The University of Melbourne was founded in 1853, making it Australia's second-oldest university and the oldest in the state of Victoria. Established as a public institution to advance education, research, and societal benefit during the colonial era, it began teaching in 1855 with faculties in arts, law, and medicine. Over the decades, it expanded significantly through post-war growth, curriculum reforms (including the Melbourne Model in the 2000s emphasizing broad undergraduate degrees followed by professional masters), mergers with affiliated institutions, and a focus on global research excellence, while maintaining its commitment to public good and innovation.
The University's main Parkville campus spans about 35 hectares in an inner northern suburb of Melbourne, featuring a blend of historic sandstone buildings, grand Victorian architecture, modern research facilities, and green spaces integrated into the city's vibrant urban fabric. Iconic landmarks include the Old Quad, the Ian Potter Museum of Art, the South Lawn, the historic Gate 10 entrance, and extensive libraries like the Baillieu Library. Additional specialist campuses exist across Victoria for agriculture, veterinary science, and other fields, plus emerging precincts in Fishermans Bend and elsewhere, all supported by excellent public transport links and proximity to Melbourne's cultural and business districts.
The University of Melbourne is a public research university governed by the University Council, its principal governing body responsible for strategy, policy, and oversight. As of early 2026, Emeritus Professor Glyn Davis AC serves as Interim Vice-Chancellor (the chief executive), following the passing of Professor Emma Johnston AO in late 2025; the Chancellor is Jane Hansen AO. The administration includes a Provost and various deputy vice-chancellors overseeing academic, research, and operational areas. It operates with substantial autonomy as a public institution, supported by government funding, tuition, philanthropy, and an endowment contributing to an annual budget in the billions of Australian dollars.
The University is organized into faculties and graduate schools covering arts, business and economics, education, engineering and IT, fine arts and music, law, medicine/dentistry/health sciences, science, veterinary/agricultural sciences, and more, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and research degrees. It consistently ranks as Australia's #1 university and among the global elite (#19 in QS World University Rankings 2026, #37 in Times Higher Education 2026, #38 in ARWU), with particular strengths in medicine, law, education, arts and humanities, engineering, and sustainability. Affiliated with multiple Nobel laureates and renowned for high research output, world-class facilities, and the distinctive Melbourne Model of broad undergraduate education leading to specialized postgraduate study.
The University enrolls over 65,000 students, including a highly international cohort from more than 100 countries (around 36% international), creating a dynamic, diverse, and intellectually engaging community. Student life centers on the Parkville campus with residential colleges offering accommodation and community, over hundreds of clubs and societies (from academic and cultural to sports, arts, and activism), vibrant events like orientation week, cultural festivals, and major sporting competitions. Melbourne's status as one of the world's most livable cities enhances the experience with access to cafes, arts scenes, parks, public transport, and outdoor activities, while the University provides strong support for wellbeing, career services, and inclusivity in a collaborative yet challenging academic environment.
Professors at The University of Melbourne
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