The Complete Guide To Monash University

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

Monash University, founded in 1958, is the second oldest university in Victoria, Australia. It pays tribute to the renowned World War I general, Sir John Monash. Since its early days, the university has been a trailblazer in innovation. Back in 1961, it laid the groundwork for its first faculty, Engineering, swiftly followed by other faculties like Arts, Medicine, and Science.

Fast forward to today, Monash has flourished, fostering groundbreaking research and fostering thought leadership. Highlights include the launch of the Monash Research Park in 1991, now known as the Monash Technology Precinct, becoming a hotbed for innovation and collaboration between researchers and industry leaders. Furthermore, in a bold move to expand its global footprint, Monash established its Malaysia campus in 1998 and expanded to Indonesia, Italy, and India.

Total student population	86,000
% of international students	38%
Teaching faculty-to-student ratio	1:43
Percentage of teaching faculty with PhD	87% (as of 2021)
Graduate employability ranking	#55 in QS Graduate Employability Rankings (2022)

1.2 Monash University Rankings 2025

According to the QS World University Rankings, Monash University stands tall among the top universities, securing an impressive #37 position globally in the latest QS Best Universities rankings. 

Monash University’s dedication to excellence shines through its outstanding performance in the QS World University Rankings by Subject, including the Pharmacy and Pharmacology field, ranking in the Top 10 globally.

QS Subject Category	Ranking For 2025
Pharmacy and Pharmacology	#4
Engineering – Mineral and Mining	#15
Nursing	#24
Material Sciences	#29
Education and Training	#30
Anatomy and Physiology	#32
Philosophy	#33
Life Sciences and Medicine	#34
Marketing	#36
Law and Legal Studies	#39
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence	#40
Accounting and Finance	#41
Economics and Econometrics	#42
Engineering – Civil and Structural	#42
Medicine	#47
Engineering – Chemical	#49
Library and Information Management	#50

2. Student Life & Living Cost

2.1 Monash University Campuses

Monash University has a network of vibrant campuses, each with its unique environment and opportunities. From the bustling, innovative Clayton campus, known as the heart of research, the specialist campus located at Parkville, to the brand new 750 Collins Street Campus, there’s a place for every student to thrive and explore their potential. These campuses provide excellent academic facilities and a thriving community life, making each day an exciting adventure in learning and personal growth.

Clayton Campus

Key Highlights

• Monash University’s original campus, and the largest.
• The campus spans over 100 hectares and is a city in the eastern suburbs, complete with its postcode!
• More than 24,000 students are based on this campus, and it also represents 8 faculties: Arts, Business & Economics, Education, Engineering, IT, Law, Medicine, and Science.

How to Get There
🗺️An hour away from the Melbourne CBD

• The campus can be reached via the Pakenham/Cranbourne line trains, with the nearest station to the campus being the Huntingdale station.
• There are also several bus lines that stop directly at the campus.
• The university provides an inter-campus shuttle bus.

Caulfield Campus

Key Highlights

• Monash University’s 2nd largest campus.
• Houses the Arts, Design, Business, and Medicine faculties.
• Key facilities that are within the campus include open study spaces and group work rooms catered to the Business School, creative spaces for Art students, and the university’s media lab.

How to Get There
🗺️A 20-minute train ride from the Melbourne CBD

• The Caulfield train station is located right next to the campus.
• Some trams and buses directly stop at the campus.
• The university provides an inter-campus shuttle bus.

Peninsula Campus

Key Highlights

• The campus specialises in nursing and allied health, business, and education courses.
• The Peninsula campus has also transformed into an industry-leading hub for education and research, focusing on Allied Health.
• Over the years, it has built strong partnerships with the local health precinct and connections with the wider Frankston community.

How to Get There
🗺️Within walking distance from the Frankston City Centre

• The Peninsula Campus can be accessed via the Frankston Line and Stony Point Line trains.
• There are multiple buses that stop within walking distance of the campus.
• The university provides an inter-campus shuttle bus.

Parkville Campus

Key Highlights

• Monash University’s specialist campus houses the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
• Apart from catering to its courses, it is also home to the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
• Located in the heart of Australia’s top health and biomedical precinct.

How to Get There
🗺️A 15-minute drive or train ride from Melbourne CBD

• The campus can be reached via the Upfield train line, which has a station located a 10-minute walk away.
• There are also bus and tram lines that stop close to the campus.
• The university provides an inter-campus shuttle bus.

750 Collins Street Campus (Monash College)

Key Highlights

• This is the main Monash College campus, where all of the institute’s foundation and pathway courses are offered.
• Also known as the “Vertical Campus”, the building is 10 storeys tall and has more than 130 flexible learning spaces.

How to Get There
🗺️Located within Dockland’s city centre

• The nearest train station, the Southern Cross Station is a short walk away from the campus.
• The campus can also be reached via bus and tram.

2.2 Learning Resources

At Monash University, the wealth of learning resources is designed to catapult students into the forefront of innovation and research. With cutting-edge libraries stocked with millions of resources, state-of-the-art laboratories, and modern learning and teaching spaces,  students are empowered to explore uncharted territories of knowledge, pushing boundaries and unveiling new horizons in their academic and professional journeys.

2.3 Recreational Facilities

The university also has recreational facilities that are hives of activity, designed to energize and rejuvenate the spirit of its student body. From state-of-the-art gyms and sports centers to tranquil green spaces perfect for a mindful pause, these facilities offer every student a chance to find balance, pursue passions, and connect with a vibrant community.

2.4 Student Activities

Dive into the electric hub of student life at Monash University through the Monash Student Association (MSA)! With over 100 clubs and societies, there’s a vibrant community waiting to welcome you, no matter where your passions lie. Whether you’re into robotics or rock climbing, anime, or a-cappella, the MSA is your ticket to an enriching university experience brimming with memories and friendship.

2.5 Student Services

At Monash University, student support is not just a service; it’s a cornerstone of the educational journey! With enthusiasm beaming from every corner, the university showcases a suite of student services that cater to every aspect of university life, ensuring your experience in the university remains a comfortable, enhancing, and memorable one.

• Career Services
• Health and Wellbeing Services
• Academic Support
• Accommodations and Housing Services
• Legal Services
• International Student Support
• Disability Services
• Chaplaincy and Religious Services
• Peer Mentoring (Available for First Years)

2.6 Monash University Accommodation and Cost

With the Clayton and Caulfield campuses situated within 10km of each other, they share the same on-campus option (or students from Caulfield can stay at the accommodations located at the Clayton campus!). The Peninsula campus too has its own set of on-campus accommodation options, and the Parkville and 750 Collins Street are located strategically close to the Melbourne CBD and nearby suburbs that provide private rental options for students studying there. 

Clayton and Caulfield Campuses

On-campus	Off-campus
Clayton Residential Village (AUD 315 – 354.90/week)	Nearby towns (Clayton) – Chadstone, Clarinda, Glen Waverly, Huntingdale, Mulgrave, Notting Hill, Oakleigh, Springvale,  Nearby towns (Caulfield) – Ahsburton, Carnegie, Glen Huntly, Hughesdale, Malvern East, Murrumbeena
Clayton Urban Community (AUD 380.10/week)

Peninsula Campus

On-campus	Off-campus
Peninsula Residential Village (AUD 325.15/week)	Nearby towns – Surrey Hills, Darlinghurst, Kensington, Randwick, Zetland, Kingsford, Rosebery
Peninsula Studio Apartments (AUD 380.10/week)

Parkville and 750 Collin’s Street Campus

On-campus	Off-campus
	Nearby towns – Brunswick, Carlton, Collingwood, Docklands, Melbourne, Fitzroy, Kensington,

Cost of Living in Victoria

On average, you can expect to spend around AUD 385 to AUD 976 per week, excluding accommodation. This estimate will cover your groceries, meal plans, social activities, and plenty of that glorious Melbourne coffee. Take note, however, that the cost of living varies very heavily on your lifestyle!

3. Courses, Fees & Scholarships

3.1 Courses You Can Study At Monash University

Art, Design, and Architecture	Architectural Design, Design, Fine Art
Arts	International Relations. Music, Media Communication, Liberal Arts, Global Studies
Business	Accounting, Actuarial Science, Economics, Finance, Marketing
Education	Early Childhood & Primary Education, Primary & Secondary Education, Physical Education, Special Education
Engineering	Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Computer Systems Engineering, Mechanical Enginnering, Software Engineering
Information Technology	Data Science, Advanced Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Games Development, Software Development
Law	Law (LLB)
Medicine, Nursing & Health Science	Health Sciences, Nursing, Biomedical Science, Psychology, Public Health
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences	Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences
Science	Science, Applied Data Science

3.2 Course Fees At Monash University

We have also saved you the hassle and compiled the full list of Monash’s detailed course fees into one article below. Check it out and share it!

Coming Soon!

3.3 Monash University Scholarships

These are some of the scholarships offered by Monash University to international students. Check out the full list here. (Coming Soon)

K.C. Kuok Scholarship	100% tuition fee waiver Annual allowance of AUD14,000 On-campus accommodation Student visa cost waiver AUD 3,000 one-off establishment payment (1st year only) Return flight (1st year only)
Monash University International Merit Scholarship	Receive AUD 10,000 per year until completion of degree
Sir John Monash Scholarships for Excellence	Receive AUD 10,000 per year for a maximum of 4 years

3.4 Popular Courses at Monash University

Engineering Courses

The Engineering arm at Monash University is a top-rated institution recognized by Times Higher Education. The faculty also ranks in the global Top 50 of the QS Best Subjects, renowned for innovation and research. Students access modern facilities like the Woodside Building for Technology and Design, featuring interactive learning spaces, a hybrid VR environment, and advanced electron microscopes. Monash also hosts the Monash Makerspace, a creative hub equipped with tools and spaces to make ideas come to life.

Monash also propels you towards engineering success, providing initiatives like the Monash Engineering Career Ready Series for enhancing students’ employability skills. It’s not just a programme; it’s a suite of professional opportunities tailored to make students the engineering industries seek.

For Malaysian students, an engineering degree from Monash means opportunity – your key to career success. You can enter the Malaysian engineering sector right after graduation with accreditation from Engineers Australia and the Washington Accord (the Malaysian Board of Engineers is part of its signatories!).

Pharmacy Courses

Ranked #2 globally right after Harvard University in the QS World University Rankings by Subject, Monash University offers an unparalleled pharmacy education. There is a reason why Monash’s Pharmaceutical faculty carries so much prestige, and that is due to their success in research impact. Most recently, a team from the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences has made a breakthrough on a new COVID-19 vaccine to combat the recent Omicron strain. It is still in the early stages, but it shows the faculty’s huge contributions to current society.

What sets Monash’s Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences apart is their unconventional 5-year pathway that lets students graduate with not just one, but two degrees: a Bachelor’s (Honours) and a Master’s!

The learning experience at Monash is also enhanced by cutting-edge equipment for chemical synthesis, characterisation, biological evaluation, and medical imaging. Students are in the heart of the biomedical precinct, the Parkville Strip, ensuring immersive industry exposure. Plus, with options for work placements in various settings, from community pharmacies to hospitals, students can be guaranteed a holistic preparation for their future careers.

Malaysian graduates can take comfort in knowing that they can practice in their home country, as Monash University’s degree is acknowledged and respected by the Malaysian Pharmacy Board!

Nursing

Ranked 14th worldwide by QS World University Rankings by Subject and standing proud as the top choice in Victoria, Monash University’s Nursing programme is a beacon of excellence in healthcare education. Students plunge into Clinical Learning Environments (CLEs) – innovative spaces meticulously designed to mimic real-life healthcare settings. This approach teaches practical skills for quality patient care in various healthcare settings.

What truly sets Monash apart is its powerful alliance with top-tier medical researchers and leading teaching hospitals. This collaboration opens doors to unparalleled educational and practical experiences, preparing students for the front lines of healthcare with confidence and competence. Plus, the opportunity for clinical exposure extends across the diverse landscapes of Victoria, offering a range of experiences to shape a well-rounded healthcare professional.

Students also have a head start in preparing to thrive in a collaborative environment alongside peers from other health science disciplines such as Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Paramedic Practice. Monash University is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about fostering a community of future healthcare leaders ready to make a difference.

Business Subjects

Dive into Monash Business School’s vibrant ecosystem of commerce and economics, a hub of global business thought and innovation. Positioned as the university’s crown jewel, it shines on the international stage, renowned for transformative research and top-tier education. Immerse in an elite network where courses not only meet but set the standard, consistently ranking in the Top 5 globally.

The experiential learning environment at Monash Business School is truly exceptional. Students and lecturers can host dynamic presentations and conferences at The Pavilion, while the Monash Business Behavioural Laboratory (MBBL) sheds light on judgment and decision-making. Students can also delve into business innovation and studying in a corporate setting with access to The Sky Room, The Business Centre at 30 Collins Street, and the revolutionary STARLab, where finance offers a world of opportunities.

What truly makes Monash Business School a standout is its revered ‘Triple Crown Accreditation’ – a mark of excellence shared with only 97 business schools around the world. The faculty is also the only one in Victoria to achieve this. 

The accreditation involves the following bodies:

• Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB)
• EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS)
• Association of MBAs (AMBA)

Architectural Design

While Monash’s Architecture and Design may not capture the highest ranks in the QS Best Subjects ranking, the program carries its weight with a unique learning approach that distinguishes it in the field. Students will be spending half their degree immersed in a studio setting, mirroring the collaborative and dynamic atmosphere of real architectural and design practices.

The educational journey at Monash is marked by hands-on experiences with real projects that aim to tackle the complex issues encountered in architectural practice, covering a comprehensive spectrum of social and spatial challenges. With this structure, students are not just learners; they’re emerging designers encouraged to select from a diverse array of studio projects.

These options, featuring different subjects, practitioners, and approaches, empower students to tailor their education according to their passions and career aspirations. Furthermore, the Monash Maker Space provides students access to an extensive variety of materials, state-of-the-art digital fabrication labs, and the latest architectural software tools to innovate through drawing and digital modeling.

Malaysian graduates can rejoice as the course in the university is recognized and accredited by Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia, which means a fast-track path to being a Graduate Architect with the board, allowing them to practice locally. 

3.5 Industry Partners

At Monash University, students of all disciplines will have the opportunity to work with various partners who collaborate with the university, working on industrial projects that tackle a range of issues and challenges:  

4. Entry Requirements & Intake Dates

4.1 Monash University Entry Requirements 2025

Looking to apply to Monash University? Make sure you’ve hit the minimum entry requirements!

Minimum entry requirements for Foundation:

• SPM:  4C
• IGCSE: 4C

Minimum entry requirements for Diploma:

• SPM: 4C
• STPM: Total average of 6 from all 3 subjects
• IGCSE: 4C
• UEC: Overall average score of 8.0 from best 5 subjects

Minimum entry requirements for Degree:

• UEC: 5 B6
• STPM: BCC of best 3 subjects
• A-Level: CDD
• SACE / WACE : ATAR 70
• IB: 25 points
• Foundation: Completion of Foundation
• Diploma: Completion of Diploma

Minimum language proficiency requirements (IELTS):

• Foundation: 5.0 Overall
• Diploma: 5.5 Overall
• Undergraduate: 6.5 Overall
• Postgraduate: 6.5 Overall

Some courses may require you to earn higher entry requirements and additional qualifications.

4.2 Monash University Intake Periods For 2025

• Foundation: January, February, July, August
• Diploma: February, June, October
• Degree: February, July
• Postgraduate: March, July

Please note that the intake periods may vary depending on the courses. For specific intake periods and dates, click here (Coming Soon!).

4.3 Admission Process For Studying In Australia

It’s never too early to start knowing more about the ins and outs of applying to study abroad! Here are a few helpful articles that you can also go through to make your application process to Australia a lot easier.

• Your Essential Study In Australia Guide For Malaysian Students
• Education Consultants And The 8 Steps To Study Abroad
• Top 10 Benefits Of Engaging A Higher Education Consultant

5. Student Testimonials & Alumni

Get inspired by the personal experiences of Monash University alumni and current students. Hear from those who have walked the halls of the university and learn about the amazing impact it has had on their academic and professional journeys.

William Halim, Computer Science Student

Tavishi Saxena, Engineering Student

Cam Tieu Quan, Alumni, Biomedical Science

6. Conclusion

Here’s a list of reasons why you should make Monash University your next destination:

• World-renowned reputation for research innovation
• Located in the vibrant city of Melbourne
• Easily accessible state-of-the-art facilities
• Global industry partners, opening doors to endless opportunities all around the world

Convinced? Then it’s time for you to take the first step! Our study abroad consultants are a click away from all the information to make your mark in one of Australia’s best universities.

SEE OTHER UNI GUIDES

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