The University of Newcastle (UON) is a public university located primarily in Newcastle, New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Founded in 1965, UON has evolved into a globally recognized institution, consistently ranked among the top 200 universities worldwide and within the top 10 Australian universities. It is celebrated for its commitment to equity, regional engagement, and world-class research, particularly in areas critical to societal development. UON’s main campus is the expansive Callaghan campus, but it also features a significant presence in the Newcastle CBD with the NeW Space vertical campus, a purpose-built facility for business, law, and creative industries, integrating the university directly with the city’s professional and cultural hub. Additionally, it maintains campuses in Ourimbah (Central Coast) and Sydney, broadening its reach and accessibility across the state.

UON has firmly established itself as a research leader, with over 90% of its research rated at or above world standard. Its research strategy is highly applied and directed at solving major global challenges. Key research strengths include Energy and Resources (leveraging its proximity to the Hunter Valley’s industrial base), Medical Sciences and Public Health (with strong ties to the Hunter New England Local Health District), Engineering, and Architecture. UON is home to several influential research institutes, including the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and the Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lifestyles, which drive significant breakthroughs in clinical practice and health policy. This intense focus on applied research ensures that its academic contributions translate directly into real-world benefits, enhancing its reputation as a globally recognized research institution.
The university offers a comprehensive range of programs across five main faculties: Engineering and Built Environment; Health and Medicine; Science; Education and Arts; and Business and Law. UON is particularly renowned for its programs in Medicine (notably being one of the first to introduce the Problem-Based Learning model), Architecture, Nursing, and Mining Engineering. Beyond academic rigor, UON places a strong emphasis on equity and social inclusion, providing extensive support and pathways for students from diverse and regional backgrounds. This commitment to accessibility is matched by a strong focus on graduate employability, with the university actively incorporating work-integrated learning (WIL), internships, and professional placements across its degrees to ensure students graduate with the practical skills and experience required by industry. UON consistently achieves high ratings for student experience and graduate satisfaction, underscoring its dual commitment to research excellence and student success.