Southern Cross University SCU has achieved its highest ever ranking in the internationally renowned Quacquarelli Symonds QS World University rankings 2024, rising more than 50 places to be in the top 660 universities in the World.
The first time SCU entered the QS University World Rankings was in 2018 in the 801-1000 band, and since then it has moved up to the 751-800 band in 2020, then to the 701-750 band last year, before placing in the 651-660 band this year.
The top 660 result follows SCU’s ranking among the top 450 universities worldwide for Environmental Sciences in QS subject evaluations this year.
Research and Internationalisation were two aspects where SCU performed well, with Citations per Faculty and International Faculty achieving ranks of 361 and 270.
“Behind these numbers is a community of incredibly passionate academics who are proving that a small regional University can make a difference on the world stage,” said Professor Mary Spongberg, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Academic Capability.
“Our four research impact clusters harness the University’s strengths in plant science and agronomy, natural medicine, catchment management, reef and ocean science, engineering, and the Circular Economy.
“It’s great to see their impact being recognised at the international level.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin said the result was particularly pleasing following a major program of transformation at the University, including the conversion of academic schools into four faculties and the introduction of the Southern Cross Model, a new academic experience based on immersive learning and flexible content delivery which is delivering remarkable improvements in student learning outcomes and success.
“It’s terrific to see our international reputation reflect world-class research and a constant focus on improvement,” he said.
“I’m delighted to see the quality of the University endorsed at this level, it’s a very exciting time for our institution.”
One of the most comprehensive university evaluations in the world, UK based QS rankings aggregate research, employability, learning experience, global engagement, and sustainability of nearly 3000 institutions in 104 locations worldwide.