Overview

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a public university in Australia, established in 1991, with seven campuses across the country and one in Rome, Italy. Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, ACU is dedicated to excellence in education, research, and community engagement, offering programs in health sciences, education, arts, theology, philosophy, law, and business. It welcomes students of all backgrounds and emphasizes critical thinking, ethics, and social justice.

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a dynamic, publicly funded institution founded on January 1, 1991, through the amalgamation of four Catholic tertiary institutions in eastern Australia, with historical roots tracing back to the mid-1800s when religious orders began training teachers and nurses for Catholic schools and hospitals. Today, ACU operates seven campuses across Australia—Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney (Blacktown, North Sydney, and Strathfield)—along with a campus in Rome, Italy, established in 2015 in collaboration with the Catholic University of America. As a member of the International Federation of Catholic Universities, ACU is ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide and among the top 10 Catholic universities globally.

ACU is committed to the pursuit of knowledge, the dignity of the human person, and the common good, principles deeply embedded in its mission within the Catholic intellectual tradition. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across four faculties: Education and Arts, Health Sciences, Law and Business, and Theology and Philosophy. Known for its supportive learning environment, ACU integrates theory with practical experience through work placements, internships, and volunteer opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers. With over 35,000 students, including 1,500 international students from more than 160 countries, ACU fosters a vibrant, multicultural community. Its strong industry connections, world-class research, and focus on social impact have earned it recognition, including a top ranking in Australia for promoting healthy living and wellbeing in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024. Open to all, regardless of faith, ACU empowers students to think critically, act ethically, and contribute meaningfully to society.