The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne is a public research university located in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Founded in 1853, it is Australia's second oldest university and the oldest in Victoria. Its main campus is located in Parkville, an inner suburb north of the Melbourne central business district, with several other campuses located across Victoria.

History

The University of Melbourne was established by Hugh Childers, the Auditor-General and Finance Minister, in a Act of Parliament of Victoria on 22 January 1853, making it the oldest university in Victoria and the second oldest in Australia. The university started with only four professors and sixteen students. Initially, the university offered degrees in arts, medicine, laws, and music, and was one of the first universities in the world to admit students solely on academic merit, and not on religious or social standing.

Campus

The main campus of the University of Melbourne is located in Parkville, with several other campuses spread out across Victoria, including in Southbank, Burnley, Creswick, Dookie, Shepparton, and Werribee. The Parkville campus is known for its historic sandstone buildings, contemporary architecture, and expansive green spaces.

Academic Profile

The University of Melbourne is a comprehensive research-intensive university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It is divided into ten faculties: Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Business and Economics, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, and Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences.

Research

The University of Melbourne is renowned for its research output and has numerous research institutes and centres, including the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, and the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research. It is a member of several research collaborations, including the Group of Eight and the Universitas 21 network.

Student Life

Student life at the University of Melbourne is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events. The university is also home to several student-run organizations, including the University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU) and the Graduate Student Association (GSA), which provide support and advocacy for students.

Notable Alumni

The University of Melbourne has produced many notable alumni, including four Australian Prime Ministers, five governors-general, and multiple Nobel laureates. Its alumni have made significant contributions in various fields, including law, politics, medicine, science, and the arts.

Affiliations

The University of Melbourne is affiliated with numerous academic and professional organizations, including the Group of Eight, Universitas 21, and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities. These affiliations facilitate international collaboration and research partnerships.