Top universities to grow with while studying in paradise

top universities
Source: University of Tasmania

Beautiful surroundings matter. Panoramic vistas inspire; oceans calm; national parks enliven. For students, they can turn a regular university experience into a truly memorable one.

While tuition fees, living expenses, academic integrity and curricula are important to consider, it’s hard to ignore that when students choose their universities, they are choosing an environment they will call home for several years. A well-designed educational space within and beyond campus encourages better learning, and an aesthetically appealing backdrop is known to provide a touch of inspiration when it comes to hitting the books. 

Fortunately, across the globe, there is no shortage of universities where their academic credentials are aligned with stunning surroundings. Whether they are picturesque beaches, rolling mountains, lush woodlands or the bright lights of big cities, the benefits of a well-located campus should never be underestimated. There are incredible, attractive journeys waiting to be had across the globe and and if you are eager to begin yours, here are four universities sure to make you feel like you’re in paradise:

The University of Tasmania

Founded in 1890, the University of Tasmania has a rich and proud history as Australia’s fourth oldest university. More importantly, it is an environment made for inspired learning. Framed by vibrant cities, beaches, snowfields and wilderness, the University’s island home in Australia’s southern-most state provides a setting unlike any other — where you can hear yourself think and learn beyond the classroom.

top universities

Source: University of Tasmania

In Tasmania, education is an unforgettable adventure. Classes are small, lecturers and tutors are easily accessible, and teaching is personal and in English. Tasmanian specialisations are linked to research endeavours that address concerns of local and global relevance, spanning a range of fields. The University is ranked among the top 100 worldwide for Earth and Marine Sciences, as well as Agriculture and Forestry. As the only university in the state, you are guaranteed exclusive access to local industry experience.

In this outstanding environment, learning is practical and hands-on. Being the gateway to the Southern Ocean translates to opportunities to experience unique academic offerings such as Global Logistics and Maritime Management. As one of the nation’s food bowls — producing some of the world’s finest produce, wine and seafood — agriculture studies in Tasmania combine industry-connected teaching and research, as well as practical experience at one of its four farms.

The University is also passionate about the arts. This is demonstrated with the Hedberg, a new state-of-the-art building that serves as an incubator for creative practice, research, partnerships and engagement. There is something to inspire every student who studies in Tasmania. They stand to join a diverse community of 29,000 students, charting their own paths to success – just as 90,000 alumni in over 120 countries have done before them.

To learn more about a world-class education in Tasmania, click here. Generous scholarships for international students are also available — apply here.

University of Sydney 

The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world, known internationally as leaders in education, research, student experience and successful graduate outcomes. Rankings in employability reflect the university’s track record in preparing students for the workforce, coming in top in Australia and fourth in the world.

top universities

Source: The University of Sydney

Studying at the University of Sydney means you’ll be able to experience life in the world’s third most liveable city. Set around the world’s largest natural harbour, Sydney is home to golden beaches, world-class museums and art galleries, delectable fresh food, and calendars that are filled with exciting events and festivals. It is also the fifth safest city in the world, perfect for arriving students who are nervous about life abroad. 

There are over 100 majors and minors across disciplines for every interest, over 200 clubs and societies that encourage engagement and enrich student experiences, and the largest student mobility programme in Australia. Over 250 partner universities work in collaboration with the University of Sydney to develop study abroad and exchange programmes for students who wish to experience new cultures and make lasting connections.

University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA) was established in 1911, a pioneer in the state as its first university. Over 100 years later, the university is now home to four faculties, attendant schools and many research institutions and centres. 

top universities

Source: The University of Western Australia

At UWA, graduates are prepared to improve the lives of others while efficiently navigating the challenges that come in an ever-changing world. Here, course structures are one of a kind and based on a global model that encourages students to pursue their passions and maximise career opportunities as they grow academically. It’s flexibility that sets this university apart and it’s this approach that creates future-proof graduates. 

UWA’s campus is located in Perth, among the most must-see spots in Australia such as sandstone buildings among heritage-listed gardens. Adjacent to the Swan River, just ten minutes away from Perth’s main shopping and business district and within close proximity of the city’s stunning beaches, UWA’s attractive campus is one that is equipped with all the right student essentials.

University of Otago 

Founded in 1868, the University of Otago in New Zealand is ranked among the top 1% universities in the world, with opportunities for all. Students who begin their academic journeys here join a diverse population of over 20,000 students from New Zealand and more than 100 nations around the world.

top universities

Source: University of Otago

Students at Otago are taught by international experts in their fields that guide them in obtaining world-class qualifications. This foundation places them in the forefront of research, with the capabilities to make groundbreaking contributions to their communities and beyond. Tens of thousands of Otago graduates are excelling across the globe, contributing to sectors such as law, health, science, business and government. Employers love Otago graduates and 95% of students enter the workforce or further their education almost immediately after graduating.

Otago is New Zealand’s only true residential university, and 85% of its students come from outside Dunedin. This dynamic student city is home to over 25 beaches where students can enjoy penguin, seal or sea lion sighting regularly. There’s also Tunnel Beach, where students can access going down a 150-year-old tunnel carved through sandstone cliffs. 

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International