Macquarie University

Get qualified with one of Australia’s most respected research universities

If you’re looking for a university that makes job-readiness a priority, then Macquarie University could be the choice for you. 

This Sydney-based university is renowned for its focus on innovation—and for encouraging strong ties between students and industry employers. 

You can enrol in select online Macquarie University courses through Open Universities Australia. Explore undergraduate, postgraduate and short courses that start in February, July or December. 

We’ll help you unlock flexible study options, skip entry requirements, and navigate the application process, stress-free. 

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Macquarie University ranking

How does Macquarie University score on academic excellence, student/staff ratios and graduate employability?

#9

Within Australia on QS World University Rankings 2024

#10

in Australia on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

Discover Macquarie University online degrees

Discover Macquarie University online subjects and short courses

Undergraduate MAQ-ENGX3051

Critical Approaches to Literature

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Undergraduate MAQ-ENGX3040

Following Poetry from Epic to Instagram

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Undergraduate MAQ-ENGX3035

Novel and Novella Writing

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Undergraduate MAQ-ENGX3031

Popular Fiction

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Meet a student

It was always Kimberley's dream to work in social policy. But with a motel to run, she couldn’t commit to a degree right away. Through us, she was able to enrol in a single Macquarie University subject—and ease into study life.

Read Kimberley's story

When was Macquarie University established?

Macquarie University (MQ) was established in 1964 by the NSW Government, who wanted to create a new and progressive kind of university. You could say Macquarie still maintains that reputation today.

What is Macquarie University known for?

Macquarie University is known as a pioneering research university. Both students and teaching staff have been involved in projects that have defined modern society, including the invention of Wi-Fi and the development of the Macquarie Dictionary. 

Macquarie University is especially highly ranked in arts and humanities, psychology, technology, science and business. The Macquarie Graduate School of Management is one of the oldest graduate business schools in Australia. 

Where is Macquarie University?

The main Macquarie campus can be found in North Ryde, a suburb of Sydney. It’s in an area that is considered Australia’s largest technology and innovation precinct.

Though this campus won’t be part of your day-to-day as an online Macquarie student, you can still access many of the facilities from home. You can join clubs and societies, write for the university magazine, and borrow from the library’s full collection of journals, books and databases. You can also visit and use on-campus facilities if you’re in Sydney.

How many students attend Macquarie University?

In 2022, 44,000 students enrolled at Macquarie University.

Is Macquarie University good?

Macquarie consistently ranks among the top 12 universities in Australia on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. This means the uni scores well for its teaching staff, research and international reputation. 

Macquarie University also currently ranks among the top 100 universities in the world for employability

Who are Macquarie University’s most notable alumni?

Some of Australia’s most high-profile politicians, researchers, artists, journalists and business minds have graduated from Macquarie University. 

They include: 

  • Tanya Plibersek, senior Labor Party politician
  • Brad Hazzard, senior Liberal Party politician
  • Jim Soorley, former Lord Mayor of Brisbane 
  • Ian Thorpe, Olympic swimmer
  • Frank Duarte, award-winning laser physicist
  • Dr Cathy Foley, Chief Scientist of Australia 
  • Matt Barrie, founder of Freelancer.com 
  • David Leckie, former CEO of Seven West Media
  • Anne-Marie Schwirtlich AM, former Director-General of the National Library of Australia 
  • Hugh Riminton, Network Ten journalist
  • Margaret Pomeranz AM, film critic
  • Greg Page and Murray Cook, founding members of The Wiggles 
What is it like to study online with Macquarie University?

As an innovation-first university, it’s no surprise that Macquarie’s online learning experience is top-notch. 

The university has a custom online learning platform called MQ iLearn, which is where you’ll access all your lectures, tutorials, readings and assessments. Your lectures will be recorded videos, while you’ll participate in tutorials via discussion forums. 

You’re free to complete your coursework when it suits you, provided you meet the regular deadlines set by your tutors. 

For some first-time students, this has its upsides and downsides. On one hand, it’s much easier to fit study around your life. On the other hand, it can be daunting when you’re left to manage your own time. Just remember you’re not alone. iLearn has spaces where you can connect with your classmates, start study groups and access student support services. You’ll soon settle into a rhythm.

And when you graduate, you’ll receive the same qualification as an on-campus student.

Why should I study my course through Open Universities Australia?

When you enrol through us, we handle all the administration for you, but you will study directly with Macquarie University. 

There are a few reasons to consider enrolling in your online course this way. 

You can skip entry requirements

We have a unique open-door policy that makes it possible for everyone to get into uni, regardless of their academic history. If you don’t meet the entry requirements for a Macquarie degree, we can help you enrol through single undergraduate subjects. 

You have more control over how you study

If you’re worried about the impact uni could have on your work, family or social life, it’s worth giving us a call. We’ll introduce you to flexible study options you’ve never even heard about. 

We’re always here to guide you

As a not-for-profit, we’re able to give you truly unbiased advice about Macquarie courses. Our only priority is finding a course that makes sense for you. We can also advise you on your Macquarie enrolment, your MQ study plan, and government loans. We will be by your side throughout your time as a student.   

How do I enrol with Macquarie University through Open Universities Australia?

Navigate to the course you’re interested in on our website. If it’s a subject or short course and there is an upcoming start date, you will be able to enrol instantly. 

If it’s a degree, select ‘Apply’ and follow the prompts to begin your Macquarie University application. You will be asked to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI).

We’ll submit everything to Macquarie University on your behalf. The university will then email you to confirm whether your application has been successful.

Please note that different courses are open at different points throughout the year. Check our key dates page for Macquarie University enrolment dates. 

For more information about enrolment, read our online self-service enrolling instructions.

 
Where can I get Macquarie University enrolment help?

If you need help enrolling in your Macquarie University course, get in touch with one of our friendly student advisors. 

You can ask them about anything, including subject selection, applying for a HELP loan, and submitting your documentation. They can even walk you through the enrolment process, step-by-step, over the phone.   

You can also find a direct Macquarie Uni contact here.

Talk to a student advisor

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Over 505,000 students have enrolled in university through us since 1993.

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