CIEE Arts and Sciences Program in Wollongong, Australia

  Australia

• New South Wales: 
Wollongong

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Throughout the year 
Dates: Fall 18 weeks: mid-July-late-November; Spring 18 weeks: mid-February-late-June; Academic Year 48 weeks: mid-July-late-June; Calendar Year 40 weeks: mid-February-late-November

Description: The Arts and Sciences program at the CIEE Study Center at the University of Wollongong provides a supportive environment in which students gain personal independence and intellectual insight into Australias dynamic and contemporary society. Through integration with local students, as well as CIEE field trips, students participate in and reflect upon the academic, social, and cultural environments in which they live and study. The Universitys location offers students easy access to the larger cities while studying in an area of natural beauty.

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 flowing from studying abroad 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:

• Many study options, from Australian studies and engineering to environmental studies, health sciences, biological sciences, and education
  
• A modern, well-equipped university on a friendly, beautiful campus close to beaches and Sydney; staffed on-site by full-time CIEE staff
  
• A variety of excursions organized by CIEE staff, including a three-day bush walking trip to the New South Wales coast, as well as many educational opportunities, including visits to the Sydney Opera House and surfing lessons

South Coast Excursion
A day is spent hiking a mountain that is sacred to the local Aboriginal people, guided by an Aboriginal elder 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 surroundingsclear blue waters, long sandy beaches, and a coastline largely untouched by humans.

Other Trips and Activities
Other trips and destinations may include: Sydney; the Blue Mountains; Minnamurra Rainforest; a surfing lesson; sports events, such as an Australian Football League or Aussie Rules match; Nan Tien Temple (largest Buddhist Temple in the southern hemisphere); and such activities as hikingand watching Australian films.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

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

Experience Required: yes