La Trobe has been one of Australia's pioneering universities for more than 50 years. Discover our unique history, including our motto and coat of arms.

In 1967, 552 students enrolled at La Trobe University, the third university to open in Victoria, which has grown to accommodate more than 36,000 students, with over 7,000 international students from 110 countries.

We now have a network of campuses, with over 28,000 students at our Melbourne Campus and over 7,500 at our campuses in Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Melbourne City (Collins Street), Shepparton and Sydney.

La Trobe University was named after Charles Joseph La Trobe, the first Superintendent of the Port Phillip District from 1839 to 1850, and first Lieutenant-Governor of the new colony of Victoria from 1851 to 1854.  He was driven by his need to make a difference to the communities he served, leaving a legacy that continues today at La Trobe University.

Sir Charles La Trobe did more to shape the Australian State of Victoria than others. From his love of the Australian environment and its conservation, his ambitious plan to transform the colony of Victoria, to his concern for the welfare of the first Australians, he was deeply driven by progressive social values.

His values are echoed in La Trobe University's founding mission to serve the community through improving access to higher education, and it is a tradition that continues today with a range of programs and initiatives to increase higher education participation rates amongst Victoria's disadvantaged communities.

La Trobe University's Armorial Bearings combine significant symbols that encapsulate its history, goals, and pride in its Victorian genesis.

Australia is represented by the Australian wedge-tailed eagle, one of the world's largest eagles. Victoria is represented by the sprigs of heath, the state’s floral emblem. The eagle is represented in La Trobe's brandmark.

The open book refers to the University's commitment to learning. The scallop shells are part of the La Trobe family bearings and have been included to acknowledge the La Trobe name.

When people think of Australia, they see wide open spaces of outback bush, kangaroos, koalas, and clean air and water. Australia has much more to offer than the usual expectations. Many international students are choosing to study in Australia because of its friendly, laid-back nature, excellent education system, and high standard of living.

Growing Destination

Australia is currently the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world, behind the United States and the UK. Many international students choose to study there because of the cultural diversity, friendly natives, and high quality of education.

Global Recognition

Graduates from Australian schools are highly sought after due to the impressive international reputation of the Australian education system. This system is carefully regulated by the government in order to maintain the high standards of education associated with the country.

Cost of Living

Australia’s standard of living is amongst the highest in the world. Living expenses and tuition costs are considerably lower in Australia than they are in the United States and United Kingdom. International students are able to work part time while they study, allowing them to offset their living costs. There is also the possibility of scholarships, which helps to lower the cost of studying for international students.

Diversity of Education

Institutions in Australia offer a wide variety of courses and degrees, so international students can easily find the school and field that are right for them. The first decision international students have to make when choosing a degree program is which school caters most to their needs and interests. Students can choose between universities, vocational education, and English language training. If necessary, it is easy for students to move between one qualification level and from one institution to another.

Technology

One of the most appealing aspects of Australia for international students is the emphasis on scientific research. Australia is at the forefront of new technology and innovations. Students who study in Australia can take advantage of the country’s impressive technology and resources.

Work

International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while studying in Australia. This is a great opportunity for those who want to earn money to offset living expenses during their stay, and for students who want to gain work experience in their field of interest while they study. Find out some important things to keep in mind for the working student in Oz.