For a future-ready university at the cutting edge, The University of Queensland (UQ) is also a place deeply rooted in history.
In fact, newcomers might be surprised to find that UQ has much in common with some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, such as Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge and Yale.
Read on to learn more about what makes UQ such a uniquely exceptional place.
A breath-taking campus
Ask anyone about UQ, and one of the first things they’re likely to mention is the breath-taking sandstone buildings of the Great Court.
Designed in the mid-1930s, this heritage-listed treasure puts a modern spin on traditional European quadrangles. This creates a welcoming place that still evokes the collegiate style of older European universities like Oxford and Cambridge.
While you’re there, make sure you don’t miss your chance to explore the famed carvings. You can find over 1,200 of these incredible pieces of artistry along the building’s walls and columns, comprising plants, animals, inscriptions, friezes and more.
A distinct identity
UQ also distinguishes itself through a strong sense of identity. Our motto, Sciencia ac Labore, translates to “by means of knowledge and hard work”, reinforcing the timeless value of high-quality education.
Each of UQ’s schools and faculties has its own crest, colour and ceremonial identity. Reminiscent of Harvard’s houses and Oxford’s colleges, this allows students, academics and staff to establish close ties with one another and feel a sense of belonging to a long tradition of academic excellence.
Long-standing traditions
Like many other esteemed institutions, UQ also has a variety of traditions that connect our modern students to the past, from Founder’s Day celebrations to the UQ Time Capsule.
Our university is home to some of the country’s oldest student societies, some of which are over 100 years old. This includes the Classics and Ancient History Society, founded in 1949, the Law Society, established in 1937, and the Debating Society, which can trace its origins back to 1909.
Plus, we have over 220 clubs and societies on offer, ensuring students enjoy a vibrant, engaging campus experience.
Another beloved tradition is the Great Court Race. Founded to celebrate the university’s 75th year in 1985, this sees 4 students race around the Great Court cloisters, each hoping to complete the 636m lap before the 12th chime of a bell.
Past winners have gone on to become Olympic champions, making this an event not to miss.
Fascinating folklore
With more than 100 years of history behind it, it’s no surprise that UQ has a lot of interesting stories to tell.
You’ll hear rumours of more than a handful of ghosts said to roam different parts of the campus at night. Among the most famous is Sophea, who is said to haunt the Schonell Theatre, but politely waits until patrons leave.
You might also hear people talking about tunnels under the Great Court, which have been rumoured to hold everything from excess library books to mysterious creatures. While the tunnels do really exist, we’re happy to report they’re simply used as underground service ducts.
Finally, generations of students have enjoyed the annual purple jacaranda blooms, but these have sparked some stories too. You may hear students warn one another, “If you haven’t started studying when the jacarandas bloom, you will fail your exams!”
There’s even the belief that if a jacaranda flower falls on your head, you’ll fail your exam. No wonder students often take pains to avoid walking under these trees when they’re in bloom!
Alumni impact
One of UQ’s proudest traditions is that of academic excellence, so it’s no surprise that our alumni have gone on to do great things.
Among our graduates, we count Nobel Laureate Peter C. Doherty, former Governor-General of Australia Dame Quentin Bryce and co-inventor of the cervical cancer vaccine, Professor Ian Frazer.
And that commitment to achievement continues. UQ is proud to offer prestigious scholarships and fellowships, ensuring our community has what it takes to reach their full potential. With that in mind, it’s no wonder we have the highest number of national teaching awards in Australia.
As one of Australia’s oldest universities, UQ is steeped in history. Now, how will you make history at UQ?
Interested in studying in Australia? Let us introduce you to Brisbane.
Do you want to know more about studying and life at UQ in Australia?
