Connecting Australian Indigenous students with higher education.
Australian Indigenous students
UC wish to acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the land we are meeting on and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.
Find your fit at UC
UC is where you belong.
Starting your journey towards university can be a big step, but we have staff and students ready to help you all along the way. It is important to choose a university that respects Indigenous knowledge, fosters a sense of community, and knows how to empower the next generation.
At UC, you can explore your passions and get the support you need to complete your degree. Our commitment to you goes beyond the classroom; we also focus on your wellbeing, ease of access to university resources, and future career success.
Whether you want to move into higher education or seek a course to elevate your career, you’ll find your fit at UC. We offer a variety of flexible entry and study options with specialised support for Australian Indigenous students.
UC takes pride in being #1 in Canberra for full-time employment, skills development, and starting salaries*. If you’re seeking a university that embraces you and you and helps you acquire the skills and expertise to strengthen your community, then UC could be your perfect fit.
*Good Universities Guide, 2024
Australian Indigenous student resources
Cultural, physical and mental wellness support
Cultural, physical and mental wellness support
UC provides a culturally safe and welcoming space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. This includes access to UC's cultural spaces and on campus services for physical and mental wellbeing.
Ngunnawal Centre
Ngunnawal Centre
The Ngunnawal Centre is committed to providing greater access to the University through partnerships and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It is a culturally safe and inclusive space for students to connect and be supported
For more information, visit Ngunnawal Centre.
Office of Indigenous Leadership (OILS)
Office of Indigenous Leadership (OILS)
The Office of Indigenous Leadership (OILS) assists the university in building strong networks and positive community interactions with Indigenous Australians.
For more information, visit the Office of Indigenous Leadership (OILS).
Indigenous Leadership Strategy 2024 - 2026
Indigenous Leadership Strategy 2024 - 2026
UC has charted a new path towards understanding, holding and sharing Indigenous knowledge via the new Indigenous Leadership Strategy 2024 – 2026.
Learn about our study areas
From bachelor's to master's degrees, graduate certificates, diplomas and more, you’ll find your fit here at the University of Canberra. Explore UC’s 2025 course guide to explore the many practical and flexible study options.
During high school, I was always told university was scary, but after completing my first semester, it wasn’t scary at all. The support you receive is amazing, and I’ve made friends I can call family now.
Damon Laws, proud Gamilaroi man
Bachelor of Medical Science
During high school, I was always told university was scary, but after completing my first semester, it wasn’t scary at all. The support you receive is amazing, and I’ve made friends I can call family now.
Damon Laws, proud Gamilaroi man
Bachelor of Medical Science
I chose UC because I was inspired by the Indigenous Chancellor, Professor Tom Calma, at the time. My experience as a student transferring from another university and student life at UC was positive. They were always very accommodating to me and my family.
Kirsten Tapine, proud Gamilaroi woman
Associate Director, Office of Indigenous Leadership
I chose UC because I was inspired by the Indigenous Chancellor, Professor Tom Calma, at the time. My experience as a student transferring from another university and student life at UC was positive. They were always very accommodating to me and my family.
Kirsten Tapine, proud Gamilaroi woman
Associate Director, Office of Indigenous Leadership
Working full-time in the community pharmacy and watching the interactions, I just knew I wanted to do something to help. UC had the better opportunity for me to study. People accept you, and the staff want you to succeed by offering the support you need to achieve it.
Summah Holden, proud Dhungutti woman
Bachelor of Pharmacy
Working full-time in the community pharmacy and watching the interactions, I just knew I wanted to do something to help. UC had the better opportunity for me to study. People accept you, and the staff want you to succeed by offering the support you need to achieve it.
Summah Holden, proud Dhungutti woman
Bachelor of Pharmacy
UC offers various admissions and pathway programs to make education accessible. Whether you're a recent high school graduate, transferring from another institution, or starting your study journey, there are many ways to enter UC.
The application process to UC varies depending on your student type and course. You can find all the requirements, criteria, and processes through the UC application portal.
UC offers a variety of affordable on-campus accommodation options. There's something for everyone from UC Lodge to Weeden Lodge, Cooper Lodge, and Campus West.
UC offers financial assistance and scholarships specifically for Indigenous Australian students. This includes support from ABSTUDY for living expenses, relocation, and study costs.
As an On Campus student at UC, you'll be at the heart of everything the UC campus and Canberra offers, which include:
- Life and Living at UC: Explore your interests beyond lectures and tutorials with clubs, societies, and sporting teams.
- UC Events: Enjoy sporting events, live performances, information seminars, trivia nights, and more.
- Discover Canberra: Feel at home in one of the most liveable cities. Explore national parks, reserves, culture, nightlife, major events, and more.
UC offers various career support services, including the Career Trackers Indigenous Internship Program, paid work opportunities, and career advice to help you connect with potential employers and prepare for your future career.
Why choose UC
We know the university experience is more than what you learn in the classroom. It’s about finding the right balance between exploring your interests, connecting with the community, and having the freedom to share knowledge and culture, which is why the UC experience is unlike any other.
The proof? UC provides Australian Indigenous students with support in and out of the classroom, from access to:
- Support and connect with your UC community through the Ngunnawal Centre and Office of Indigenous Leadership
- Programs that build cultural connection
- Guaranteed accommodation for first-year students
- Sign up for many sporting opportunities, including Indigenous UNI Nationals and more.
Whether you are thinking about studying, want to progress your career, or are looking for a course that helps you share your knowledge with your community, you’ll find your fit at UC.
Top 5 in the world for reducing inequalities
THE Impact Rankings, 2023
#1 in Canberra for student support
Good Universities Guide, 2024
#5 young university in Australia
THE YUR, 2023
Top 5 in the world for reducing inequalities
THE Impact Rankings, 2023
#1 in Canberra for student support
Good Universities Guide, 2024
#5 young university in Australia
THE YUR, 2023
Don’t miss a key date
Now
Semester 2 applications open
21 July 2024
On-time applications close
29 July 2024
Semester 2 starts
If you have questions, need support, or want to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students or staff, please contact the Ngunnawal Centre.
Ground Floor, UC Lodge, Telita Street, Bruce Campus
(02) 62012998
Students: Ngunnawal@canberra.edu.au
Staff and external contacts: Ngunnawaladmin@canberra.edu.au