International programs overview
For over a decade, the Australian Centre has provided a range of tailored Australian Studies courses to students at undergraduate and graduate levels in association with several leading universities and recruiters in Asia, North America and Europe. These specialised courses are unique in that they offer a full academic program taught by leading academics, and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of home universities and recruiters and to suit a wide range of disciplines and interests. In general, academic programs draw upon the expertise of Australian Centre staff in the areas of Australian history, politics, indigenous issues, multiculturalism, race and gender, art and culture but the Centre also works with other departments in the Arts Faculty and other Faculties at the University to create specific programs, all of which can be designed to meet accreditation standards of home institutions. The Australian Centre also offers academic programs that have been designed for ESL-level students and are pitched to meet ESL-level requirements.
Offered in conjunction with academic programs developed by the Australian Centre or as an addition to any other visiting program, the Centre's cultural programs are designed specifically for international students and contribute to a complete understanding of the complexities of contemporary Australian life. The cultural programs use guided activities, excursions, specialist cultural presentations and social events to enhance the students' overall experience and understanding of Australia. The Australian Centre specialises in developing overnight or longer fieldtrips allowing groups to explore local or remote parts of Australia, as well as other countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
Academic and cultural programs may also be combined with intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction for groups. These too can be customised in terms of teaching hours, level or subject matter, to suit the individual needs of each group. The Australian Centre can also arrange additional services such as airport transfers, meals, accommodation, 24-hour emergency contacts and counsellors. Accommodation options include homestays, serviced apartments, guesthouses or, depending on the time of year, short-term stays at one of the University of Melbourne's residential colleges.
At the Australian Centre and in the development of a complex understanding of Australian social, political and cultural life, we consider the provision of a dynamic learning environment to be as important as the maintenance of rigorous academic and vibrant cultural programs. Through our diverse programs, we strive to provide a welcoming environment that allows visiting students to experience the University of Melbourne, to feel at home in a new city and to benefit most from their time in Australia.
Contact us with any queries. We welcome new programs, which can be designed and negotiated upon request.