The Deakin story

We've been a progressive university from day one. Year after year, advancements in technology, groundbreaking research outcomes and course delivery methods have put Deakin at the forefront of higher education. Our achievements as a university span five decades, starting in 1974 when we became the first university in Australia to specialise in distance education.

Learn more about our history

Deakin University and the Alfred Deakin legacy – a Tanderrum

‘Tanderrum’ is a Kulin Nation term meaning ‘safe passage’. This document addresses the legacy of Alfred Deakin and sets out a position that accounts for the past and garners the future. Through this Tanderrum, the University commits to truth-telling and elevating the understanding and acknowledgement of the full history of our country.

Download the Tanderrum (PDF, 2.2MB)

Celebrating 50 years

Celebrating 50 years

From modest beginnings in a Geelong paddock to six state-of-the-art campuses – we’ve always set out to make a difference. Join us on campus throughout 2025 for an exciting lineup of celebratory events to help commemorate our 50 year anniversary.

Let's work together

Let's work together

Help us address global challenges and drive meaningful change. Collaboration with partners across a wide range of industries and sectors is key to our impact in education and research.

Our university rankings

As an internationally recognised university for 50+ years, we’ve supported over 300,000 students on their journeys to great things. Our passion and commitment to teaching, research and student success is recognised by local and international ranking bodies, as well as our students, placing us in the top 200 universities globally.

Discover Deakin's position in the world

Deakin has provided me with a sense of self purpose and confidence. They equip their students with the knowledge and skills to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, today, all while working to improve the future.

Clare Terry

Bachelor of Commerce student

Let's keep Earth wonderful

At Deakin, we’re committed to building a sustainable, wonderful world through innovative research.

Education excellence

Led by industry-informed, innovative curriculum, every Deakin course is rigorously and continuously evaluated to ensure both students and teachers reap the best possible educational experience.

Research excellence

Our world-class researchers collaborate to advance our collective knowledge and solve some of the world’s greatest social, economic and environmental challenges.

Commitment to Indigenous Australians

Deakin is committed to Reconciliation and Treaty, advancing the educational aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and moving Indigenous Knowledges into the mainstream of Australian life. All our endeavours aim to reflect Australia’s full history and seek to build an inclusive future.

Read about Indigenous Knowledges and education at Deakin

Generative Artificial Intelligence

The use, efficacy and quality of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) is changing at pace – it's a form of technology with wide-ranging opportunities and implications. Deakin’s genAI Steering Group aims to keep the University at the forefront of genAI tools, ensuring they're used ethically and responsibly.

Discover the work of Deakin's genAI Steering Group

Contact us

Our expert student advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, the application process, pathways to your ultimate degree and more.

Domestic students  
1800 693 888
Enquire online

International students
+61 3 9918 9188
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