As your Year 12 studies quickly reach an end, you might be weighing up which university is the best fit for you. In Melbourne, the two giants in higher education are Monash University and the University of Melbourne (Unimelb). Both institutions boast high global rankings and offer excellent opportunities for both education and student life, but they have their differences. Spoiler alert: there’s no clear winner—it’s all about what suits you best.
Let’s dive into it!
Rankings
According to the QS World University Rankings, both are ranked among the top 100 universities globally:
- University of Melbourne: 13th
- Monash University: 37th
However, rankings aren’t everything. While they indicate academic prestige, they don’t capture the full university experience. Be sure to consider other factors—some of which we’ll explore below!
Location
Unimelb: The University of Melbourne’s main campus is nestled in Parkville, right on the doorstep of the CBD. It's well-connected to public transport, with tram stops along Swanston Street and Royal Parade, and there’s even a new train station (Parkville) set to open in 2025. While the location is prime, the city buzz can get hectic at times—so be prepared to navigate crowds and busy streets.
Monash: Monash’s main campus is located in Clayton, around a 30-minute drive from the city (traffic permitting). While it’s a bit further out than Unimelb, the campus has a quieter, suburban feel. Public transport options include nearby bus services and Clayton Station, which connects to the city. While it’s not as central as Melbourne Uni, the Clayton campus has its own perks like plenty of green space and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Academics
Unimelb: Since 2008, the University of Melbourne has adopted the Melbourne Model, meaning most undergraduate students complete a 3-year bachelor’s degree, followed by a specialised master's degree (2+ years). For example, if you want to become a teacher, you’d first complete any bachelor’s degree and then follow it up with a Master of Teaching. The university offers seven main bachelor's degrees - Arts, Biomedicine, Commerce, Design, Fine Arts, Music, and Science, with over 100 areas of study to major in.
The Melbourne Model provides flexibility, especially if you’re unsure about your career path. You can also take breadth subjects in disciplines outside your major, which gives you a chance to explore new interests.
Monash: Monash, on the other hand, takes a more traditional approach to degrees, offering more specialised undergraduate programs. Using the teaching example, you’d complete a Bachelor of Education over four years, without needing to do a master's.
They also offer double degrees, which allow you to study two fields at once—great for those who want to diversify their skills. Monash offers a wide range of degrees across multiple disciplines, with strong programs in STEM, business, and law.
Both universities are highly regarded, so your choice will depend on whether you prefer the flexibility of the Melbourne Model or a more direct path with Monash's specialised degrees.
Social Life
Unimelb: When it comes to the social scene, Unimelb has a thriving student community. With over 200 student clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone—from sport, drama, and music, to niche interest groups. The university hosts an active calendar of events, and O-Week (Orientation Week) is known for its vibrant energy. Additionally, its proximity to the CBD means you have easy access to Melbourne’s bustling nightlife, cafés, and cultural attractions. You’ll never be bored here!
Monash: Monash, despite being further from the city, doesn’t lack when it comes to social activities. The Clayton campus is a hub of student life, with over 100 clubs and societies. Monash is also known for hosting large-scale events, such as Winter Carnival, which bring students together for fun and relaxation. While it may not be located in the heart of the city, Monash’s tight-knit community and green campus make up for it, creating a lively social experience.
Accommodation
Unimelb: For accommodation, Unimelb offers a variety of options both on and off-campus. There are apartment-style residences like Lisa Bellear House and Little Hall, as well as ten residential colleges located at the northern end of the Parkville campus. Additionally, nearby private providers such as UniLodge and Scape offer more independent living options for students who want to stay close to the city.
Monash: Monash Clayton provides on-campus accommodation in several residential halls and apartments, with options like Jackomos Hall and Holman Hall, and Mannix as a residential college. Living on-campus at Monash is also convenient due to the campus’s size—it cuts down on travel time and keeps you close to classes and social activities.
Culture and Societies
Unimelb: Unimelb is known for its diverse and inclusive community, with a wide range of clubs that cater to various academic, cultural, and social interests. The University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU) plays a significant role in organising events, and the campus often has a buzzing atmosphere. Students can also enjoy Melbourne’s wider cultural scene with museums, theatres, and galleries nearby.
Monash: Monash prides itself on its collaborative and innovative culture. There’s a strong emphasis on student entrepreneurship and sustainability, with programs like the Monash Generator encouraging start-ups. Monash’s international outlook is also a big draw, as it has a presence in several countries, offering students opportunities for global exchange. While it may not have the immediate city buzz like Unimelb, Monash’s community spirit on campus is just as strong, if not more close-knit.
At the end of the day, there’s no clear “winner” between Monash and Melbourne Uni. Each university has its strengths, and the right choice depends on what you value most in your education and student life. Whether it’s location, course structure, or social scene, there’s something for everyone at both institutions. So take your time, visit the campuses, and pick the one that feels right for you!
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Written by Charlie Goldsworthy, VCE & High School Mathematics tutor at KIS Academics. Charlie is currently studying a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics & Statistics at the University of Melbourne. You can read Charlie’s profile and reviews here and request him as a tutor. 🚀
