Pacific Rim Studies in New Zealand

  New Zealand

• All Other Areas in New Zealand: 
Hamilton

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
Dates: Spring(SemesterI): mid Feb-late June; Fall(SemesterII): early July-mid Nov; Academic Year: mid Feb-mid Nov

Description: Join World Endeavors for a unique semester of Pacific Rim Studies in New Zealand. You will earn academic credit and a certificate in Pacific Rim Studies while studying alongside students from New Zealand and all over the world. Explore the cultures of the indigenous people of the Pacific region, in particular the Maori people, in the context of social, cultural, economic, and political change.

Courses are offered in history, linguistics and anthropology. Students will gain a better understanding of the indigenous cultures of the Pacific region and the issues that these people face today while exploring the rich, colorful Maori core of New Zealand's identity.

Highlights: New Zealand lies in the South Pacific and consists of two main islands, the North and South Islands. The country is three hours by air from the east coast of Australia, and is an overnight flight from the western United States. This unique country, with a population of only 3.5 million, is similar in geographical size to the United Kingdom or Japan, but its breath-taking scenery sets it apart from the rest of the world. From rolling green farmlands dotted with sheep, to barren volcanic desert areas, from golden beaches with crystal clear blue water to majestic snow covered mountains. New Zealand offers a sample of every possible landscape and recreational opportunity. Its people (known the world over as kiwis) are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, their love of sports and the great outdoors. Visitors to New Zealand find it easy to fit in and enjoy the casual, safe and relaxing lifestyle.

The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand and have one of the oldest cultures in the world. A Maori renaissance that started in the 1970s has continued to gather momentum. Now Maori culture has reclaimed its rightful position as an equal partner in New Zealand life.

After arriving in New Zealand, an orientation program specifically for study abroad students is held. The orientation covers settling in to New Zealand, culture shock, accommodations, health and safety, health insurance, student clubs and societies, email access, study skills, weekend trips and social events. During orientation students will complete enrollment in their courses.

Each student will take three to four courses (or papers) for 15 points per course (roughly equivalent to 3 to 4 US academic credits. Academic credit and transcripts will be issued by Waikato University after the successful completion of course requirements for the semester program.

Cost in US$: Varies. Please visit our website.

Experience Required: yes

Applicants must have: * Completed one year of university study * A cumulative minimum GPA of 2.75 - 3.0 * English language proficiency * A sense of adventure!

Participants Travel to New Zealand Independently

World Endeavors's Mission Statement: World Endeavors is a provider of unique international volunteer, internship, and study programs. Our mission is to become a catalyst for positive change in our community and the world through quality international programs.