University of Western Australia — Resources Industry Edge, Outstanding Value
Founded in 1911, the University of Western Australia (UWA) is the only Go8 member in Western Australia. Its main Crawley campus sits on the banks of the Swan River, just minutes from Perth’s CBD.
Ranked in the QS global top 100, UWA has distinctive strengths in mining engineering, marine science and agricultural science. Deep connections with Western Australia’s powerful resources and energy sector provide students with unique career opportunities.
Free Assessment →UWA at a Glance
With around 25,000 students, UWA is compact but academically distinguished. It is Western Australia’s oldest university and the only WA institution in the global top 100. Nobel laureate Professor Barry Marshall, who discovered Helicobacter pylori, is among its most famous alumni.
UWA leads globally in earth sciences, marine biology and mining-related disciplines. Long-standing partnerships with BHP, Rio Tinto and other resources giants ensure exceptional career prospects for engineering and geoscience graduates.
Key Facts
- Founded
- 1911
- Location
- Perth, Western Australia
- QS World Ranking
- Top 100
- Total Students
- ~25,000
- International Students
- ~30%
- Nobel Laureates
- 1 (Barry Marshall)
Top Programmes at UWA
UWA excels in resources, marine and agricultural fields:
Mining Engineering
Ranked in the global top 20 by QS. Leveraging WA’s mining wealth, students access extensive internship and employment opportunities. Mining engineering graduates earn among the highest starting salaries in Australia.
Marine Science
World-leading marine science research, benefiting from proximity to the Indian Ocean and advanced marine research facilities. Strengths include marine biology, ocean engineering and marine environmental management.
Agriculture & Biological Sciences
Ranked in the global top 50 by QS, with strong research in crop improvement, soil science and sustainable agriculture. Multiple research stations and experimental farms support hands-on learning.
Psychology
Leading in Australia and ranked in the global top 50 by QS. Covers clinical, organisational and neuroscience psychology, accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
Admission Requirements Overview
Academic Requirements
Undergraduate ATAR equivalents range from 70 to 90, with overall entry thresholds being among the most accessible in the Go8. Postgraduate entry typically requires a bachelor’s average of 60-75+.
English Language
Most programmes require IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0). Education and some health science programmes require 7.0+. TOEFL (82+), PTE (58+) and equivalents are accepted.
Application Tips
UWA’s application process is streamlined with quick turnaround. Perth offers some of the lowest living costs among Go8 cities, and tuition is relatively affordable. Strongly recommended for students interested in mining or marine science.
Campus and Student Life
UWA’s Crawley campus on the Swan River is just 5 minutes from Perth’s CBD. The campus features Mediterranean-style sandstone buildings and manicured gardens, ranked among Australia’s most beautiful university campuses.
Perth is Australia’s sunniest capital city, with year-round mild weather. The city is clean, safe and offers beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Living costs are among the lowest of Australia’s major cities.
UWA has 150+ clubs and societies. The iconic Winthrop Hall and Sunken Garden host regular cultural and academic events. Comprehensive student support includes career guidance and mental health services.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What do mining engineering graduates earn?
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