From 2027, students in Changchun will be able to study Southern Cross University information technology and engineering degrees in China through a new joint institute with Changchun University of Technology.
Southern Cross University and Changchun University of Technology have formally opened the International Institute of Future Technologies, creating a new pathway for students in China to study Southern Cross University degrees.
Approved by China’s Ministry of Education, the joint institute will welcome its first students in Term 1, 2027, offering:
• the Bachelor of Information Technology, including a Big Data specialisation
• the Bachelor of Engineering or Master of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)
The partnership brings together complementary strengths in applied engineering, technology and industry-connected education.
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Founded in 1952 to support China’s emerging automotive industry, Changchun University of Technology has deep roots in applied engineering and industry. Its research strengths now span carbon fibre and composite materials, advanced manufacturing, rail transit, artificial intelligence and big data, with a strong focus on translating research into industry.
Southern Cross University brings its own strengths in engineering and computing education, as well as in student experience. The Good Universities Guide 2026 ranked the University first in Australia for the quality of postgraduate engineering and technology teaching and overall educational experience, while postgraduate computing and information systems received five stars for teaching quality and student support.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin said the partnership was a strong fit between two universities with a shared focus on preparing graduates for rapidly changing industries.
“Changchun University of Technology has more than 70 years of experience working closely with industry and educating engineers, while Southern Cross University brings a strong focus on contemporary, student-centred engineering and technology education,” Professor Carlin said.
“The Institute brings those strengths together, giving students in Changchun access to Southern Cross University degrees while benefiting from the expertise and industry connections of both universities.”
Opening Ceremony of International Institute of Future Technologies in China.
Planning for the institute has been underway throughout 2026. By March, the universities had progressed curriculum and delivery planning for the first programs. In June, a CCUT delegation visited Southern Cross University to work with academic and professional staff on program implementation, curriculum delivery, governance and student support.
The visit concluded with the signing of a Collaboration Agreement (link), ahead of the institute’s approval from China’s Ministry of Education.
The International Institute of Future Technologies was officially launched at a ceremony in Changchun in October, attended by representatives from both universities.
Following the ceremony, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Tim Smith joined Southern Cross University colleagues in meeting students, who gathered around the delegation for photos and conversation.
“Our team was quickly surrounded by students wanting to talk and take photos. There was a real sense of excitement in the room about what this partnership could mean for them,” Professor Smith said.
Executive Director, Southern Cross Global, Damon Ferris, said teams from both universities were now focused on preparing for the first intake.
“Teams at both universities have worked closely on curriculum, delivery and student support. Our focus now is making sure students in Changchun receive a consistent Southern Cross University experience from their first day.”
Students are expected to commence at the International Institute of Future Technologies in Term 1, 2027.
