Students apply for an internship by submitting a resume and cover letter via the Internet once accepted to the CIEE program. Following arrival, each student meets with the Internships program team at Macquarie University. At that time, students are typically offered an interview at one or more of the host organizations. Should a students interview be successful, the student will officially be offered a placement and commence their internship early in the semester. Details will be available to each student as part of their pre-departure materials. Internship options may not be available until the orientation in Sydney.

Academic Culture
The Australian educational system is student-centered, requiring self-motivation and independent learning from students. American students need to be prepared to adapt to this learning style and realize they need to 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 seminar classes each week. Science-based classes normally require three hours of laboratory classes per week. Students learn through a mixture of lectures, small group tutorials, and seminars that allow them the opportunity to discuss and process what they are learning and keep pace with their fellow students.

The CIEE program at Macquarie University is offered both semesters and consists of a three-day orientation, approximately 13 weeks of classes, one or two weeks of mid-semester break, and a two-week final exam period. At Australian universities, the academic year runs from late February or early March through the end of November and comprises two main sessions. Session I, from late February/early March to early July, corresponds to the U.S. spring semester. Session II, from mid-July through November, corresponds to the U.S. fall semester. The academic year program consists of two consecutive semesters and may follow the U.S. calendar (Session II and Session I) or the Australian calendar (Session I and Session II).

Highlights:

• Internships with local businesses and organizations through Macquarie University
  
• On-site CIEE Resident Director provides students with full-time academic and personal support and arranges local and regional excursions, volunteer opportunities, and cultural events
  
• Innovative courses in many fields, including economics and financial studies; humanities; business; psychology; and environmental and life sciences

Murramarang Excursion
A highlight of the semester is a 2- or 3-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. Students stay in cabins surrounded by a national park, water, and beaches. Dolphins can sometimes be seen in the bay and kangaroos freely roam the area, visiting from the nearby forests. On some trips students may spend a day hiking a mountain that is sacred to the local Aboriginal people, guided by an Aboriginal elder who imparts precious teachings about Indigenous Australians and their culture, an experience that few Australians ever have.

Other options may include a bay cruise to see dolphins and other marine park wildlife, and take part in an authentic Aboriginal corroboree or dance. Theres also time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings - clear blue waters, long sandy beaches, and a coastline largely untouched by humans. Whichever weekend students are a part of, they are encouraged to get in touch with nature and see themselves in a new light to find their creative inner selves. The stunning natural setting is perfect for such reflection.

Cost in US$: Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing

Experience Required: yes

Overall GPA 3.0

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Australia Independently

Scholarships are Available. - We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Transcript
• Written Application

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. As we look ahead, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles and values that guide this mission statement.

Year Founded: 1947