The early 1990s was an exciting time for Southern Cross University as it evolved from what was a Teachers College, in the 1970s, into a fully-fledged University with its own identity in 1994.
This site has been developed to showcase stories, historical information and personal recollections of the University’s development. It includes a condensed Brief History of SCU from Teachers College (pre-1994) to University.
In 1995, 95 international students had enrolled at Southern Cross University from more than 20 countries, creating a more multicultural campus and community environment. The following year, SCU welcomed its first group of international students to the study abroad program, which enabled students enrolled in an overseas institution to complete one or two semesters of study in Australia. The first students we from the USA and Germany.
The exchange program, which began in 1995 and continues today, has enabled hundreds of Australian students to travel overseas to study one or two semesters at a partner institution and receive credit for their existing studies. These days the exchange program boasts 44 partner institutions for students to select from.
Off-shore programs were seen as an opportunity for the University to grow. In 1996, SCU was delivering courses in Singapore, China and Malaysia through education collaborations. By 1998, this expanded to include Hong Kong, South Africa, India, Fiji, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. In 2014, SCU has education collaborations in Papua New Guinea, Singapore, New Zealand and China.
The International Student Support team has provided the University’s international students with an exceptional level of care with pre-arrival information, orientation and support throughout their studies. The global International Student Barometer (ISB), rated SCU number one in Australia for international student support in 2013.
SCU International continues to provide opportunities for Australian and international students through overseas study, exploring new cultures and broadening their horizons.
ON-CAMPUS
A range of on-campus accommodation options are available at four residential colleges across the Lismore and Coffs Harbour campuses. Apartments are modern and fully furnished, with their own kitchen, lounge, dining area and bathroom. SCU Village is managed by Campus Living Villages in partnership with SCU.
OFF-CAMPUS
Many students prefer to find their own accommodation to live a more independent lifestyle. UniStays is a free service that helps you find off-campus long and short-term accommodation options, such as share-houses, apartments and granny flats.
Evidence to show that you meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement for a student visa. This must include a statement in your application form that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily and/or documentation to support claims
Include evidence such as:
- Proof of employment –attach pay-slips or a contract, Curriculum Vitae or Resume.
- Qualifications – A certified copy of your academic transcripts, Educational Certificate (Degree, Diploma etc)
COFFS HARBOR CAMPUS
Set on 30 acres of rolling hills and bushland in close proximity to beaches and the city centre, our Coffs Harbour campus is a welcoming environment equipped with contemporary teaching facilities. The University is part of an education and technology precinct and is co-located with North Coast TAFE (a technical and further education facility) a senior high school, and the Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub.
More than 1,200 Southern Cross students study on-campus at Coffs Harbour. The gathering space is the heart of the campus, where students meet and socialize. Campus services include eateries and cafés, library and Student Services – a one-stop shop for student support and enquiries. The recreation hall and fitness centre is a great venue for personal training and sports science activities.
GOLD COAST CAMPUS
Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast campus is located at Coolangatta just 400 mt from North Kirra Beach, and adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport. Views of the Pacific Ocean can be seen from many vantage points in the campus buildings.
The Gold Coast is Australia’s sixth largest city, with a population of just under half a million people. Attractions include 70 km of beaches, tropical rainforest hinterland and numerous bush walks, parklands, major shopping centers, markets and entertainment.
LISMORE CAMPUS
Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus occupies 75 hectares of lush, sub-tropical grounds including landscaped gardens and rainforest walkways that are home to a variety of native wildlife.
Lismore’s vibrant arts, culture and music scene includes signature Byron Bay events such as the Byron Writers Festival, Splendour in the Grass, Fall Music and Arts Festival and Byron Bay Blues Fest.
