Adelaide University - Century-old merger opens up bright future

A landmark moment in modern, progressive and inclusive higher education has been set as Adelaide University in South Australia launched this week.

The University of Adelaide is set to open its doors to students in January 2026. It is one of Australia’s first new major universities in three decades, refining education, research and innovation with global impact.

Building on the combined centuries of experience of the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, the new University of Adelaide delivers teaching and research excellence. The University of Adelaide was established to deliver nationally leading teaching, an exceptional student experience and future-oriented research at scale and focused on shaping the relevant changes our society needs.

Sharing with the press, the school representative said that Adelaide University will expand its participation, expand research partnerships and research results, and create significant resources to become a global educational powerhouse.

Vice-Chancellors of the University of Adelaide, Professor Peter Høj AC and Professor David Lloyd, said the University of Adelaide is a forward-looking university, aiming to connect with priority industries and produce graduates in fields that are in demand and will be highly sought after around the world.

“With this vision and mission, the University of Adelaide will produce graduates who are valuable to employers, equipped with the skills, experience and attributes that will excel in the workplace now and in the future. In addition, the University will drive a transformational journey as a global education university, building on the excellence of our existing universities to meet the needs of a changing world,” Professors Høj and Lloyd said.

Where people and culture blend to create an elite community

Putting people at the heart of success, Adelaide University develops the talents and abilities of each student to achieve the common goal of bringing about knowledge-based transformation, leading to the sustainable development of students and the university.

The University of Adelaide promises to have an alumni community of over 400,000 global citizens from 150 countries, offering over 300 degrees in fields of global demand. The University will be a driving force for cultural, social and economic vitality, and a magnet for the best and brightest to join the community.

The University of Adelaide’s commitment to a positive student experience also extends to its cultural and social life. In particular, the University of Adelaide has a wide range of student clubs and facilities, with a flexible social calendar that encourages active student participation.

"The University of Adelaide strives to make students feel welcome. Adelaide's diversity, strong sense of community and multicultural population make it the perfect home for international students," the university said.

In particular, the University of Adelaide is also home to the largest campus in South Australia, located in Adelaide, a city ranked in the top 11 most liveable cities in the world according to the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index in 2024. Adelaide is also a dynamic city, famous for its festivals, cultural life and sporting events. The city has a great combination of shopping, beaches, affordable student accommodation and is a friendly and multicultural city.

To find out more about Adelaide University, please visit adelaideuni.edu.au