The Sunshine Coast is seeing an influx of students keen to live outside cities when they study. And there’s no surprise. The lifestyle is incredible, and so are the range of education options. Study pathways include high ranking universities and a huge range of vocational education and training choices.
It really is one of the best places to study, live, work and play – and it is only one hours drive north from Brisbane making it easy to stay in touch with family and friends.
Here’s what you will find:
World class higher education, range of courses and study pathways
There are two high ranking universities* including the University of Sunshine Coast (USC) and CQUniversity (CQU).
USC is one of the world’s top 150 Universities and its reputation for research is growing each year. The latest Research Australia rankings rated 14 USC research fields to be above world standard.
A big drawcard for medical and health science students is the brand-new, state of the art Sunshine Coast University Hospital which provides students with a direct link to industry and career pathways.
The CQU campus at Noosa offers modern facilities and state of the art collaborative learning spaces. The QS World Universities ranking system has ranked it among the world’s top universities. In 2016 global social innovation group Ashoka U officially recognised it as Australia’s only Changemaker Campus.
For those wishing to pursue vocational education and training TAFE Queensland offers outstanding study options and has campuses in Mooloolaba, Nambour and Maroochydore. And, there are also a variety of registered private organisations that provide courses.
A variety of accommodation options
Making new friends, networking and having fun is an important aspect of tertiary study. A great way to meet people is to live on campus. There are a variety of options including The Village Accommodation, Varsity Apartments and UniCentral.
Alternatively, there is a good supply of rental apartments, townhouses, villas and units designed for the student lifestyle and budget.
A beachside culture and lush hinterland
The endless coastline and lush rainforest hinterland provide the ultimate playground. There are more than 35 beaches to choose from. And the ancient mountain peaks, awe-inspiring waterfalls and pristine waterways provide you with endless opportunities to relax and connect with nature. Pick your favourite activity – be it surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, boating, mountain climbing or bushwalking. There’s something for everyone.
Events and experiences
The region is also gaining a reputation as a cultural hub with a range of food, art and music festivals throughout the year. The fresh, local produce available from the multitude of farmers’ markets makes it a foodie paradise. There is also an impressive calendar of sporting events including the world-renowned Noosa Triathlon.
Career opportunities
Thanks to the growing and vibrant tourism industry there is a wide range of part-time employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars.
And the progressive local government is focused on economic growth and innovation. Major infrastructure projects are also underway. This is positioning the region as a centre for high value, higher paying employment in health, education, professional services, innovation, research and international tourism.
Study Sunshine Coast: Your future is here!
*Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2017