Diverse mix of students

As an accessible and friendly university, we attract students from all over Melbourne, regional Victoria, interstate and overseas. Our students come here with different hopes and dreams. They come from many different countries and cultures, with diverse socio-economic and educational backgrounds.

Our student population include early school leavers enrolled in Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning and pre-apprenticeship programs, apprentices, TAFE diploma students. We have higher education undergraduate and postgraduate students undertaking course work and research based qualifications.

Our students come from the west of Melbourne, other parts of Melbourne and from other countries. They learn on campus, in workplaces (20%) and at offshore partner sites (16%).

Our students include those preparing to enter the workforce, as well as new entrants to work. We also have many experienced people seeking education to support their career development dreams. Many of our students are the first in family to participate in tertiary education. As with other universities, many of our students require support to succeed, which we provide through the many support services for students.

Engaging with the west

Melbourne’s western region is a growth corridor. With over 40,000 businesses across a range of industries, primarily focused on innovation and growth, we partner with such businesses to improve local communities. We aim to enhance the lives of those living and working in Melbourne’s west, and have fostered relationships including partnerships with:

• Western Bulldogs
• City West Water
• Western Health
• Western Jets Football Club
• Malthouse Theatre
• Maribyrnong City Council

International community

At VU, you will be joining a community of students and academics from all over the world, who will learn with you. During your time with us you will grow as a student, as an international citizen of the world, and as a person.

You can also take advantage of the many opportunities to study overseas as part of your degree. These opportunities allow you to study for up to year on exchange, or only a few short weeks on a study tour or short term program.

Campus life

We want to ensure you enjoy your time at uni. There are many social and learning opportunities both on and off campus that you can enjoy.

The first social event on your calendar should be orientation, which happens early in each semester. Orientation is designed to help you make the first connection with VU, creating social and networking opportunities for you!

Once you have settled into University life, there are leadership groups, sports, student societies, volunteer opportunities and competitions to suit everyone.

The introduction of the Student Services and Amenities Fee will help us continue to provide these non-academic services, to support you and make your student experience worthwhile.

Clubs and societies

You can make new friends by joining a university club or society. Find like-minded people studying your subject, students who live near your campus or just people with similar interests.

There are groups to cover almost any interest – from fashion and films, to philosophy, politics, religion and many more.

Join the VU Clubs and Societies Facebook group today!

Student spaces

Student lounge, 3N153, St Albans

We have innovative and contemporary student lounges and informal learning spaces available for all students to use at all our campuses.

Whether you need to meet for a group assignment or study session, or simply just to hang out over lunch, there are plenty of spaces available with wi-fi access, movable and fixed furniture, powerpoints and some kitchenette facilities.