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ACU achieves top ranking for theology

Australian Catholic University (ACU) has achieved its highest-ever global ranking for theology in the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject.

ACU was ranked number 22 in the world and number one in Australia for Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies - a significant milestone for the university’s academic excellence and global impact.

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy Executive Dean Professor Richard Colledge said this marked the fourth successive year that ACU had led the nation in this field.

“This is a very pleasing result. It reflects ACU’s commitment to world-class research and teaching, and the dedication of our faculty, researchers and students,” Professor Colledge said.

“One of the key responsibilities of a Catholic university is to contribute to religious scholarship, and this reinforces our reputation as a leader in this discipline on the global stage.

“Since its founding, ACU has been a mission-focused institution dedicated to the pursuit of truth, the dignity of the human person, and the common good. It is wonderful the strength of our program, which has these values at its heart, is being consistently recognised in this way internationally.

“One of the key drivers for the strength of our program is our network of international partnerships with other institutions and researchers. ACU’s campus in Rome provides us with a wonderful venue for research collaborations and hands-on coursework experiences for our students, just a short walk from the Vatican.”

ACU also received a ranking for Classics and Ancient History for the first time, with ACU making its debut among the top 100 in the world.

Faculty of Education and Arts Executive Dean Professor Mary Ryan said the result reflected the depth and strength of ACU’s research in these disciplines.

“This ranking is testament to the calibre of our research in these fields, with world-renowned faculty who are helping to illuminate the present through the past,” Professor Ryan said.

“As part of the School of Arts at ACU, we offer the Western Civilisation and Ancient Israel programs, which are introducing a new generation of students to the Classics and bringing ancient history to life.”

The QS World University Rankings by Subject are based on academic reputation, employer reputation and research citations.

Learn more about ACU’s courses and research in Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies, including the Faculty of Theology and Philosophy here, ACU’s Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry here and ACU’s Western Civilisation program here.