The student population of the University is about 8,000, allowing for relatively small lecture and tutorial groups and close contact between students and staff. Courses in Applied Science include the biological, earth and physical sciences, environmental and coastal management. Accounting, computing, finance and marketing management are offered in Business. The school of Health Sciences incorporates the nursing, aboriginal health, and sports science-human movement programs. The School of Contemporary Arts emphasizes studio-based activities, current technology and electronic media.
Students can study visual arts, contemporary music and communications.
Primary teachers education courses, which include cirriculum studies and practicums, are offered in the School of Education. The exchange program is based on a agreement between Southern Cross and UNK that allows a reciprocal exchange of students. Exchange students pay the program cost to their home institution and then swap places with students selected to participate in the exchange varies from year to year and depends on the balance of the exchange. Credits earned at Southern Cross are transferable to UNK by department validation. UNK students remain eligible for most scholarships and other forms of financial aid that they normally receive.