The University of Western Australia

Since our beginnings in 1911, The University of Western Australia (UWA) has blazed the trail in producing remarkable and life-changing contributions across learning, teaching, and research, as well as contributing to the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of Western Australia, the nation, and our world.

We continue to make our mark on the world and our students are vital in this journey. They take their learning beyond the classroom, at the forefront of knowledge creation, from passionate lecturers with real industry experience and connections. We support them in their learning journeys and help set them up for a career they will love.

The global impact of our research and education places us as a world top 100 university (QS 2024). This means our students join a community of passionate, intelligent, and resourceful leaders who are driving innovation and change. They connect with and work alongside leaders in education, research, and industry, and follow in the footsteps of our thousands of graduate success stories.

Our main campus is located on the banks of the Swan River and is 10 minutes from the state’s capital city, Perth, the 12th most liveable city in the world[1]. Perth shares the same time zone as 60% of Asia (plus or minus two hours) and is one of Australia’s most affordable capital cities[2]. Perth is also a city of growth and opportunity, and the state has one of the best performing economies in the world[3].

Teaching and learning

At UWA, we are committed to providing our students with a stimulating curriculum built on social responsibility, experience-rich learning and cutting-edge research that will prepare them for the ever-changing world outside of their degree.

Our student-centric learning spaces are all designed to enhance skill development and job preparation. Students use facilities that enhance their experiential learning and provide them with collaborative, practical opportunities in their field of study.

Key facilities include:

• EZONE: an innovative and collaborative learning space based on a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) capability like no other in the country.
• UWA Health Campus: A specialist teaching and learning facilities for health and medical students that is co-located with our state’s leading hospital and research centres.
• UWA Business School: One of the premier business schools in the Asia-Pacific region offering a world-class trading room and training facility for student.

Enabling career opportunities 

A UWA education sets our students up for a career with infinite potential and we are proud to rank first in Western Australia for Graduate Employability (QS Graduate Employability Ranking 2022). By working alongside industry partners on real-world challenges, and taking on for-credit volunteering opportunities, work placements and internships throughout their education, our students build technical skills and career networks. This hands-on learning approach is valued by employers and ensures our students graduate career-ready. 

 A thriving student life

At UWA, students can seek new experiences, friendships, fun, connections and even a helping hand if needed. As a part of our diverse and inclusive campus community, our students can meet new people and forge connections that will last a lifetime. Our campus is home to more than 25,000 students, with more than 4,000 international students hailing from 100 countries. With more than 140 clubs and societies (more than any other Australian university), 400+ social sporting teams, an active Guild and plenty of events to fill a social calendar; our students find a friendly community of peers to exchange ideas with and develop supportive social and professional networks. 

Research at UWA

The University is regarded as one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, focused on being a trusted source of open and accessible research and driving excellence through world-leading collaboration.  

We are a member of the prestigious Group of Eight, a coalition of the best research-intensive universities in Australia. We are one of only two Australian members of the Worldwide Universities Network, a partnership of 18 research-led universities. UWA is also a foundation member of the Matariki Network of high-quality, research-intensive universities with a particular focus on student experience.

As a research-intensive university, we attract high-calibre, globally recognised staff, researchers, and students, including 17 highly cited researchers from across a range of disciplines.

Among UWA’s research strengths, 75 areas including Medical and Health Sciences; History and Archaeology; and Environmental Sciences, were rated ‘at or above world-class’ in the Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) initiative that measures the quality and impact of research at Australian universities. Our leadership in research shaping a better future for our communities and environments means we are a top performer in securing research funding, receiving approximately 80% of all funding to Western Australian universities annually. 

UWA is also home to more than 40 research centres and institutes and is affiliated with many others in Western Australia and across Australia. 

Our graduates

Upon graduating, our students join a thriving and active alumni community of more than 145,000 graduates worldwide. This community provides engagement and support, while creating valuable lifelong connections to the University and to each other.

We are proud to count among our graduates Nobel Prize-winning scientist, Professor Barry Marshall, entrepreneurs like Mecca Cosmetica founder Jo Horgan and politicians such as former prime minister Bob Hawke. 

UWA is also home to Fields Medal winner Professor Akshay Venkatesh; Decjuba CEO/owner Tania Austin; comedian, writer, and musician Tim Minchin; and Academy Award winner Shaun Tan.

[1] Source: Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index 202

[2] Source: Comparative analysis cost of living, Deloitte Access Economics July 2022

[3] Source: WA State Budget 2023-2024