Adelaide University is ranked 82 in the world in the recent 2026 QS World University Rankings, continuing the legacy of two of its former prestigious predecessors.
A NEW major university is making its mark in Australia’s prestigious ‘Group of Eight’ (Go8).
Adelaide University, opening in January 2026, recently debuted in the global top 100 in the latest 2026 QS World University Rankings.
Built on the collective expertise and achievements of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, the new institution cements its place in the global top 1% as one of the best universities amongst more than 15,000 worldwide.
Research and industry-driven excellence
For over 151 years, the University of Adelaide has championed the pursuit of new knowledge – an enduring legacy reflected in its five Australian Nobel laureates and more than 100 Rhodes Scholars.
Its scientific discoveries include furthering the understanding of the space-time continuum as well as harnessing the nation’s natural coastline to advance sustainable offshore energy production.
The University of South Australia, on the other hand, is Australia’s university of enterprise, with innovation and industry deeply embedded in its education and research.
Its industry partnerships have produced Covid-19 detection drones at the height of the global pandemic and supported the production of the world’s first shatterproof mirror.
Drawing on the legacies of these two universities, the newly formed Adelaide University’s industry-driven degrees prepare students for jobs in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) while building a skilled workforce that will boost Malaysia’s economy.
Curriculum for pioneers
South Australia has been a place of progress, where pioneers have made breakthroughs in antibiotics, clean energy, high-tech manufacturing and space.
At the centre of this enviable innovation ecosystem is the city’s university sector.
With more than 400 in-demand degrees and 1500 new courses, Adelaide University builds a pipeline of global talent and ethical leaders in disciplines like Health and Biomedical Sciences, Business, Marketing and Management, Information Technology, and Communication and Media.
This includes a reimagined approach to work-integrated learning, offering more programme options and interdisciplinary courses that meet employers’ demands.
Its distinctive curriculum design will support greater study flexibility, engagement and success for its students, equipping them with what’s necessary to rise up to a rapidly evolving industry.
Adelaide University is among Australia’s most industry-engaged universities and research partners of choice, backed by a Graduate Research School.
State-of-the-art facilities
Spanning the largest campus footprint in South Australia, Adelaide University boasts impressive and cutting-edge facilities.
This includes the AUD$247 million Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building, the first simulated financial trading room backed by industry software, and the recently established Responsible AI Research Centre that will support businesses in developing AI-enabled products and services.
Adelaide University conducts large-scale research that addresses a nation’s critical needs. Through partnered research, it works across the full value chain, from translation to commercialisation.
Its ecosystem also includes the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute – the world’s largest marketing research centre supporting global brands such as PepsiCo, BIC Corporate and LinkedIn – along with ThincLab and the Enterprise Hub, a space for entrepreneurs to breathe life into their ideas.
Study in one of the world’s most liveable cities
Adelaide University sits within the stunning backdrop of Adelaide, ranked as the ninth most liveable city in the world by the Economist’s Global Liveability Index 2025.
The capital’s vibrant culture, safety and quality of life make it a global study destination of choice, becoming a hub for global talents.
Visit adelaideuni.edu.au or watch Adelaide University’s story to learn more about the new Australian university.
