【2026 Guide to Studying in Australia】A Comprehensive Analysis of Griffith University: From Healthcare and Nursing to the Top Art School QCAD

When considering studying abroad, Griffith University in Queensland, Australia, has become a favorite among many Hong Kong parents and students. This is thanks to its stellar academic reputation, innovative course offerings, and comprehensive support for international students. In this guide, we deconstruct this world-class institution across six key dimensions, including campus environment, popular subjects (specifically its renowned arts and creative industries), pathway programs, and internship arrangements.

International Status and Accolades: A Global Top 2% Powerhouse

In the 2026 global university rankings, Griffith University continues to demonstrate immense competitiveness:

  • World Rankings: According to the latest 2026 QS World University Rankings, Griffith University is ranked 268th globally [1]. It also maintains a steady position within the top 300 of the Times Higher Education (THE) 2026 World University Rankings, showcasing its robust teaching and research capabilities [2].
  • Global Leader in Impact: In the 2025 THE University Impact Rankings, Griffith University ranked 4th in the world, highlighting its extraordinary contribution to sustainable development and social responsibility [3].
  • Five-Star Educational Experience: The university has consistently received five-star ratings for "Teaching Quality," "Student Support," and "Graduate Employment" in the Australian Good Universities Guide [4].
Griffith University with students
Griffith University with students

Source: Griffith University

Campus Environment and Location: The Best of Queensland Living

Griffith University operates five main campuses across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, offering students two distinct lifestyle experiences:

  • Gold Coast Campus: The university's largest campus, located right next to Australia's world-famous beaches and holiday resorts. It features modern facilities for medicine, engineering, and business, offering excellent convenience and transport links.
  • South Bank Campus (The Heart of the Arts): Located in the cultural and arts precinct of downtown Brisbane, this is home to the Queensland College of Art and Design (QCAD) and the Queensland Conservatorium. Surrounded by art galleries, museums, and grand theaters, it is a creative paradise for art students.
  • Nathan Campus: As the university's founding campus, it is situated within native bushland. The tranquil and beautiful environment makes it an ideal place for studying environmental science, law, and business.

Popular Subjects: A Double Temple of Healthcare and the Arts

Griffith University leads the world in several fields. Below are the disciplines most frequently enquired about by Hong Kong students:

Elite Arts & Creative Industries

Griffith’s arts programs are prestigious both in Australia and globally:

  • Queensland College of Art and Design (QCAD): As one of Australia’s oldest art schools, its Animation program is ranked 9th in the world. Its Visual Arts and Design majors consistently rank within the top 250 globally in the QS Subject Rankings.
  • Griffith Film School (GFS): One of the largest film schools in Australia, GFS maintains close partnerships with international giants (such as Toon Boom), providing students with cutting-edge virtual production and post-production facilities.
  • Queensland Conservatorium: Ranked in the top 50 globally for Performing Arts, its alumni include several Grammy Award winners.

Medical, Nursing, and Health Sciences

  • Nursing: Griffith’s Nursing school is consistently ranked 1st in Australia and 3rd in the world (ShanghaiRanking 2025). Its teaching facilities are integrated with the Gold Coast University Hospital, offering abundant clinical internship opportunities.
  • Physiotherapy: The university offers a comprehensive "one-stop" program accredited by the Australian Physiotherapy Council, allowing graduates to apply for registration as professional physiotherapists.

Hospitality and Tourism Management

  • Ranked 6th Globally: Taking full advantage of its geographical location, the hospitality management program integrates deep industry links, allowing students to intern at world-renowned hotel groups during their studies.

Pathway Programs: A Bridge for HK DSE Students

For students whose HKDSE results do not meet the direct entry requirements for Year 1, Griffith College offers flexible pathway options:

  • Diploma Programs: Available in fields such as Design, Health Sciences, Business, and IT. Upon successful completion of a one-year Diploma, students can directly enter the second year of a Griffith University Bachelor’s degree. This "1+2" model ensures students graduate at the same time as direct-entry students, while the smaller class sizes at the College help international students adapt to the Australian system more easily.
  • Foundation Program: Suitable for Form 5 graduates or DSE students who need to strengthen their academic foundation before entering a degree or diploma.
Griffith University campus
Griffith University campus

Source: Griffith University

Internships and Career Support: A Head Start in the Professional World

Griffith University emphasizes "learning by doing" by integrating Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) into its curriculum:

  • Industry Partners: The university collaborates with over 5,000 industry partners. For example, Film School students have opportunities to work behind the scenes at international film festivals, while Nursing students complete over 800 hours of clinical practice in teaching hospitals.
  • Career Experience: The school regularly hosts Career Fairs and provides professional resume editing, mock interviews, and career counseling services to ensure students are top choices for employers.

International Student Support and Accommodation

Attentive Student Support

Griffith has a dedicated International Student Advisory team to assist with visas, insurance, and mental health. The famous "Griffith Mates" program features senior students who lead newcomers through orientation camps and language exchange sessions, helping Hong Kong students integrate quickly into Australian life.

Diverse Accommodation Options

  • On-Campus Residences: Feature 24-hour security and communal lounges within walking distance of classrooms—the safest and most convenient choice for first-time overseas students.
  • Off-Campus Student Apartments: High-quality, modern apartments with full amenities are located near the South Bank and Gold Coast campuses.
  • 2026 Scholarship Programs: Griffith offers various scholarships for outstanding international students, such as the Vice Chancellor's International Scholarship (50% tuition waiver) and the International Academic Merit Scholarship (20% tuition waiver), significantly easing the financial burden on parents.
Griffith University student experience officer
Griffith University student experience officer

Source: Griffith University

Summary: Why is Griffith University Your Best Choice?

In summary, Griffith University is not only a top-100 ranked institution with remarkable academic achievements but also a vibrant, innovative space for growth.

For Hong Kong students, it offers:

1. World-Class Professional Strength: Particularly in Nursing, Arts, and Design, making graduates highly competitive globally.

2. Flexible Pathways: Ensuring students from different academic backgrounds can achieve their dreams through bridge programs.

3. Unmatched Quality of Life: Studying in sun-drenched Queensland allows for a perfect balance between academic rigor and personal well-being.

The professional team at Synchro Overseas Education is always ready to provide students with tailored pathways for further education, ensuring that your child gains valuable learning experiences and development opportunities in choosing schools and planning their courses. For more information about further education, please call 2111 1480 or WhatsApp 5117 4380 to contact a consultant at Synchro Overseas Education. We look forward to helping your child embark on a fulfilling educational journey at Griffith University.

References: 

  1. QS World University Rankings - Griffith University
  2. Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 - Griffith University
  3. Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2025 - Griffith University
  4. Griffith University - Ratings and rankings

Synchro Education Editor

Provides parents and students with valuable insights into the evolving education landscape, focusing on future-ready learning, emerging trends, and interdisciplinary approaches. Covers local and global innovations in education to inspire students to think critically, adapt to change, and explore new possibilities in their academic journey.