Updated 18 December 2023
In this article, we reveal the top 10 most popular university courses in Australia for 2023 according to the University Admissions Centre (UAC). While this data is limited to domestic undergraduate applicants who applied through UAC, it provides an overview of the most popular fields of study for graduating high school students, and as a result, the most popular fields of employment for university graduates.
1. Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor Medicine, Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine
This combined undergraduate and postgraduate degree prepares students for a career in professional medical practice through clinical experience and medical research.
Institution: UNSW
Number of first preferences: 1,645
Graduate roles may vary depending on the particular arts majors and individual specialisations studied. However, some jobs may include:
- Surgical Resident
- Biomedical Scientist
- Medical Sales Representative
- Medical Writer
- Histology Technician
- Clinical Research Associate
2. Bachelor of Business
This degree traverses all areas of business, allowing students to select from a range of majors and sub-majors, including accounting, business law, economics, finance, human resource management, information technology, international business, management, marketing, advertising and marketing communications, and business data analytics.
Institution: University of Technology Sydney
Number of first preferences: 877
Graduate roles may vary depending on the particular business major chosen. However, some jobs may include:
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Banker
- Business Analyst
- Economist
- Financial Planner
3. Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (Joint Medical Program)
This combined undergraduate and postgraduate degree provides an understanding of medicine, patient-centred clinical methods, Aboriginal health and public health and critical research skills.
Institution: University of Newcastle/University of New England
Number of first preferences: 852
Graduate roles may include:
- Surgical Resident
- Phlebotomist
- Clinical Administrator
- Medical Research Assistant
- Registered Nurse
- Pharmaceutical Marketing
4. Doctor of Medicine (Joint Program)
This degree provides clinical training that consists of learning from elders during an Aboriginal Health Service placement, General Practice, community health services, research skills, and personal and professional development.
Institution: Western Sydney University/Charles Sturt University
Number of first preferences: 837
Graduate roles may include:
- Surgical Resident
- Hospital Administrator
- Research Scientist
- Dietitian
- Anaesthetist
- Athletic Trainer
5. Bachelor of Arts
This degree is ideal for students pursuing a career in arts and social sciences and allows for specialisation based on their personal interests.
Institution: University of Sydney
Number of first preferences: 755
Graduate roles will vary depending on a particular student’s major, minor and specific interests. Some options may include:
- Archivist
- Government Policy Officer
- Journalist
- Sociologist
- Archaeologist
- Business administrator
6. Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws
This combined double degree allows students to pursue multiple areas of interest. It provides a pathway to professional legal practice.
Institution: University of Sydney
Number of first preferences: 714
Graduate roles may include:
- Lawyer
- Paralegal
- Diplomat
- Policy Advisor
- Management Consultant
- Project Officer
7. Bachelor of Commerce
This degree encompasses both theory and practice, providing students with an understanding of accounting, business analytics, management and marketing. Opportunities for professional advancement include international exchanges and work placement.
Institution: University of Sydney
Number of first preferences: 692
Graduate roles may vary depending on a student’s major and minor. Some options may include:
- Accountant
- Business Analyst
- Finance Manager
- Logistics Coordinator
- Customer Insights Analyst
- Auditor
8. Bachelor of Nursing
This degree builds the theoretical and clinical knowledge of students interested in pursuing a career in nursing. Students undergo clinical placement and have the opportunity to pursue a clinical specialty.
Institution: University of Technology Sydney
Number of first preferences: 649
- Registered Nurse
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Researcher
- Nurse Practitioner
- Midwife
- Clinical Associate
9. Double Commerce Degrees
There are fourteen unique degree combinations available. Students gain a foundational business education that equips them with skills for employment in various sectors.
Institution: UNSW
Number of first preferences: 562
Graduate roles will vary depending on the double degree studied. Some options include:
- Tax Advisor
- Property Business Analyst
- Recruitment Officer
- Marketing Manager
- Customer Experience Specialist
- Financial Advisor
10. Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) single and double degrees
A degree in Computer Science focuses on the design, construction and use of computer systems. Students learn about computing tools, operating systems, compilers and translators, computer hardware.
Institution: UNSW
Number of first preferences: 561
Graduate roles may vary depending on the double degree combinations chosen. However, some jobs may include:
- Software Engineer
- Cyber Consultant
- Technical Consultant
- Web Developer
- Information Security Analyst
- Systems Architect