UNSW Canberra at ADFA

Developing Future Global Leaders

Welcome to UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).

We are a prestigious Australian university college of the University of New South Wales, with a unique focus on defence and security. Here, ADFA trainee officers combine a degree from UNSW with their military and leadership training.

We offer a range of high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programs as well as professional short courses. These cover a range of disciplines within arts, business, engineering, IT and science. All our courses are designed and taught by top researchers and defence industry specialists who address real-world problems.

A Top University

UNSW is:

one of Australia’s leading universities

a founding member of the Group of Eight (Go8)

ranked in the top 50 universities worldwide.

We are committed to excellence in education and research and we have a comprehensive history and partnership with Defence that we are proud of.

What Sets Us Apart

UNSW Canberra at ADFA is a unique university college with:

a close-knit, supportive community, both on-campus and online

the best teacher-to-student ratio in Australia

access to world-class experts as well as unique Defence resources and facilities

quality research programs that help strengthen and secure Australia’s future through our Defence and defence industries partnerships

a unique focus on teaching both Defence Force and civilian students

deep links to industry and government where careers are made

an active and supportive alumni community offering life-long connections.

We can help you excel at your chosen career path, while enhancing the national capability and innovation of the Australian Defence Force.

UNSW Canberra graduates are in high demand to address complex and contemporary challenges across Australia, the region and the globe.

Our Research

UNSW Canberra researchers are at the forefront of discovery and impact. We partner with local and global communities in research, government, industry and defence to find real solutions to the world’s most complex problems.

Discover our research

“UNSW Canberra and Defence work really well together to ensure that we have a healthy balance of university studies and military training.”—Jace Stallard, Bachelor of Technology Aeronautical Engineering

Defence Force Focus

UNSW Canberra is proud to be the only national academic institution to integrate with the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).

Our strength in defence and security-related teaching and research gives you the competitive edge.

Explore the UNSW Canberra and ADFA connection

Find the Degree For You

UNSW Canberra at ADFA is a global university with an international reputation for providing exceptional education and world-leading research. Whether you want to broaden your general knowledge, pursue postgraduate research, or upskill to take the next step in your career, our unique range of degrees and study options will propel you into an exciting and fulfilling future.

Explore our programs

A Leading University in the Nation's Capital

UNSW is one of Australia’s top universities and a founding member of the Group of Eight (Go8). We have a long, comprehensive history of excellence in education and research, ranking as one of the top 50 universities worldwide.

Our Canberra campus is located within one of Australia's most liveable cities. You’ll have access to plentiful part-time work, industry placements and volunteering options while you study. Then strong employment opportunities after you graduate.

Discover UNSW

Lifelong Connections

UNSW Canberra graduates become part of a highly engaged and influential community. They continue to shape Australia and the international community as leaders in defence, government and industry.

Through UNSW Canberra alumni programs you will be able to build lifelong connections and contribute to the community.

Connect with fellow alumni

"For me leadership is about trying to help people understand their own strengths and to recognise them. I had some terrific mentors who believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.”— Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm, Bachelor of Science, 1989

UNSW Canberra