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Flinders University

Address: Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
Phone: +61 8 8201 3911
Email: info@flinders.edu.au
Website: www.flinders.edu.au


About Flinders University

Globally focused and locally engaged, Flinders University is committed to making a difference through innovative research, excellence in teaching and learning, and exceptional student experience.

Flinders University is headquartered in South Australia with a footprint that extends through regional and remote Australia.

Ranked in the top 2% of universities in the world[1], it is number one in South Australia for teaching quality, student support, student/teacher ratio and undergraduate starting salary. [2]

In an era of disruptive change and remarkable technological innovation, Flinders University is growing its international reputation as a world leader in research, an innovator in contemporary education and a source of enterprising graduates equipped to change the world.

Unique innovation and entrepreneurship offerings are supported by the Flinders New Venture Institute, a global entrepreneurship leader[3] located at the University’s high-tech Tonsley campus, while its Victoria Square campus provides an alternative study space in the heart of the city. An award winning, state-of-the-art student hub at the main Bedford Park campus fosters interactive learning in a digitally enabled environment.  

With a focus on rural and remote area education through Flinders’ Northern Territory Medical Program, students are supported to complete a Flinders Doctor of Medicine in Darwin through facilities in Alice Springs, Katherine and Nhulunbuy. Rural medical, nursing, and allied health courses delivered at Renmark and other regional centres are identical in structure to those in Adelaide.

Flinders University’s research strengths include biomedical and clinical sciences, culture, policy and society, health and human behaviour, molecular science and technology, defence, engineering, water and environment.  Its research contributions are rich and growing, with some 90 per cent ranked at or above world class by Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)[4]. 

In 2020 Flinders Train Station will open, directly connecting the University’s main campus to its Tonsley innovation precinct. The adjacent Flinders Village development has also commenced, which will add further research facilities and additional student accommodation amid cafés, shops and other community amenities in a thriving urban centre.

Internationally, Flinders jointly provides courses with leading universities in China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia – where its Jembatan program is fostering cultural engagement.

Undergraduate and postgraduate courses are offered across Flinders’ six colleges and online for some 26,000 students. The University’s 5,400 international students come from more than 90 countries and its main campus features on-site accommodation for 560 students and an international pathways centre.

Why Flinders University

Flinders University, located in South Australia, is known for several key aspects:

  1. Strong Research Reputation: The university is recognized for its research output, particularly in health, education, and engineering. It consistently ranks well in various research assessments, contributing significantly to fields like medical science, psychology, and social work.

  2. Innovative Teaching: Flinders University is praised for its innovative teaching methods, including its focus on practical, hands-on learning and its strong emphasis on student engagement.

  3. Health Programs: The university is particularly famous for its health-related programs, including nursing and medical education. The Flinders Medical Centre, associated with the university, provides students with excellent clinical experience.

  4. Interdisciplinary Approach: Flinders promotes interdisciplinary studies, encouraging collaboration across various fields, which enhances the learning experience and prepares students for diverse careers.

  5. Community Engagement: The university has strong ties to the community, focusing on research and projects that address local needs and issues, especially in areas like Indigenous health and social justice.

  6. Notable Alumni and Faculty: Flinders University boasts a number of notable alumni and faculty who have made significant contributions to various fields, further enhancing its reputation.

Flinders University has specific language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. Here are the key points regarding language proficiency:

  1. English Language Proficiency Tests: International students typically need to provide evidence of English proficiency through one of the following standardized tests:

    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.0, with no individual band lower than 5.5.
    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 79 (internet-based), with no individual score lower than 13 in reading, 12 in listening, 18 in speaking, and 21 in writing.
    • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): A minimum score of 169, with no individual skill lower than 162.
    • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): A minimum score of 50, with no communicative skill score lower than 42.
  2. Alternative Qualifications: In some cases, students may meet the English language requirements through other qualifications, such as:

    • Completion of a recognized secondary or tertiary education in English.
    • English language courses from recognized institutions.
  3. English Language Support: Flinders University offers support services for students who may need to improve their English proficiency, including language workshops and resources.

  4. Pathway Programs: If students do not meet the English language requirements, they may have the option to enroll in pathway programs to improve their language skills before starting their degree.

Flinders University offers a wide range of specialized courses across various fields. Here are some of the key areas of specialization:

  1. Health and Medical Sciences:

    • Medicine: The Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine programs are highly regarded.
    • Nursing: Offers comprehensive nursing programs with a strong practical component.
    • Allied Health: Courses in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology.
  2. Engineering and Information Technology:

    • Specializations in renewable energy, robotics, and telecommunications engineering.
    • IT courses focus on cybersecurity, software development, and data science.
  3. Education:

    • Programs in early childhood, primary, and secondary education with a strong focus on practical teaching experience.
  4. Psychology and Social Work:

    • Offers courses in clinical psychology, community psychology, and social work, emphasizing practical placements.
  5. Business and Commerce:

    • Specializations in marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, along with practical industry experience.
  6. Arts and Humanities:

    • Programs in creative writing, visual arts, and performing arts, along with interdisciplinary studies.
  7. Environmental Science and Sustainability:

    • Focus on conservation, environmental management, and sustainable development.
  8. Law:

    • Offers a Bachelor of Laws with opportunities for practical experience through clinical placements.

Flinders University has a number of distinguished professors recognized for their contributions to research and academia across various fields. Here are some notable professors associated with the university:

  1. Professor Peter W. McKinnon:

    • An expert in the field of education, particularly in assessment and evaluation. He has published extensively and is known for his work in improving educational practices.
  2. Professor Clare Wright:

    • A historian and author known for her research on Australian history, gender studies, and social movements. She is also recognized for her engaging public speaking and outreach efforts.
  3. Professor John D. D. C. Liu:

    • A prominent figure in the field of biomedical science and engineering, known for his research on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
  4. Professor Paul E. McGowan:

    • An expert in environmental science, focusing on sustainability and climate change. His research includes ecological restoration and biodiversity.
  5. Professor Helen O’Neill:

    • A leading researcher in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, known for her work in reproductive health and maternal-fetal medicine.
  6. Professor David E. J. M. T. H. Wood:

    • A professor in the field of linguistics, recognized for his research in language and communication, particularly in educational settings.