The University of Adelaide is a world-class research and teaching institution, pursuing innovation and preparing the educated leaders of tomorrow.

As Australia’s third oldest university, we have a reputation for excellence and progressive thinking, with the University proudly ranked in the top one per cent, among the world’s elite.

We recognise exceptional people as one of our greatest assets. Adelaide has produced over 100 Rhodes Scholars, including Australia’s first indigenous recipient, and has five Nobel Laureates among its distinguished alumni. We attract academic staff who are global leaders in their field, and our 27,000 students from more than 90 countries are some of the best and brightest in the world.

We are part of Australia’s leading, research-intensive, Group of Eight universities. The only one in South Australia.

Research impact

Our researchers are committed to solving the world’s grandest challenges, significantly impacting the economy, health, public policy and the quality of life. Research takes place across specialist institutes and centres, where over 1700 researchers work collaboratively, across disciplines, and in partnership with industry and government. Their excellence is recognised worldwide, with 99% of our research areas rated as ‘world standard or above’ in the latest ‘Excellence in Research Australia’ assessment.

Adelaide’s research strengths span a wide range of sectors including food and wine, defence and security, health and medicine, engineering and technology, life sciences, mining and energy, and the environment.

Approach to teaching

At the University of Adelaide, students learn with the guidance and support of outstanding teaching staff, many of whom are nationally and internationally recognised leaders in their field.

Working closely with world-class academics, students acquire the skills, knowledge and experience to make a significant contribution to their careers. Operating at the cutting edge of their disciplines, our academics enthusiastically share their passion for new knowledge and encourage students’ own pursuits of world-changing discoveries.

Equally important, students have ready access to staff throughout their time here, thanks to our low staff-to-student ratios. The fact that we’ve fostered over 100 Rhodes and more than 120 Fulbright scholars, this commitment to incredibly high standards of teaching ensure students are given every opportunity to excel and fulfil their potential.

The support services and opportunities provided by the University, including mentoring, counselling, industry internships, career services, scholarships and accommodation services create an environment that provides students with the best opportunity for success.

Working here

In a rapidly changing environment, the University of Adelaide is clear about its goals and intentions:

we are an international institution that embraces the idea of the research university, where the union of teaching and research, combined in the search for new knowledge and discovery, is fundamental
where a high quality, face to face, the learning experience is supported by the innovative use of flexible and leading-edge learning technologies; and
the ground-breaking, collaborative work of our world-class researchers and innovators spans disciplinary boundaries in addressing the world’s great challenges to deliver social and economic benefits for our communities.
We are committed to principles of equity and diversity and draw upon imaginative, innovative and highly skilled people from across the globe. We support and celebrate female leadership and Indigenous employment.

Destination: Adelaide and South Australia

Adelaide is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. Renowned for affordability, accessibility, friendliness, cultural and sporting attractions, quality of life and climate.

Adelaide’s lifestyle is blessed with a vibrant food and wine culture. The city’s diverse cultural mix ensures a wide range of restaurants and cafes with sensational food. The Adelaide Fringe and Adelaide Festival in February through March and the Adelaide Cabaret Festival in June are some of the highlights in the yearly calendar.

Adelaide is considered to have a Mediterranean climate, which means residents enjoy four distinct seasons. The weather perfectly reflects the warmth of character that is embodied by South Australians, renowned for our welcoming, inclusive and hospitable nature.

The city sits on a large stretch of western-facing coastline, which means beautiful sunsets over the ocean and great air quality. With so many beautiful parks, green spaces and quiet suburbs, walking and cycling are easy and safe ways to get around.

Living in Adelaide is affordable, with the cost of travel, eating out, and renting or buying a house considerably lower than other Australian cities.