Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University: Practical Learning, Career Opportunities and Support for International Students

Southern Cross University (SCU) is an Australian university with campuses along Australia's east coast, including the Gold Coast, Lismore and Coffs Harbour, as well as metropolitan locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth through The Hotel School. SCU offers undergraduate, postgraduate and research study, with a strong focus on practical skills, critical thinking and collaboration.

The university offers international courses across areas including Business, Computing and IT, Engineering, Law, Health, Science, Education and Teaching, Hotel Management, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Marine and Environmental Sciences.

What is Southern Cross University Known For?

Southern Cross University is particularly known for:

• Business
• Computing and Information Technology
• Engineering
• Health
• Nursing
• Education and Teaching
• Law
• Science
• Marine and Environmental Sciences
• Hotel Management
• Veterinary Sciences
• Arts and Social Sciences

SCU emphasises practical skills and real-world learning, with course pages providing information about placements, internships, professional recognition and career opportunities where applicable.

Business & Tourism

Students can study areas including:

• Business
• Accounting
• Management
• Marketing
• Tourism
• Hotel Management

These programs can prepare students for careers in business, management, tourism, hospitality and related professional fields.

Computing & Information Technology

SCU offers technology-related study covering areas such as:

• Information Technology
• Computing
• Software and digital technologies
• Data-related fields

Students can develop practical and analytical skills relevant to technology and digital careers.

Engineering

Engineering study at SCU includes areas such as:

• Engineering
• Engineering technology
• Civil and related engineering disciplines

Students can combine technical knowledge with practical learning and industry-focused skills.

Health

Health is an important area of study at Southern Cross University, with programs covering fields such as:

• Nursing
• Health sciences
• Allied health
• Biomedical science
• Occupational therapy
• Psychology

Many health programs incorporate practical learning or professional placement requirements.

Education & Teaching

SCU offers programs in education and teaching, including study pathways for students interested in careers in:

• Early childhood education
• Primary education
• Secondary education
• Teaching
• Education support

Law

Students interested in legal careers can explore programs in:

• Law
• Legal studies
• Paralegal studies

These programs can provide foundations for careers in legal services, government and related professional areas.

Science & Environment

Science-related study includes:

• Marine science
• Environmental science
• Biomedical science
• Environmental management
• Other scientific disciplines

SCU's coastal locations provide a relevant environment for students studying marine and environmental subjects.

Veterinary Sciences

SCU also offers veterinary-related programs, including veterinary science and veterinary technology. These programs have specific entry requirements and fee structures that students should check carefully before applying.

Academic Environment

Southern Cross University uses its Southern Cross Model, which structures study around intensive six-week teaching periods. The model is designed to allow students to focus on one or two units at a time while balancing study with other commitments.

Depending on the course, students may experience:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical classes
• Laboratory work
• Fieldwork
• Industry projects
• Professional placements
• Research

Quick Facts

• University: Southern Cross University
• Type: Australian university
• Main locations: Gold Coast, Lismore and Coffs Harbour
• Additional locations: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth through The Hotel School
• Study levels: Undergraduate, postgraduate and research
• International students: Yes
• Study areas: Business, Computing & IT, Engineering, Health, Law, Science, Education, Hotel Management, Veterinary Sciences and more
• Study modes: On-campus and flexible online options, depending on course
• International support: Yes

Q. Is Southern Cross University a good university?

A. Southern Cross University can be a strong option for students seeking practical, career-focused education, particularly in areas such as health, business, computing, education, engineering, law, science and hospitality. Its multiple campus locations also give students different lifestyle and study environments.

Q. Where is Southern Cross University located?

A. SCU's main campuses are located at the Gold Coast in Queensland, Lismore in the Northern Rivers and Coffs Harbour in New South Wales. It also has metropolitan locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth through The Hotel School.

Student Life at Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers students a distinctive Australian university experience across its campuses in Queensland and New South Wales, with additional metropolitan locations and flexible online study. Its main campuses include the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers (Lismore) and Coffs Harbour. (scu.edu.au)

Campus & Facilities

Students can access:

• Libraries and study spaces
• Teaching facilities
• Specialist laboratories
• Practical training facilities
• Sport and recreation facilities
• Student support services
• Accommodation
• Careers and employability services
• Health and wellbeing support

SCU's coastal and regional locations also provide opportunities to experience different Australian environments while studying. (scu.edu.au)

Student Clubs & Activities

SCU provides opportunities to participate in:

• Clubs
• Sports
• Societies
• Student events
• Social activities
• Cultural activities

The university highlights clubs, sports and societies as an important part of its student-life experience. (scu.edu.au)

International Student Experience

Southern Cross University has dedicated support for international students covering the journey from application through enrolment and orientation.

International students can access:

• Application support
• Orientation
• Academic support
• Student wellbeing services
• Careers support
• Accommodation guidance
• International student assistance
• Education-agent support

SCU describes its international support as covering both the academic wellbeing and personal welfare of international students. (scu.edu.au)

Q. What is student life like at Southern Cross University?

A. SCU offers a diverse student experience combining campus activities, clubs, sports, practical learning and dedicated student support. Students can also choose between regional/coastal campuses and flexible study options depending on their course. (scu.edu.au)

Southern Cross University Courses – Business, IT, Health, Engineering, Law and More

Southern Cross University offers international programs across Business, Computing & IT, Engineering, Law, Health, Science, Education & Teaching, Hotel Management, Marine and Environmental Sciences, Veterinary Sciences and pathway programs. (scu.edu.au)

Popular Subject Areas

Business & Tourism

Students can study:

• Business
• Accounting
• Management
• Marketing
• Tourism
• Hotel management

These programs can prepare students for careers in business, finance, management, tourism and hospitality.

Computing & Information Technology

SCU offers technology-related programs covering areas such as:

• Information Technology
• Computing
• Digital technologies
• Cyber-related fields

Students can develop technical and practical skills relevant to the technology sector.

Health & Nursing

Health is an important study area at SCU, with programs including:

• Nursing
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy
• Psychology
• Health science
• Biomedical science
• Clinical exercise physiology

Several health programs include practical or professional learning components.

Engineering

Engineering programs provide study opportunities in areas including:

• Engineering
• Engineering technology
• Civil and related engineering disciplines

Students can develop technical skills through academic and practical learning.

Education & Teaching

Students can explore:

• Education
• Teaching
• Early childhood education
• Primary education
• Secondary education

These programs prepare students for careers across education and teaching.

Law

SCU offers programs in:

• Law
• Legal studies
• Paralegal studies

These courses can provide pathways into legal services, government and related professional fields.

Science & Environment

Study areas include:

• Marine science
• Environmental science
• Biomedical science
• Environmental management
• Science

SCU's coastal locations provide a relevant environment for students interested in marine and environmental disciplines.

Veterinary Sciences

SCU offers veterinary-related study, including the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (Honours), which commenced with a full cohort at the Northern Rivers campus in 2026. (scu.edu.au)

Q. What are the best courses at Southern Cross University?

A. SCU is particularly suitable for students interested in Business, Computing & IT, Health, Nursing, Engineering, Education, Law, Marine Science, Environmental Science, Hotel Management and Veterinary Sciences. The best choice depends on the student's academic background and career goals. (scu.edu.au)

Practical Learning

Practical skills and real-world knowledge are central to SCU's teaching approach. Depending on the course, students may experience:

• Laboratory work
• Practical classes
• Fieldwork
• Industry projects
• Professional placements
• Clinical learning
• Research projects

SCU's course information also identifies placements, professional recognition and career opportunities where applicable. (scu.edu.au)

The university's Southern Cross Model uses six-week study terms, allowing students to focus on one or two units at a time. SCU says the model is designed to provide a deeper learning experience while helping students balance study, work and other commitments. (scu.edu.au)

Careers & Employability

SCU's Careers & Employability team supports students from the beginning of their studies.

Students can access:

• Career advice
• Resume resources
• Job alerts
• Interview preparation
• Networking support
• Career workshops
• Graduate job resources
• Career coaching

SCU's CareerSuccess platform also provides sample resumes, job alerts, video interviews and online career-development resources. (scu.edu.au)

Career Areas

Depending on their degree, graduates can pursue careers in:

Business & Tourism

• Accounting
• Management
• Marketing
• Tourism
• Hospitality

Technology

• Information technology
• Software and digital roles
• Computing
• Data-related careers

Health

• Nursing
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy
• Psychology
• Health services

Education

• Teaching
• Early childhood education
• Education support

Science & Environment

• Marine science
• Environmental management
• Scientific research

Law & Public Services

• Legal services
• Government
• Paralegal work

Placement & Internship Opportunities

Students may gain professional experience through:

• Internships
• Clinical placements
• Industry projects
• Professional placements
• Research projects
• Fieldwork

The exact placement structure depends on the selected course.

Southern Cross University Fees – Tuition Costs, Scholarships and Financial Support for International Students

For 2026, Southern Cross University has introduced Access26, setting international tuition fees at AUD 26,000 per year for most courses. The fee is based on a standard full-time load of eight units (96 credit points) per year, or AUD 3,250 per unit.

Access26 applies to most SCU courses, but excludes programs including the Master of Nursing, Bachelor of Veterinary Technology, Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, Study Abroad, English Language Programs and Higher Degree Research courses.

Tuition Fees for International Students

For most eligible international courses in 2026:

AUD 26,000 per year

Students studying fewer than eight units may be charged on a pro-rata basis.

International students should also budget for:

• Accommodation
• Food and living expenses
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Books and study materials
• Transport
• Visa and travel expenses
• Course-specific costs where applicable

Undergraduate Tuition Cost

For an eligible undergraduate course under Access26:

AUD 26,000 × 3 years = AUD 78,000

This is a simple current-rate calculation. The actual total can vary depending on the course length, study load and future fee changes.

SCU has announced that international tuition fees will be indexed for 2027.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation is separate from tuition fees.

Students can choose accommodation options near or at SCU's campuses, depending on their location and course.

Students should also budget separately for:

• Food
• Transport
• Personal expenses
• Books and study materials
• OSHC
• Visa expenses
• Travel

International Student Cost of Attendance

The total cost of studying at Southern Cross University depends on the student's course, accommodation and lifestyle.

Students should consider:

Tuition + Accommodation + Living Expenses + OSHC + Transport + Study Materials + Personal Expenses

The university also notes that some courses may involve additional costs such as equipment, uniforms, travel for practicums or internships and other course-specific expenses.

Scholarships & Financial Support

Southern Cross University offers a range of scholarships for international students. Eligibility is assessed by the university's admissions team during the application process, and successful students receive scholarship details in their Letter of Offer.

Access26

Access26 provides a straightforward AUD 26,000 annual tuition fee for most eligible international courses in 2026. Students do not need to complete an additional form, as eligible students are automatically offered the Access26 fee.

International Scholarships

SCU's international scholarship finder includes scholarships supporting academic achievement, diversity and students studying at its regional NSW campuses.

Scholarship values vary. Current listings include awards such as:

• AUD 15,000 scholarships
• AUD 10,000 scholarships
• Other awards ranging from smaller grants to larger tuition or study support

Eligibility depends on the individual scholarship.

Scholarships for International Students

International students should check SCU's scholarship finder before applying because scholarships can differ according to:

• Study level
• Course
• Campus
• Nationality
• Academic performance
• Scholarship focus
• Application period

SCU's international scholarship applications are open throughout the year and generally close one month before the relevant study session.

Payment of Tuition Fees

For 2026, international tuition fees are generally due on the first Monday of each teaching period. The exact payment schedule depends on the teaching period in which the student is enrolled.

Students should follow the payment instructions and deadlines provided by SCU.

Cost Example for an International Student

Suppose an international student chooses an eligible course covered by Access26.

Annual tuition:

AUD 26,000

For a three-year degree at the current 2026 rate:

AUD 26,000 × 3 = AUD 78,000

This is an illustrative calculation. Future tuition fees may change, and SCU has stated that international fees will be indexed for 2027.

The Honest Verdict – Is Southern Cross University Worth the Cost?

Southern Cross University can be an attractive option for international students looking for practical education, flexible study options and a relatively straightforward tuition structure.

Southern Cross University Is an Excellent Choice If You...

• Want to study in Australia
• Prefer regional or coastal locations
• Are interested in Health or Nursing
• Want to study Business
• Are interested in Computing and IT
• Want to study Education
• Are interested in Environmental or Marine Science
• Want to study Engineering
• Are interested in Hospitality or Tourism
• Want access to international scholarships
• Prefer a university with a simplified international tuition model

It May Not Be the Right Fit If You...

• Prefer a large metropolitan university environment
• Want to study exclusively in Sydney or Melbourne
• Are looking for a university with every course covered by the same fee
• Want a course excluded from the Access26 initiative

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Cross University Fees

Q. How much does it cost to study at Southern Cross University?

A. For 2026, international tuition is AUD 26,000 per year for most eligible courses under Access26. Some courses are excluded and have separate fees.

Q. Does Southern Cross University offer scholarships to international students?

A. Yes. SCU offers a range of international scholarships, with eligibility assessed during the admissions process.

Q. Is the AUD 26,000 fee applicable to every course?

A. No. Access26 excludes courses including the Master of Nursing, Bachelor of Veterinary Technology, Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, Study Abroad, English Language Programs and Higher Degree Research courses.

Q. Can international students pay less than AUD 26,000?

A. Students studying fewer than eight units in a year are charged on a pro-rata basis. Scholarship opportunities may also help eligible students with their study costs.

Q. Will the tuition fee remain AUD 26,000 in 2027?

A. No. SCU states that international tuition fees will be indexed for 2027. Its current Access27 information lists AUD 27,000 per year for most eligible courses.

Q. Do international students need OSHC?

A. Yes. International students need appropriate Overseas Student Health Cover for their studies in Australia. SCU's international application materials include OSHC arrangements as part of the admission process.

A Final Word – Why Southern Cross University Deserves Your Consideration

Southern Cross University offers a combination of practical learning, regional and coastal campus locations, international student support and a simplified tuition structure. Its 2026 Access26 initiative makes tuition easier to understand for students choosing most eligible courses, with an annual fee of AUD 26,000.

Overall Verdict: Southern Cross University is worth considering for international students seeking practical, career-focused study in areas such as business, IT, health, education, engineering, environmental science, hospitality and veterinary sciences. Students should always check whether their chosen course is covered by Access26 and compare scholarships, accommodation and living expenses before applying.