Federation University ranked number one for undergraduate median salary and employment
Federation University Australia has risen to the number one Victorian spot for undergraduate median salary and overall undergraduate employment rates, in the latest graduate outcomes survey.
The newly released Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) 2025 Graduate Outcomes Survey found the University had also retained its spot as number one in Victoria for post-graduate full-time employment.
In the latest results, Federation University was ranked:
- #1 in Victoria and #11 in Australia for undergraduate median salary
- #1 in Victoria and #14 in Australia for overall undergraduate employment rates
- #1 in Victoria and #3 in regional Australia for postgraduate full-time employment rates
The survey showed the median annual salary of Federation undergraduates was $79,300 in 2025, up from $75,700 in 2024.
Federation University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Duncan Bentley said the University was focussed on creating a pipeline of skilled graduates who are stepping into jobs where they are needed most.
“Every day, people across our community benefit from the work of Federation graduates. They’re the nurses caring for patients, the teachers inspiring the next generation and the leaders helping local industries thrive,” he said.
“These results reflect the quality of our graduates and the meaningful contribution they’re making to our communities.”
Professor Bentley said the University's strong employment outcomes were underpinned by its Co-operative Education Model – or Co-op – which connects industry and education through co-design, co-delivery and paid placements.
“We’re designing programs in direct response to industry demand through our Co-operative Education Model, ensuring students are building the skills and experience employers are actively looking for,” Professor Bentley said.
“These results demonstrate that approach is delivering real outcomes. It’s leading to stronger job outcomes and higher salaries for graduates as they bring their newly acquired knowledge and skills to the communities of regional Victoria and Melbourne’s south-east.”
Federation graduate and Ernst & Young consultant Lucy McKeegan said she was living proof of the strong employment outcomes highlighted in the survey.
“Federation prepared me for the workplace in ways that went beyond the classroom,” she said.
“It gave me the opportunity to get a great education while staying connected to my community. It meant I graduated with practical experience, strong industry connections and the confidence to take the next step in my career.”
The survey is a snapshot of graduates’ work and further study outcomes about four to six months after they have completed their course, with students from more than 42 Australian universities participating in 2025.
For more information on QILT and the latest results, visit www.qilt.edu.au