The University of New South Wales (UNSW) and the University of Sydney (USYD) are two of Australia’s largest and most popular higher education institutions. Prospective students often discuss the differences between these universities, considering factors such as the facilities, courses, fees, and residential options. This article compares the two institutions based on several features, which may be helpful for those considering enrolling at either university.
Key Takeaways
- USYD is the oldest university in Australia, established in 1850, while UNSW was founded in 1949.
- UNSW and USYD are both public institutions, but UNSW has higher endowments, at $1.08 billion compared to USYD’s $937 million.
- UNSW is particularly known for its research activities and is a founding member of Universities 21, an international coalition of research-oriented universities.
UNSW is located in Kensington, Sydney, Australia, and its website can be found at http://www.unsw.edu.au/. USYD is also located in Sydney, in the suburb of Darlington, with teaching campuses spread throughout the city. Its website is sydney.edu.au.
USYD, also known as Sydney University, is the oldest university in Australia, having been established in 1850. With a student population of around 50,000, it is currently the second-largest university in the country. It was established under the University of Sydney Act, which sought to expand the existing Sydney College. The university received a Royal Charter in 1858 from Queen Victoria, granting recognition to its graduates on par with those from British universities.
The University of New South Wales, on the other hand, is a well-known university in the suburb of Sydney, New South Wales. It is especially renowned for its research-based activities and is a founder of Universities 21, an international coalition of research-oriented universities. UNSW was founded in 1949 and has a student population of over 46,000, making it the third-largest university in Australia.
According to the 2010 QS World University Rankings, USYD was ranked 37th globally and 5th in the Australian University Research Rankings. In comparison, UNSW ranked 46th worldwide and 4th in Australia.
While UNSW has nine faculties, USYD has 16, offering education in a broader range of subjects. Both universities are public institutions, but in terms of grants and endowments, USYD lags behind UNSW. While USYD received total endowments of $937 million in 2010, UNSW was ahead with total endowments of $1.08 billion.
A wide range of scholarships are available from UNSW, reflecting its commitment to excellence. These scholarships and financial assistance come in the form of annual stipends, living allowances, tuition fee waivers, and travel scholarships. USYD also awards generous scholarships totaling 1,350, amounting to $22 million. Different scholarships are available at undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels.
Both USYD and UNSW encourage and support various research activities, but UNSW, as a founding member of Universitas, is slightly ahead of USYD. In particular, UNSW focuses on research in climate change and sustainability, smart technology, creative media, and life-saving medical research. USYD also engages in various research activities, with special emphasis on engineering and biological sciences.
Both UNSW and USYD have a large number of international students from various ethnic backgrounds, with a significant number of Asian students enrolling in various programs at both universities.
In conclusion, both universities are important centers of learning and are actively engaged in research activities. Both are highly recognized worldwide, and the large number of international students attests to the importance attributed to these institutions.
