	Not available	AUD $30,200 - $34,400
Master of Psychology (Clinical)	Not available	AUD $36,400 - $41,400

University of the Sunshine Coast Admission Process

Prospective students must follow a simple process to apply for admission to the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC). The following are the general steps:

1. Fees for applications: The application fee for undergraduate domestic students is AUD $75 (approximately), and the fee for postgraduate domestic students is AUD $100 (approximately). International students may be required to pay a different application fee.
2. Application Procedure: Students can apply online through the USC website. Personal information, educational background, and supporting documents such as academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, and a personal statement are required on the application form.
3. Important Dates: USC follows a semester system, with two main intakes each year: Semester 1 (February) and Semester 2 (July). Specific application deadlines should be checked on the official USC website as they may vary depending on the course and student category (domestic or international).
4. Assessment and Offer: After receiving the application, USC will review the documents and determine the applicant's eligibility. Successful applicants will be offered admission.
5. Acceptance and Enrollment: Accepted students must accept the offer, pay any applicable fees, and adhere to the enrollment procedures outlined in the offer letter.

Documents Required for University of the Sunshine Coast

To apply for admission to the University of the Sunshine Coast, prospective students are generally required to submit the following documents:

• Completed application form
• Academic transcripts or certificates
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores)
• Personal statement or statement of purpose
• Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
• Passport or identification documents
• Any additional documents specified by the university or the specific course/program.

Exam Requirements for University of the Sunshine Coast

The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) has specific requirements regarding English language proficiency exams and, in some cases, additional exams. Here are the commonly accepted exams and the corresponding minimum scores for admission:

1. English Language Proficiency Exams:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Overall band score of 6.0, with no individual band score below 5.5.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: Overall score of 68, with a minimum score of 17 in Listening, Reading, and Writing, and a minimum score of 20 in Speaking.
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 50, with no communicative skill score below 46.
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): Overall score of 169, with no skill score below 162.

2.    Additional Exams:

• Some courses at USC may require additional exams, such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The specific requirements for these exams will vary depending on the course or program of study.

University of the Sunshine Coast Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance, which includes tuition and living expenses, can vary depending on factors such as the specific program, level of study, and individual circumstances. Here is the information on the cost of attendance at the University of the Sunshine Coast for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) courses. 

Program	Undergraduate Course Fees (per year)	Postgraduate Course Fees (per year)
Business	AUD $23,000 - $28,000	AUD $26,000 - $32,000
Engineering	AUD $24,000 - $29,000	AUD $27,000 - $33,000
Health Sciences	AUD $25,000 - $30,000	AUD $28,000 - $34,000
Arts and Social Sciences	AUD $22,000 - $27,000	AUD $25,000 - $31,000

Cost of Living:

Components	Estimated Cost (per year)
Accommodation	AUD $8,000 - $12,000
Food	AUD $3,500 - $5,000
Transportation	AUD $1,000 - $2,000
Personal Expenses	AUD $2,000 - $3,000
Total	AUD $14,500 - $22,000

Available Scholarships for the University of the Sunshine Coast

The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) offers a range of scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. Here are a few scholarships available at USC:

1. Vice-Chancellor's Merit Scholarship: A prestigious scholarship awarded to high-achieving undergraduate students commencing their studies at USC. It provides a financial contribution towards tuition fees.
2. International Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are available to international students commencing their undergraduate or postgraduate studies at USC. They are awarded based on academic excellence and provide financial assistance.
3. Indigenous Commonwealth Scholarships: Designed to support Indigenous Australian students, these scholarships provide financial support for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, including living allowances and additional educational expenses.
4. Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships: Aimed at supporting students from regional and remote areas, these scholarships provide financial assistance to undergraduate students studying in eligible courses.

Placements at the University of the Sunshine Coast

The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is committed to preparing students for successful careers and offers various resources and opportunities to enhance employability. Graduates from USC have a wide range of career opportunities available to them across different industries and sectors. The university maintains strong connections with industry partners, facilitating internships, work placements, and networking opportunities for students. Here's a table providing examples of expected salaries for selected courses at USC:

Course	Expected Salary Range (Annual)
Bachelor of Business	AUD $50,000 - $80,000
Bachelor of Nursing	AUD $55,000 - $80,000
Bachelor of Science	AUD $50,000 - $70,000
Bachelor of Education (Primary)	AUD $50,000 - $70,000
Master of Business Administration	AUD $70,000 - $120,000
Master of Nursing	AUD $60,000 - $90,000
Master of Education	AUD $60,000 - $90,000
Master of Psychology (Clinical)	AUD $70,000 - $100,000

Top Australian Universities

University Name	Acceptance Rate	Ranking	University Type
University of Notre Dame	15.10%	1201	Private
James Cook University	79%	424	Public
Torrens University	39%	3425	Private
Charles Sturt University	87.40%	1000	Public
Queensland University of Technology	40%	222	Public
Swinburne University of Technology	66%	296	Public
Charles Darwin University	59%	750	Public
University of Southern Queensland	69%	700	Public
Bond University	30%-40%	481	Private
Southern Cross University	67%	750	Public
Central Queensland University	30%	700	Public
University of the Sunshine Coast	66%	1200	Public
Australian Catholic University	67%	1000	Public
University of New England	90%	1000	Public
University of Western Australia	38%	90	Public
ATMC Federation University	97.20%	1265	Private
Kaplan Business School	NA	NA	Private
Melbourne Polytechnic	NA	NA	Public
Excelsia College	NA		Private
Macleay College	45%	14802	Private
Australian National institute of Management and Commerce	35%	34	Private
UTS College	19.00%	137	Private
Russo Business School	66.40%	351-400	Private
International College of Management	100%	343	Private
Australian College of Applied Professions	NA	NA	Private
Melbourne Institute of Technology	NA	190	Public