Tourism and Hospitality serve a recipe of success in latest University rankings

The University was rated number one in Australia for Learner Engagement and Student Support in the category of Tourism, Hospitality, Sport & Leisure for undergraduate studies in the 2025 Good Universities Guide.

This follows the release of the 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (Academic Ranking of World Universities), that saw Southern Cross University placed in the top 200 universities worldwide for Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Southern Cross University’s tourism school, The Hotel School Australia, first opened its doors in 1989 with just 77 students in Sydney. It has since expanded to Brisbane and Melbourne, offering renowned programs in the country’s premier tourism destinations.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin said the ranking results reflect Southern Cross University’s longstanding commitment to delivering world-class education in tourism and hotel management.

“Southern Cross University has a proven history of being a leader in tourism education in Australia. We were the first university in the country to offer university studies in tourism, and we have continued to invest in the growth of The Hotel School Australia,” Professor Carlin said.

“Our students benefit from strong industry connections nationally and abroad, as well as practical training and mentorship from experienced professionals. Work placements and internships are embedded into our tourism degrees. Our metropolitan campus locations mean tourism and hospitality operators are on our doorstep.”

Natasha Angela Manual is a Master of Business in Global Hotel Leadership student who recently received the 2024 Certificate of Academic Achievement for earning the highest overall Grade Point Average in her course. Natasha attributes her success to her dedication, strong student support, and the innovative Southern Cross Model, which offers focused six-week terms.

“Our classes follow a 6×6 timetable – six terms a year, with each term lasting six weeks. We meet once a week for three hours per class, which creates a focused and intense learning environment,” said Natasha.

“This schedule helps with information retention and allows us to dive deeply into each subject. My typical day includes classes, catching up with classmates and tutors, and enjoying social activities like the free lunch program on Wednesdays. It’s a perfect setup for students balancing work and study,” she said.

Now thriving as a Guest Service Agent at her dream hotel, Sofitel Brisbane Central, Natasha credits her success to The Hotel School Australia.

“The Masters course has equipped me with skills and knowledge to excel in the industry, while also introducing me to a network of mentors and peers who continuously support and inspire me,” she said.

Beyond tourism and hospitality, Southern Cross University also received 5-star ratings for undergraduate study in the fields of Agriculture and Environmental Studies, Business and Management, Law and Paralegal Studies, Nursing and Psychology in the 2025 Good Universities Guide. View results here.