The University of Sydney was founded in 1850, making it Australia's oldest university and the first in both Australia and Oceania. Established on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as a progressive, merit-based institution open to students regardless of background, it admitted women on the same terms as men from the start and became one of the world's early universities to do so. Over its more than 175 years (celebrating its 175th anniversary in 2025), it has evolved into a leading global research university, pioneering advancements in education, medicine, sciences, and humanities while contributing significantly to Australian society and international scholarship.
The University's main Camperdown/Darlington campus is located in inner Sydney, spanning a large urban parkland setting with a mix of historic sandstone buildings (classic "sandstone university" architecture), modern research facilities, green spaces, and iconic landmarks like the Quadrangle, Great Hall, and the Chau Chak Wing Museum. Additional campuses and teaching sites include specialist locations for health sciences, veterinary science, and continuing education across Sydney and regional areas. The vibrant urban environment offers excellent public transport links, proximity to Sydney's cultural, business, and coastal attractions, and facilities like libraries, sports centers, galleries, and student hubs.
The University of Sydney is a public research university governed by its Senate, the principal governing body responsible for strategy, policy, and oversight. The Chancellor is David Thodey AO (facilitating Senate work and community standing). The Vice-Chancellor and President (chief executive) is Professor Mark Scott AO, whose second five-year term begins in July 2026 (he has led since 2021). The administration includes senior deputy vice-chancellors, provosts, and deans across faculties, supported by government funding, tuition, research grants, philanthropy, and strong ties to industry and global partnerships.
The University is organized into multiple faculties and schools covering arts and social sciences, business, engineering, health and medicine, law, science, architecture, design, and more, offering a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees with emphasis on interdisciplinary study, innovation, and real-world impact. It consistently ranks among the world's top universities (25th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026, =53rd in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, 1st in Australia in US News Best Global Universities 2025–2026), with particular strengths in medicine, law, education, veterinary science, sustainability, and employability. It boasts high research output, numerous influential alumni and faculty, world-class facilities, and leadership in areas like climate solutions, health innovation, and global challenges.
The University enrolls a large, diverse student body (over 70,000–80,000 students, with a significant international cohort from more than 100 countries and high international student diversity ranking #1 in Australia), creating a dynamic, inclusive community. Student life revolves around vibrant campus activities, over hundreds of clubs and societies (academic, cultural, sports, arts, activism, and entrepreneurship), residential colleges and housing options, major events like orientation festivals and cultural celebrations, strong sporting culture, and access to Sydney's world-class beaches, arts scene, nightlife, and outdoor pursuits. The environment balances rigorous academics with social engagement, leadership development, wellbeing support, career services, and a focus on community involvement in one of the world's most livable cities.
Professors at The University of Sydney
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