Description

The Arts and Sciences study abroad program in Wollongong, Australia is designed for humanities and/or science students with an academic interest in Australian culture and a desire to study and live in both an urban and coastal location.

Academic Program
Established in 1997, the Arts and Sciences program at the University of Wollongong allows participants to fulfill home institution major requirements in a variety of fields. Students are fully assimilated into University life by studying and living with students from Australia and other countries, thus becoming part of the melting pot of cultures that is integral to campus life. Students benefit academically and personally from the new perspectives, insights, and experiences gained from studying in a genuinely multicultural, but English language-based, society.

A wide range of courses in a variety of disciplines is available from the following faculties: arts, commerce, creative arts, education, engineering, health and behavioral sciences, informatics, law, and science. CIEE students are encouraged to enroll in at least one course with specific Australian content or in a course that offers a distinctive Australian perspective in their area of interest.

Academic Culture
The Australian educational system generally expects self-motivated, independent work from students. American students need to adapt to this learning style and take initiative in classes that do not provide continuous assessment throughout the semester. A typical class requires two or three hours of lectures and one or two hours of tutorials or seminars each week. Science-based subjects normally require an additional three hours of laboratory classes weekly.

The University's academic year runs from mid-February through mid-November and comprises two main sessions. Session I, from mid-February to late June, corresponds to the U.S. spring semester (known as the University of Wollongong "Autumn Session"). Session II, from mid-July to mid-November, corresponds to the U.S. fall semester (known as the University of Wollongong "Spring Session"). Students attending the University of Wollongong in the U.S. fall semester will finish exams in mid-November. Students in the U.S. spring semester will finish exams in late June. The program is offered both semesters and consists of a one-week orientation, 13 weeks of classes, a one-week mid-semester break, a one-week study period, and a two-week final exam period. The academic year program consists of two consecutive semesters and may follow the U.S. academic year (Session II and Session I) or the Australian calendar year (Session I and Session II).

Highlights

• Receive on-site personal support and academic leadership from CIEE staff with advanced degrees in the field of Experiential Education
  
• Choose from many study options - on a friendly, beautiful campus close to beaches and Sydney - including communications, health sciences, biological sciences, and education
  
• Take part in a variety of CIEE excursions including a three-day bush walking trip to New South Wales, visits to the Sydney Opera House, and surfing lessons

South Coast Excursion
A highlight of the semester is a three-day excursion to an area of outstanding natural beauty on the New South Wales South Coast where students are introduced to Aboriginal culture, as well as to Australian flora and fauna. Program participants stay in cabins at a comfortable resort, located right on the beach and surrounded by a national park. Dolphins and whales can sometimes be seen in the bay, and kangaroos and wallabies freely roam the resort.

A day is spent hiking a mountain that is sacred to the local Aboriginal people. The hike is led by an Aboriginal guide who imparts teachings about Indigenous Australians and their culture. This insight is extremely special and provides an experience that few Australians ever have. It has had a huge impact on past participants on the program. Bushwalks are led by a local naturalist, giving students a deeper understanding of local flora, fauna, and geology. Relax and enjoy your beautiful surroundings - clear blue waters, long sandy beaches, and a coastline largely untouched by humans.

Other Trips and Activities
Other trips and destinations may include: A day trip to Sydney to view the iconic city; an overnight trip to the Blue Mountains where students may abseil down sandstone cliffs and bushwalk in ancient canyons; surfing lessons on one of the Illawarra's many beaches; excursions to sports events, such as an Australian Football League or Aussie Rules match; and trips to the Nan Tien Temple (largest Buddhist Temple in the southern hemisphere).

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing.

Program Fees Include:

The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, most meals, full-time program leadership and support, optional on-site airport meet and greet, orientation, local excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.

*Includes mandatory Australian insurance

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 3.0
• Students with lower GPAs may be accepted; contact CIEE for more information

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Apartment/Flat
• Independent living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Scholarships are Available

We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application
• Other

CIEE's Mission Statement

Since 1947, the Council on International Educational Exchange, known as CIEE, has been in pursuit of its mission, "to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge, and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. Our services to young people studying, working, teaching, and traveling abroad are more important than ever.

Year Founded

1947