Student on balcony with Wollongong in the background

A university city

There’s always something happening in Wollongong – so if you want to make it your home, here’s why it is the perfect place to be a student.

Wollongong: a university city

In a prime location between the mountains and the Tasman Sea, the Illawarra region is an adventurers dream filled with trails that lead to waterfalls, wildlife and breathtaking lookout points. Whether you run, walk or cycle, do it with a view along the spectacular coastline overlooking scenic rock pools and 17 patrolled beaches.

If your study break doesn’t involve the great outdoors, grab a bite to eat at the food markets throughout the week or visit one of ‘The Gong's’ student haunts. In vibrant coastal city filled with a bustling nightlife and a growing live music and arts scene, through to beautiful botanic gardens and peaceful study spots – you’ll soon find your place to learn, live and belong.

The heart of a region

Studying at UOW is bigger than showing up for class each day. It’s joining a community of students at our campuses around the world, and those at our Wollongong campus who are helping to shape the region into the ultimate university destination.

From rural Australia to the other side of the world, UOW is filled with people from all kinds of backgrounds. About 28 per cent of students are from regional and rural areas. A diverse cohort of international students are also proud to call Wollongong home.

Almost 10,000 students commence at our University each year. They're supported by staff working in teaching, research, and professional services, who all play a vital role within the Illawarra, enriching its culture, diversity and economy.

Diggies cafe at North Beach Wollongong

Built on industry

UOW is committed to new industries and the jobs of the future. We prepare our students for those jobs, and we help create those jobs through education, research and innovation. Central to this is UOW’s Innovation Campus, an award-winning research and technology precinct located in Wollongong. Already, 15 innovative organisations from around the world have co-located at the site with UOW’s leading research institutes. This campus is also home to the iAccelerate Centre, designed to help foster the next generation of entrepreneurs and grow innovative startup businesses.