Australian Catholic University#Strathfield

Australian Catholic University was opened on 1 January 1991 following the amalgamation of four Catholic tertiary institutions in eastern Australia:{{cite book |last1=Kurian |first1=George Thomas |last2=Lamport |first2=Mark A. |title=Encyclopedia of Christian Education |date=7 May 2015 |publisher=Rowman & Littlefield |isbn=978-0-8108-8493-9 |page=104 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=e6YoCQAAQBAJ&pg=PA104 |language=en}}

• Catholic College of Education Sydney, New South Wales
• Institute of Catholic Education, Victoria
• McAuley College, Queensland
• Signadou College of Education, Australian Capital Territory

These institutions had their origins in the mid-1800s, when religious orders and institutes became involved in preparing teachers for Catholic schools and, later, nurses for Catholic hospitals. Through a series of amalgamations, relocations, transfers of responsibilities and diocesan initiatives, more than 20 historical entities have contributed to the creation of the university.{{cite web |title=ACU's history |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/reputation-and-ranking/history |website=www.acu.edu.au |language=en}}

ACU's vice-chancellor and president, Zlatko Skrbis, is responsible for representing the university both nationally and internationally and for providing strategic leadership and management. He holds a PhD in Sociology.{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eKezNAEACAAJ | title=Cosmopolitanism: Uses of the Idea | isbn=9781849200639 | last1=Skrbis | first1=Zlatko | last2=Woodward | first2=Ian | date=17 May 2013 | publisher=SAGE Publications }}

Deputy vice-chancellors have delegated responsibility for assigned areas of policy. These areas are academic, administration and resources, and research.

Each faculty is headed by an executive dean and supported by a number of associate deans and heads of schools.

File:Acu-rome-italy.jpg

File:(1)Mount Royal (Australian Catholic University) Strathfield-1.jpg

ACU has seven campuses across Australia: Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney (Blacktown, North Sydney, Strathfield) with a Leadership Centre in Adelaide and another in Townsville. In 2015, the university opened the Rome Centre, a collaboration with the Catholic University of America, located in Rome, Italy.[http://www.acu.edu.au/about_acu/campuses/rome_centre "Rome Centre"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821060034/https://www.acu.edu.au/locations/rome |date=21 August 2022 }}, ACU website

The Mount St Mary Campus in Strathfield is heritage listed.{{cite NSW SHR|5061554|Mount St Mary Campus of the Australian Catholic University|hr=01965|fn=EF14/6340|accessdate=8 February 2019}}

File:ACU Saint Teresa of Kolkata building, Melbourne campus.jpg

File:Acu-north-sydney.jpg

ACU is a publicly funded university{{Cite web |date=1 June 2025 |orig-date=19 December 2003 |title=Higher Education Support Act 2003 |url=https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A01234/2025-06-01/2025-06-01/text/original/pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708190904/https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A01234/2025-06-01/2025-06-01/text/original/pdf |archive-date=8 July 2025 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Federal Register of Legislation (Office of Parliamentary Counsel) |publisher=Australian Government |page=49 |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} and a member of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities,{{Cite web |title=Australian Catholic University |url=https://members.accunet.org/atlas/directory/category/international/Australian-Catholic-University-184 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241129232004/https://members.accunet.org/atlas/directory/category/international/Australian-Catholic-University-184 |archive-date=29 November 2024 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities |place=Washington, D.C. (United States) |language=en-US}} International Council of Universities of Saint Thomas Aquinas{{Cite web |title=Members |url=https://www.icusta.org/about/members/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417032626/https://www.icusta.org/about/members/ |archive-date=17 April 2024 |access-date=17 April 2024 |website=International Council of Universities in the Spirit of St Thomas Aquinas |language=en-US |publication-place=Houston, Texas}} and the International Federation of Catholic Universities.{{Cite web |title=Australian catholic university (ACU) |url=https://www.fiuc.org/bdf_organisme-3_en.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202162034/https://www.fiuc.org/bdf_organisme-3_en.html |archive-date=2 December 2023 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=International Federation of Catholic Universities |language=en-US |publication-place=Paris, France}} Most of its programs function on a semester system, operating year-round on academic semesters, summer and winter schools.{{Cite web |title=Study periods |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/important-dates/study-periods |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250419105835/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/important-dates/study-periods |archive-date=19 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} It is also affiliated with several Catholic organisations in Australia.{{Cite web |title=Catholic Partners |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/faith-and-values/catholic-partners |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250419234009/https://www.acu.edu.au/faith-and-values/catholic-partners |archive-date=19 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

In the 2024 academic year, it employed 2503.8 full-time equivalent staff, 1,207.8 of whom were academic staff and the remaining 1,296 non-academic staff.{{Cite web |date=May 2025 |title=Annual Report 2024 |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/-/media/feature/pagecontent/richtext/about-acu/leadership-and-governance/_docs/2024/web_ritm0232798-2024-annual-report.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708193100/https://www.acu.edu.au/-/media/feature/pagecontent/richtext/about-acu/leadership-and-governance/_docs/2024/web_ritm0232798-2024-annual-report.pdf |archive-date=8 July 2025 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} The recognised trade union at ACU is the National Tertiary Education Union which represents staff through its offices across multiple states.{{Cite web |title=Contacts |url=https://www.nteu.au/NTEU/Contacts.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250704044310/https://www.nteu.au/NTEU/Contacts.aspx |archive-date=4 July 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=National Tertiary Education Union of Australia |language=en-AU |publication-place=Melbourne, Victoria}} It is responsible for negotiating the Enterprise Agreement with the university.{{Cite web |title=NTEU disputes staff cuts following ACU staff agreement |url=https://www.nteu.au/News_Articles/National/NTEU_disputes_staff_cuts.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613111721/https://www.nteu.au/News_Articles/National/NTEU_disputes_staff_cuts.aspx |archive-date=13 June 2024 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=National Tertiary Education Union of Australia |language=en-AU |publication-place=Melbourne, Victoria}} The university also has international staff exchange agreements with universities outside Australia.{{Cite web |title=International partners |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/our-partnerships/international-partners |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250702022722/https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/our-partnerships/international-partners |archive-date=2 July 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

ACU offers study programs in the fields of commerce, healthcare, education, information technology, psychology, law and several fields in the arts and sciences.{{Cite web |title=Find a course |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/find-a-course |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250606092316/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/find-a-course |archive-date=6 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Some programs can be combined into "double degrees" or include additional majors.{{Cite web |title=Guidelines for Bachelor and Double Bachelor Programs |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/handbook/handbook-2022/policies-and-general-information/guidelines-for-bachelor-and-double-bachelor-programs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250327065837/https://www.acu.edu.au/handbook/handbook-2022/policies-and-general-information/guidelines-for-bachelor-and-double-bachelor-programs |archive-date=27 March 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} The university also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) among other research programs.{{Cite web |title=Graduate research |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/research-and-enterprise/graduate-research-school/study |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607002236/https://www.acu.edu.au/research-and-enterprise/graduate-research-school/study |archive-date=7 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

ACU possesses self-accrediting authority from the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency{{Cite web |title=Australian Catholic University Limited |url=https://www.teqsa.gov.au/provider/australian-catholic-university-limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250620065006/https://www.teqsa.gov.au/provider/australian-catholic-university-limited |archive-date=20 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency |language=en-AU |publication-place=Melbourne, Victoria}} and also has numerous additional specialised accreditations for its programs. Its teacher education programs{{Efn|In the Australian Capital Territory, its teacher education programs are cross-accredited through the Victorian Institute of Teachers.{{Cite web |date=17 July 2023 |title=Initial Teacher Education |url=https://www.tqi.act.edu.au/accreditation/initial-teacher-education |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250315000428/https://www.tqi.act.edu.au/accreditation/initial-teacher-education |archive-date=15 March 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=ACT Teacher Quality Institute |publisher=Government of the Australian Capital Territory |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}}} are accredited by the Queensland College of Teachers,{{Cite web |title=What degrees are approved for teacher registration Qld? |url=https://www.qct.edu.au/teaching-in-queensland/approved-accredited-teacher-education-programs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250623125242/https://www.qct.edu.au/teaching-in-queensland/approved-accredited-teacher-education-programs |archive-date=23 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Queensland College of Teachers |language=en-AU |publication-place=Brisbane, Queensland}} NSW Education Standards Authority{{Cite web |date=28 September 2023 |title=Accredited teaching degrees |url=https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/teacher-accreditation/study-teaching/accredited-degrees |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120055545/https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/teacher-accreditation/study-teaching/accredited-degrees |archive-date=20 November 2024 |access-date=11 January 2025 |website=NSW Education Standards Authority |publisher=Government of New South Wales |language=en-AU |publication-place=Sydney, New South Wales}} and the Victorian Institute of Teaching.{{Cite web |date=18 September 2024 |title=VIT accredited initial teacher education programs |url=https://www.vit.vic.edu.au/education-providers/education-those-who-wish-become-teachers/vit-accredited-ite-programs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250428022514/https://www.vit.vic.edu.au/education-providers/education-those-who-wish-become-teachers/vit-accredited-ite-programs |archive-date=28 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Victorian Institute of Teaching |language=en-AU |publication-place=Melbourne, Victoria}} Its law programs are accredited by the relevant lawyer registration boards{{Efn|Legal Profession Admission Board in New South Wales,{{Cite web |date=9 October 2024 |title=Accredited Law courses & PLT providers |url=https://lpab.nsw.gov.au/admission-lawyer/accredited-law-courses-plt-providers.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250111014248/https://lpab.nsw.gov.au/admission-lawyer/accredited-law-courses-plt-providers.html |archive-date=11 January 2025 |access-date=11 January 2025 |website=Legal Profession Admission Board |publisher=Government of New South Wales |language=en-AU |publication-place=Sydney, New South Wales}} the Queensland Law Society and the Victorian Legal Admissions Board.{{Cite web |title=I have an Australian law degree |url=https://www.lawadmissions.vic.gov.au/how-to-apply-for-admission/i-have-an-australian-law-degree |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250508221310/https://www.lawadmissions.vic.gov.au/how-to-apply-for-admission/i-have-an-australian-law-degree |archive-date=8 May 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Victorian Legal Admissions Board |language=en-AU |publication-place=Melbourne, Victoria}}}} in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.{{Cite web |title=Bachelor of Laws |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/course/bachelor-of-laws |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250615082757/https://www.acu.edu.au/course/bachelor-of-laws |archive-date=15 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Its information technology courses are accredited by the Australian Computer Society{{Cite web |title=Accredited Courses |url=https://www.acs.org.au/cpd-education/accredited-courses.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250522085301/https://www.acs.org.au/cpd-education/accredited-courses.html |archive-date=22 May 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Computer Society |language=en-AU |publication-place=Sydney, New South Wales}} and healthcare programs with the relevant National Board of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency or their affiliated agencies.{{Cite web |title=Accreditation authorities |url=https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Accreditation/Accreditation-Authorities.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203060042/https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Accreditation/Accreditation-Authorities.aspx |archive-date=3 December 2024 |access-date=11 January 2025 |website=Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency |language=en-AU |publication-place=Melbourne, Victoria}} Most programs are also recognised in other states, territories and New Zealand through reciprocal arrangements.{{Cite web |title=AQF qualifications |url=https://www.aqf.edu.au/framework/aqf-qualifications |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215064344/https://www.aqf.edu.au/framework/aqf-qualifications |archive-date=15 December 2024 |access-date=11 January 2025 |website=Australian Qualifications Framework |publisher=Department of Education (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}{{Cite web |date=2014 |title=A User's Guide: To the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) and the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement (TTMRA) |url=https://www.mbie.govt.nz/dmsdocument/1513-users-guide-to-the-trans-tasman-mutual-recognition-arrangement-pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713104744/https://www.mbie.govt.nz/dmsdocument/1513-users-guide-to-the-trans-tasman-mutual-recognition-arrangement-pdf |archive-date=13 July 2024 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=15 December 2024 |website=Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (New Zealand Government) |publisher=Australian Government |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}

For most programs, the academic year at ACU is divided into two semesters, with summer and winter terms in between. The first semester runs from March to June and the second semester from August to November, including mid-semester vacation and examination weeks.{{Cite web |title=Academic year calendar 2025 |url=https://staff.acu.edu.au/our_university/calendars/academic_year_calendar/academic-year-calendar-2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250421084959/https://staff.acu.edu.au/our_university/calendars/academic_year_calendar/academic-year-calendar-2025 |archive-date=21 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} All terms usually start on a Monday and there is an "Orientation Week", informally known as "O Week", for first-year students prior to the start of each semester.{{Cite web |date=7 July 2022 |title=How to make the most of O Week as an international student |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/news/2022/july/how-to-make-the-most-of-o-week-as-an-international-student |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250421143506/https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/news/2022/july/how-to-make-the-most-of-o-week-as-an-international-student |archive-date=21 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

Certain courses adopt different academic calendars and students may also have additional mandatory attendance requirements, including placements and clinical practicums, required to meet their academic requirements at the university.{{Cite web |title=Assessment Policy |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/handbook/handbook-2021/policies-and-general-information/assessment---policy-and-procedure/assessment-policy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250522135024/https://www.acu.edu.au/handbook/handbook-2021/policies-and-general-information/assessment---policy-and-procedure/assessment-policy |archive-date=22 May 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

For international students starting in 2025, tuition fees range from {{AUD|26,040}} to {{AUD|43,784}} per academic year for award programs lasting at least one year.{{Cite web |date=August 2024 |title=2025 Schedule of tuition fees (International) |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/-/media/feature/pagecontent/richtext/study-at-acu/fees-and-scholarhsips/acu-2025-schedule-of-tuition-fees.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919225435/https://www.acu.edu.au/-/media/feature/pagecontent/richtext/study-at-acu/fees-and-scholarhsips/acu-2025-schedule-of-tuition-fees.pdf |archive-date=19 September 2024 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Domestic students{{Efn|According to the Higher Education Support Act 2003, domestic students include permanent residents and New Zealand citizens in addition to Australian citizens.{{Cite web |date=16 November 2023 |title=5. Domestic and overseas students |url=https://www.education.gov.au/higher-education-publications/higher-education-administrative-information-providers-october-2021/5-domestic-and-overseas-students |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240921075810/https://www.education.gov.au/higher-education-publications/higher-education-administrative-information-providers-october-2021/5-domestic-and-overseas-students |archive-date=21 September 2024 |access-date=12 November 2024 |website=Department of Education |publisher=Australian Capital Territory |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}|name=Domestic students}} may be offered a federally-subsidised Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) which substantially decreases the student contribution amount billed to the student.{{Cite web |date=30 July 2024 |title=Commonwealth supported places (CSPs) |url=https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/commonwealth-supported-places-csps |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250118030734/https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/commonwealth-supported-places-csps |archive-date=18 January 2025 |access-date=7 February 2025 |website=Study Assist |publisher=Department of Education (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} The maximum student contribution amount limits that can be applied to CSP students are dependent on the field of study.{{Cite web |date=7 January 2025 |title=Student contribution amounts |url=https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/commonwealth-supported-places/student-contribution-amounts |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250121194609/https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/commonwealth-supported-places/student-contribution-amounts |archive-date=21 January 2025 |access-date=7 February 2025 |website=Study Assist |publisher=Department of Education (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}

Since 2021, Commonwealth Supported Places have also been limited to 7 years of equivalent full-time study load (EFTSL), calculated in the form of Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=Student learning entitlement (SLE) |url=https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/student-learning-entitlement-sle |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241221002359/https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/student-learning-entitlement-sle |archive-date=21 December 2024 |access-date=3 January 2025 |website=Study Assist |publisher=Department of Education (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} Students may accrue additional SLE under some circumstances (e.g. starting a separate one-year honours program) or every 10 years. Domestic students are also able to access the HECS-HELP student loans scheme offered by the federal government.{{Cite web |date=10 January 2025 |title=HECS-HELP |url=https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/hecs-help |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250129101829/https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/hecs-help |archive-date=29 January 2025 |access-date=7 February 2025 |website=Study Assist |publisher=Department of Education (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} These are indexed to the Consumer or Wage Price Index, whichever is lower, and repayments are voluntary until the recipient passes an income threshold.

ACU also offers several scholarships, which come in the form of bursaries or tuition fee remission.{{Cite web |title=Scholarships |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250420183404/http://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships |archive-date=20 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Domestic students studying full-time may also receive social security payments for the duration of their studies{{Cite web |date=21 January 2025 |title=Payments you can get while studying |url=https://my.gov.au/en/services/education/help-when-studying/financial-help-while-studying/payments-you-can-get-while-studying |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250325212428/https://my.gov.au/en/services/education/help-when-studying/financial-help-while-studying/payments-you-can-get-while-studying |archive-date=25 March 2025 |access-date=27 March 2025 |website=myGov |publisher=Australian Government |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} and there is a Relocation Scholarship for students moving to or from a regional areas in Australia.{{Cite web |date=5 April 2022 |title=Relocation Scholarship |url=https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/relocation-scholarship |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250329230319/https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/relocation-scholarship |archive-date=29 March 2025 |access-date=3 April 2025 |website=Services Australia |publisher=Department of Social Services (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}

ACU offers two routes for students to apply depending on their circumstances: a direct application and an application submitted through a shared admissions portal.{{Cite web |title=Undergraduate applications |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/how-to-apply/undergraduate-students |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607002221/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/how-to-apply/undergraduate-students |archive-date=7 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Applicants who want an earlier, binding decision can apply via the ACU Guarantee early offer program; others apply through regular decision.{{Cite web |title=ACU Guarantee |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/acu-guarantee |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250610063505/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/acu-guarantee |archive-date=10 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} The Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC) and the Victorian Tertiary Admission Centre (VTAC) are the administrative bodies processing applications for prospective students for the states of Queensland and Victoria respectively and the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) manages applications for New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

ACU considers various factors in its admissions process including a competitive Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) or equivalent, a Grade Point Average (GPA) from prior higher education, vocational qualifications, competitive scores from a Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) and prior work experience.{{Cite web |title=Undergraduate entry requirements at ACU |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/how-to-apply/undergraduate-students/undergraduate-entry-requirements |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250520184138/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/how-to-apply/undergraduate-students/undergraduate-entry-requirements |archive-date=20 May 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Alternatively, it also offers a number of bridging programs that provide direct entry into most courses.{{Cite web |title=Education pathways |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/education-pathways |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250614072914/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/education-pathways |archive-date=14 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

Applicants in certain cohorts, including those with elite athlete status{{Cite web |title=I am an elite athlete or performer |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/i-am-an-elite-athlete-or-performer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607002221/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/i-am-an-elite-athlete-or-performer |archive-date=7 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} or socio-economic disadvantage, may also be eligible for additional adjustment factors granted to their overall selection rank.{{Cite web |title=Adjustment factors |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/choose-your-pathway-or-entry-program/recent-secondary-education/adjustment-factors |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427194151/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/choose-your-pathway-or-entry-program/recent-secondary-education/adjustment-factors |archive-date=27 April 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} There are also alternative pathways available for applicants with military service in the Australian Defence Force.{{Cite web |title=Military University Pathway |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/i-have-completed-military-service |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607002236/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/i-have-completed-military-service |archive-date=7 June 2025 |access-date=8 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

{{Infobox Australian university ranking|QS_W=851–900|USNWR_W=384|type=University|QS_W_year=2026|THE_W==401–500|THE_W_year=2025|USNWR_W_year=25/26|ERA_N=34|ERA_N_year=2018|QS_N=33|QS_N_year=2026|THE_N==26|THE_N_year=2025|USNWR_N=22|USNWR_N_year=25/26|AFR_N=26|AFR_N_year=2024|ARWU_W=601–700|ARWU_N_year=2024|ARWU_N=26–28|ARWU_W_year=2024|CWTS_W=895|CWTS_W_year=2024|CWTS_N_year=2024|CWTS_N=28}}

; National publications

In the Australian Financial Review Best Universities Ranking 2024, the university was ranked #26 amongst Australian universities.{{Cite web |title=Best Universities Ranking |url=https://www.afr.com/lists-and-awards/best-universities-ranking |website=Australian Financial Review |publisher=Nine Entertainment |language=en-AU |publication-place=Sydney, New South Wales}}

; Global publications

In the 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings (published 2025), the university attained a position of #851–900 (33rd nationally).{{cite web |title=QS World University Rankings: Top Global Universities |url=https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings |website=QS World University Rankings |publisher=Quacquarelli Symonds |language=en-GB |publication-place=London, United Kingdom}}

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 (published 2024), the university attained a tied position of #401–500 (tied 26th nationally).{{cite web |title=World University Rankings |url=https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings |work=Times Higher Education |publisher=Inflexion |language=en-GB |publication-place=London, United Kingdom}}

In the 2024 Academic Ranking of World Universities, the university attained a position of #601–700 (tied 26–28th nationally).{{cite web |title=ShanghaiRanking's Academic Ranking of World Universities |url=https://www.shanghairanking.com/rankings |website=Academic Ranking of World Universities |publisher=Shanghai Ranking Consultancy |language=en |publication-place=Shanghai, China}}

In the 2025–2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities, the university attained a position of #354 (22nd nationally).{{Cite web |title=Best Global Universities Rankings |url=https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities/rankings |website=U.S. News & World Report |language=en-US |publication-place=Washington, D.C., United States}}

In the CWTS Leiden Ranking 2024,{{efn|The CWTS Leiden Ranking is based on P (top 10%).|name=a}} the university attained a position of #895 (28th nationally).{{Cite web |title=CWTS Leiden Ranking |url=https://www.leidenranking.com/ranking/2024/list |website=CWTS Leiden Ranking (Centre for Science and Technology Studies) |publisher=Leiden University |language=en |publication-place=Leiden, Netherlands}}

The Australian Government's QILT{{Efn|Abbreviation for Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching.}} conducts national surveys documenting the student life cycle from enrolment through to employment. These surveys place more emphasis on criteria such as student experience, graduate outcomes and employer satisfaction{{Cite web |title=About |url=https://www.qilt.edu.au/About |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241210233608/https://www.qilt.edu.au/About |archive-date=10 December 2024 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=2 January 2025 |website=Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching |publisher=Australian Government |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} than perceived reputation, research output and citation counts.{{Cite web |last=Bridgestock |first=Laura |date=19 April 2021 |title=World University Ranking Methodologies Compared |url=https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings-articles/world-university-rankings/world-university-ranking-methodologies-compared |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215004540/https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings-articles/world-university-rankings/world-university-ranking-methodologies-compared |archive-date=15 December 2024 |access-date=2 January 2025 |website=Quacquarelli Symonds |language=en-GB |publication-place=London, United Kingdom}}

In the 2023 Employer Satisfaction Survey, ACU graduates had an overall employer satisfaction rate of 88.9%.{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=2023 Employer Satisfaction Survey |url=https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/2023-ess-national-report.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241223125912/https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/2023-ess-national-report.pdf |archive-date=23 December 2024 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=2 January 2025 |website=Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching |publisher=Australian Government |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}

In the 2023 Graduate Outcomes Survey, ACU had a full-time employment rate of 82.7% for undergraduates and 93.6% for postgraduates.{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=2023 Graduate Outcomes Survey: National Report |url=https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/2023-gos-national-report.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240924002028/https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/2023-gos-national-report.pdf |archive-date=24 September 2024 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=20 December 2024 |website=Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching |publisher=Australian Government |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}} The initial full-time salary was {{AUD|70,000}} for undergraduates and {{AUD|94,400}} for postgraduates.

In the 2023 Student Experience Survey, ACU undergraduates rated the quality of their entire educational experience at 78% meanwhile postgraduates rated their overall education experience at 74.7%.{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=2023 Student Experience Survey |url=https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/ses-national-report.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241126105436/https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/ses-national-report.pdf |archive-date=26 November 2024 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=2 January 2025 |website=Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching |publisher=Australian Government |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}

High-performing students at ACU can have their scholastic distinctions be recognised at graduation on their testamurs and official transcripts.{{Cite web |title=Academic Regulations |url=https://policy.acu.edu.au/document/view.php?id=262 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250618142438/https://policy.acu.edu.au/document/view.php?id=262 |archive-date=18 June 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} Graduates must achieve a minimum weighted average mark (WAM) of 75% to graduate with Distinction or 85% or higher to graduate with High Distinction.

Students who achieve a cumulative GPA of 5.5 or higher may be eligible to complete an honours supervised research program.{{Cite web |title=Guidelines for Honours Program |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/handbook/handbook-2022/policies-and-general-information/guidelines-for-honours-programs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250423150710/https://www.acu.edu.au/handbook/handbook-2022/policies-and-general-information/guidelines-for-honours-programs |archive-date=23 April 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} These are graded in classes (e.g. First Class Honours) and qualify students to enrol in research degrees such as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs.{{Cite web |date=24 June 2024 |title=Can you do a PhD without honours? |url=https://study.uq.edu.au/stories/can-you-do-phd-without-honours |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250103223112/https://study.uq.edu.au/stories/can-you-do-phd-without-honours |archive-date=3 January 2025 |access-date=3 January 2025 |website=The University of Queensland |language=en-AU |publication-place=Brisbane, Queensland}} Students receive an additional 1 SLE{{Efn|Stands for Student Learning Entitlement. Students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) usually receive 7 years of full-time equivalent subsidised tuition rates but can accrue more under certain conditions or over time.}} for appended honours.{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=Student learning entitlement (SLE) |url=https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/student-learning-entitlement-sle |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241221002359/https://www.studyassist.gov.au/financial-and-study-support/student-learning-entitlement-sle |archive-date=21 December 2024 |access-date=3 January 2025 |website=Study Assist |publisher=Department of Education (Australian Government) |language=en-AU |publication-place=Canberra, Australian Capital Territory}}

Graduates who achieve the highest WAM in each faculty also receive the University Medal.{{Cite web |title=Recognition of Academic Excellence Procedure |url=https://policy.acu.edu.au/document/view.php?id=218 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250616010614/https://policy.acu.edu.au/document/view.php?id=218 |archive-date=16 June 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} There are also separate University Honours Medals for graduates who have completed an honours program.{{Cite web |title=Awards and medals |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/student-life/graduation/awards-and-medals |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250327035332/https://www.acu.edu.au/student-life/graduation/awards-and-medals |archive-date=27 March 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

While having a religious affiliation is not a criterion for admission,{{Cite web |title=What if I am not Catholic at ACU? |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/mission-identity-and-values/what-if-i-am-not-catholic |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250702022808/https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/mission-identity-and-values/what-if-i-am-not-catholic |archive-date=2 July 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} ACU identifies as a Roman Catholic university with a Catholic core curriculum{{Cite web |title=ACU's Core Curriculum |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/find-a-course/core-curriculum |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250615020900/https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/find-a-course/core-curriculum |archive-date=15 June 2025 |access-date=2025-07-09 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} and religious extracurricular activities outside of academic studies.{{Cite web |title=Faith and Values |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/faith-and-values |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250614201357/https://www.acu.edu.au/faith-and-values |archive-date=14 June 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} It also follows the Ex corde Ecclesiae,{{Cite web |last=Coppen |first=Luke |date=5 December 2024 |title=What's happening at Australian Catholic University? |url=https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/whats-happening-at-australian-catholic |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607183218/https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/whats-happening-at-australian-catholic |archive-date=7 June 2025 |access-date=9 July 2025 |website=The Pillar |language=en-AU}} an apostolic constitution for Catholic universities.{{Cite web |last=Paul |first=John |author-link=Pope John Paul II |date=15 August 1990 |title=Apostolic Constitution of the Supreme Pontiff John Paul II on Catholic Universities |url=https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_15081990_ex-corde-ecclesiae.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250111053718/https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_15081990_ex-corde-ecclesiae.html |archive-date=11 January 2025 |access-date=19 January 2025 |website=Holy See |language=en |publication-place=Vatican City}}

ACU has a campus ministry and chapel across its seven Australian campuses (excluding Rome),{{Cite web |title=ACU Campus Ministry |url=https://campusministry.acu.edu.au/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250526220218/https://campusministry.acu.edu.au/ |archive-date=26 May 2025 |access-date=10 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} each with a designated chaplain and/or pastoral associate.{{Cite web |title=Contact ACU Campus Ministry |url=https://campusministry.acu.edu.au/contact-us |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250526224030/https://campusministry.acu.edu.au/contact-us |archive-date=26 May 2025 |access-date=10 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} These include the Holy Spirit Chapel in Brisbane, Barron Memorial Chapel in Strathfield, Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Chapel in North Sydney, Signadou Chapel in Canberra, St Josephine Bakhita Chapel in Blacktown, St Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) Chapel in Melbourne and the St Thomas Aquinas Chapel in Ballarat. The chapels are places of worship that run regular Mass services.

The stated purpose of the campus ministry is to "[provide] opportunities for students and staff to deepen their experience of faith and use their gifts and talents in service to the world".{{Cite web |title=Mission, identity and values at ACU |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/mission-identity-and-values |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250523025443/https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/mission-identity-and-values |archive-date=23 May 2025 |access-date=10 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} ACU offers programming for Catholic liturgical services and traditions including Mass, sacraments, communal prayer, worship, group bible study, choir, music and social ministry.{{Cite web |title=ACU Campus Ministry Strathfield |url=https://campusministry.acu.edu.au/strathfield |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250612162816/https://campusministry.acu.edu.au/strathfield |archive-date=12 June 2025 |access-date=10 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}{{Cite web |title=ACU National Choirs |url=https://aculife.acu.edu.au/choir/home/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250617141327/https://aculife.acu.edu.au/choir/home/ |archive-date=17 June 2025 |access-date=10 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}} It also runs pilgrimages and religious "immersion opportunities", including an annual pilgrimage on World Youth Day.{{Cite web |title=Pilgrimages |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/faith-and-values/pilgrimages |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250515025124/https://www.acu.edu.au/faith-and-values/pilgrimages |archive-date=15 May 2025 |access-date=10 July 2025 |website=Australian Catholic University |language=en-AU}}

Each ACU campus has a student representative council and there is a national student body called the Australian Catholic University National Students' Association (ACUNSA), which advocates on behalf of students both individually and collectively.

The university hosts an annual national sporting event – the ACU Games – and students also compete in Australia's largest annual multisport event, the Australian University Games.

In March 2023, controversy broke out on campus when librarians were ordered to remove the rainbow flags that had been displayed across campuses. Staff and students wrote an open letter to the university's Vice-Chancellor Zlatko Skrbis claiming that his acts were "a direct affront to ACU's mission to act in truth and love in the pursuit of knowledge, the dignity of the human person, and the common good".{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Lucy Carroll, Christopher |date=2023-03-15 |title=University orders staff to remove public display of rainbow flags |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/university-orders-staff-to-remove-public-display-of-rainbow-flags-20230315-p5csaa.html |access-date=2023-10-11 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en}} The university's position against LGBT visibility appeared consistent with its earlier refusal to allow the Gay and Lesbian Teachers and Students Association to establish an LGBT+ support group on its Strathfield campus,Leech, Graeme. (7 October 1992). 'Campus Rejects Gay Support Group'. Page 14: 'Higher Education'. The Australian. but to depart from Pope Francis' increasingly affirming stance on LGBT topics.

In July 2023, ACU launched an internal investigation into its contracts with Asset Group Solutions. AGS had provided security and cleaning services to ACU but its founder had been charged with corruption. Stephen Weller (Chief Operating Officer and Deputy-Vice Chancellor) had been warned in 2018 about AGS's conduct but did not act on those warnings.{{Cite news |date=2023-07-12 |title='I was told to shut up': Australian Catholic University accused of ignoring concerns about security contractor |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-13/acu-inquiring-into-security-contractor-asset-group-solutions/102584740 |access-date=2023-10-11}} ACU responded by denying knowledge of AGS's criminal activities and has launched an internal investigation.{{Cite web |title=ACU response to ABC story |url=https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/news/2023/july/acu-response-to-abc-news-story |access-date=2023-10-11 |website=www.acu.edu.au |language=en}}

HDR students have objected to a change plan introduced in September 2023 that would eliminate positions occupied by their supervisors leaving them without supervisors with the relevant expertise for their projects.{{Cite web |last=Groch |first=Sherryn |date=2023-09-23 |title=An Australian uni headhunted them from Oxford, Cambridge and Yale. Now they face redundancy |url=https://www.theage.com.au/education/an-australian-uni-headhunted-them-from-oxford-cambridge-and-yale-now-they-face-redundancy-20230915-p5e4y7.html |access-date=2023-10-11 |website=The Age |language=en}}

In September 2023, ACU announced plans to cut 113 full-time jobs, most of which were at the Melbourne campus. This was part of spending cuts intended to reduce a forecast $30 million deficit and respond to shrinking enrollments. The cuts were announced as a $250 million campus building, which was constructed to accommodate student and staff growth, neared completion.{{Cite web |last=Carey |first=Adam |date=2023-02-15 |title=Australian Catholic Uni cuts 110 jobs, 40 in Melbourne, as enrolments shrink, costs rise |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/australian-catholic-uni-cuts-110-jobs-mostly-in-melbourne-as-enrolments-shrink-costs-rise-20230215-p5cko6.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en}} This has produced an international response in which many academics denounced the university. Timothy Williamson, a professor of philosophy at Oxford and Yale, told reporters that ACU's meteoric rise to the pinnacle of research in philosophy was "unprecedented" but that cuts would give ACU the reputation "as a Mickey Mouse university ... damaging the good international standing of the Australian university system as a whole".

In January 2024, ACU removed Kate Galloway AM, the newly appointed Dean of the Thomas More Law School, when it was discovered that she had pro-choice views. She was paid A$1.1 million to leave her position during a time when the university was facing financial turmoil and despite a 2019 model code that requires universities to respect the academic freedom of their staff.{{Cite web |date=2024-08-26 |title=Catholic university pays A$1.1 million to abortion row law dean |url=https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/catholic-university-pays-a11-million-abortion-row-law-dean#:~:text=Firm%20whose%20lawyer%20helped%20initiate,position%20%E2%80%9Cwith%20immediate%20effect%E2%80%9D. |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=Times Higher Education (THE) |language=en}}

{{Category see also|Australian Catholic University alumni}}

• Matt Burke – former international rugby union player and sport presenter
• Ellie Cole – paralympic swimmer and wheelchair basketball player
• Ben Cummins – former rugby league referee
• Martin Dixon – politician
• Sean Eadie – retired professional track cyclist
• Paul Field – musician, filmmaker and author
• Sam Hibbins – politician
• Kristina Keneally – politician
• John Kennedy – politician
• Justin Madden – former Australian rules footballer and state politician
• Simon Madden – former Australian rules footballer
• Melina Marchetta – writer and teacher
• Paul Mellor – former professional rugby league footballer
• Bronwen Neil – Professor of Ancient History at Macquarie University
• Deborah O'Neill – politician
• Camille Agnes Becker Paul – feminist, moral theologian and activist
• Muriel Porter – journalist
• Liam Simmons – basketball coach and former player
• Gregory D. Smithers – professor of American history at Virginia Commonwealth University
• Madeleine Steere – professional water polo centre back
• Anba Suriel – bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Los Angeles
• James Tedesco – professional rugby league footballer
• Morris West – novelist and playwright
• Alan Whiticker – non-fiction author and publisher
• Guy Zangari – former politician

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• List of universities in Australia
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