History
In the postwar era of development and innovation, the then New South Wales University of Technology established a division in Wollongong to train the engineers and metallurgists of the local steel industry.
That institution grew and evolved, and in 1975 legislation was passed in the parliament of New South Wales, establishing the University of Wollongong as an independent institution.
Education
The University of Wollongong (UOW) is more than a university. They unlock opportunities, encourage curiosity, and provide the support and tools to turn your passions into a career. Your future starts at UOW.
Explore more than 300 courses taught in state-of-the-art facilities by leading industry professionals.
Research
To confront the challenges of a rapidly changing world, UOW research is focused on supporting the best intellectual and technical talent to force change for good. From next-gen materials engineering in medicine to social transformation over the lifecycle, our research is purposeful and positive.
Career
Whether you know exactly what you want to do with your life; are still exploring options; or have absolutely no ideas about your future, The University is here to support you.
From tailored employability programs, work integrated learning subjects, workshops, online resources or a conversation with an expert Career Consultant we can help you get on track for the career that you want.
University Ranking
QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities
2025
167 -5
2024
162 23
2023
185
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
World University Rankings by Times Higher Education
2025
201
2024
201
2023
201
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
Academic Ranking of World Universities by Shanghai Jiao Tong University
2024
301 -100
2023
201
2022
201
ARWU World University rankings is the first world university ranking. It ranks the world's top 1000 colleges and universities based on objective indicator. They look at the number of award-winning (Fields Medals and Nobel Prize) scientists who are located there, how much of their research is cited and referenced around the world, and how much they've contributed to different academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, ARWU ranks the universities accordingly.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report
2025
-
2024
204 -18
2023
186
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
Student services
- All UOW students have access to a suite of free services, resources and assistance designed to enhance your university experience, and your capacity to achieve your study and career objectives.
- Student Success Mentors in the Student Success Hub can connect you with academic skills support, wellbeing services, peer programs, career services and more. The AskUOW Team are your go-to for the ‘admin’ side of your study, from enrolment through to fees and graduation.
Housing services
Many students say one of the best parts of the university experience is living in a residence. UOW Student Residences offer vibrant communities, with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Our residents enjoy being part of an active community, and many make friends for life.
As a city filled with students, Wollongong is the perfect place to start your future. Many UOW students say one of the best parts of the university experience is living on campus. You'll become part of an instant community, make new friends before you start your classes, and have access to all the services and support you need to be happy and succeed at uni.
Library services
- UOW Library provides services and resources both online and in-person for a range of clients, including students, researchers, staff, alumni, and community guests.
- Use Library SEARCH to find and use millions of resources, including over 840,000 ebooks, 250 databases, and over 180,000 electronic journals.
- Use your student card to borrow print books and other physical items.
ICT services
- The support staff are on hand to help with all of your IT related questions including help with UOWmail, SOLS, Printing, Wifi set-up and much more whether you are on campus or learning remotely.
- IT support and resources, including equipment loans and software downloads, are available to help you get set up with what you need.
Medical services
Bupa is UOW's chosen OSHC provider. When students receive an offer to study at UOW, students have the option to allow UOW to organise OSHC.
Bupa offers cover for a range of services. Some are:
- The cost of medical treatments in and out of hospital
- Bupa Direct Billing Doctors which reduce out pocket expenses
- A 24-hour advice line
- Bupa Membership Benefits
- Bupa Scholarship opportunities
Campus life
Domestic campuses are located in Wollongong, regional centres and Sydney.
UOW’s main Wollongong campus is set in native Australian bush and is one of the most picturesque university campuses in Australia.
Regarded as one of Australia's most beautiful university campuses, UOW offers a vibrant and enriching learning environment:
- World-class facilities: Explore the extensive teaching and research facilities, including a modern library, event facilities, and dedicated student residences.
- Thriving campus life: Enjoy a variety of food options including cafes, restaurants and the UniBar. Take advantage of retail outlets, gymnasium and indoor sports centre, Olympic-standard swimming pool, and expansive sports fields.
Sports facilities
Whether you are looking to play sport at a competitive level, join a social comp or just ‘shoot some hoops’ with friends, UOW has a sporting option available to suit you!
UOW Sport Clubs have a proud sporting history across a number of local sports competitions.
Experience a workout in one of the spacious gym facilities with high-quality Life Fitness equipment. Get moving with our group exercise classes or achieve your fitness goals with personalised support from our qualified trainers.
UniActive caters to all types of members. It’s your fit, your way!
Student clubs
The Wollongong Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) is a 15-member council (plus 5 General Representatives) elected by the student body each September to take office on the 1st of December of that year.
Presidency is elected for a 1 year period, with Office Bearers taking Council for up to two years. Every undergraduate student is able to run for a position on WUSA.
- The Faculty of Business and Law offers quality courses that are accredited or recognised by professional bodies both nationally and internationally.
- The University of Wollongong is an accredited member of AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. All relevant UOW business degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels are included in the scope of the AACSB accreditation review, including those offered at UOW Dubai.