sydney aerial view
Sydney, Australia

Arts + Sciences Trimester (University of New South Wales)

New for Spring 2025!

Study Program

Tentative Dates

-

14 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 semester hours

18 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey of learning, exploration, and cultural immersion? Our trimester program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney is designed for students seeking a shorter but equally enriching study abroad experience. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive into the vibrant academic and social scene of Sydney while earning credits toward your degree.

Sydney – with its iconic skyline dominated by the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge – serves as the perfect backdrop for your study abroad adventure. Immerse yourself in the laid-back Aussie lifestyle as you stroll along the sun-kissed beaches of Bondi or Manly, catch a wave at world-renowned surf spots, or explore the bustling markets and eclectic eateries that dot the city. With its rich cultural tapestry, stunning natural beauty, and dynamic urban landscape, Sydney offers a truly immersive experience that will leave you forever changed.

At UNSW, you'll find yourself at the forefront of academic excellence, surrounded by passionate faculty and driven peers from around the globe. Our trimester program offers diverse courses tailored to meet your academic interests and goals. Plus, you will have the opportunity to participate in CIEE’s cultural and extracurricular activities, with ample opportunities to expand your horizons beyond the classroom to gain valuable real-world experience.

Whether you're exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Newtown and Surry Hills, hiking through the breathtaking Blue Mountains, or soaking in the awe-inspiring views from the Sydney Tower Eye, your time at UNSW will be filled with unforgettable experiences that will shape your future and broaden your perspective. So, pack your bags, say goodbye to the familiar, and get ready to make Sydney your home away from home. Your Australian adventure awaits! 

Unique Experiences

Explore 100+ beautiful parks and reserves

scattered throughout the city

\

Enjoy access to 20 major art galleries and museums

showcasing both local and international works

Explore Sydney's diverse culinary scene

with 6,000+ restaurants offering cuisines from around the globe

100+

BEACHES ALONG SYDNEY’S COASTLINE

50+

50+

200+

LANGUAGES SPOKEN

Experience
  • Sydney
  • Sydney
  • Sydney

Your Destination

Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world and Sydney is its business hub and the country's launching point for exchanging goods, services, and ideas with its Asian neighbors. Sydney is one of the Southern Hemisphere's leading centers for startups, trade, finance, tech, and media production. With a population of around five million, Sydney is a cosmopolitan city consistently ranked as one of the best cities to live in globally because of its strong social inclusion, diversity, tolerance, and healthy lifestyle.  

Sydney is an incredibly diverse city, and home to people from all over the world. Nearly half of its residents speak a language other than English at home and 36% were born overseas. The first inhabitants, the Aboriginals, are the world's oldest civilization, and this heritage has helped shape modern Australia. This one-of-a-kind mix of people and cultures led to a shared spirit and attitude that is the Australian way of life. Aussies are known for their laid-back "no-worries" attitude, being open-hearted and open-minded, and believing that everyone should have equal rights and opportunities, what they call locally as having a "fair go."  

Sydney is blessed with some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world; more than 80% of Australia's plants and animals are unique to our Islands and are found nowhere else on the planet. There is also a bubbling art scene, with the city government supporting young and fun artistic pursuits, including Sydney's Art and About, Vivid Sydney, Sydney Movie Festival, regular food, art, crafts, and music events, and the list goes on! 

The CIEE Sydney Center is strategically located in the heart of Sydney's Downtown (CBD) close to public transport, restaurants, retail shops, and entertainment. CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Sydney. 

The Culture

koala at taronga zoo, sydney, austraila

Excursions & Activities

  • We offer a variety of activities and day trips to allow you to immerse yourself in Australia's culture and historical heritage, which may include: 
  • Hiking the spectacular Blue Mountains with experienced and informed guides ready to share the environmental and cultural history of the spectacular landscape 
  • Learning about the world's oldest civilization during one of our Aboriginal cultural tours   
  • Enjoying a day at the famous Manly Beach and join a guided historical Q-station (Quarantine Station) tour in Sydney Harbour National Park and learn about the first Australian visitors' quarantine history and experience 
  • Hiking at one of Sydney's National Parks, such as Wolli Creek Park, La Perouse Park, and Sydney Harbour National Park 
  • Visiting one of the city’s many museums like Australian Museum, Art Gallery of NSW, and Contemporary Art Museum 
  • Learning about Sydney's beach lifestyle while enjoying an Aussie BBQ (Barbie) at Bondi Beach, Coogee Beach, and/or Shelly Beach 
  • Meeting local animals, including kangaroos and koalas, during one of our zoo visits to Taronga Zoo, Wildlife Sydney Zoo, or Sydney Zoo 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Sounds of the Land Down Under: A Journey Through Australian Music

By CIEE Sydney at CIEE

Australia's music scene is as diverse and vibrant as the country itself, spanning genres from rock and pop to indigenous music and electronic dance. From iconic bands and legendary artists... keep reading

From CIEE

Exploring Sydney's Vibrant Markets: A Feast for the Senses

By CIEE Sydney at CIEE

Sydney's markets are bustling hubs of activity, offering a sensory delight of sights, sounds, and smells that capture the essence of the city's diverse culture and creativity. From fresh produce... keep reading

From CIEE

CIEE Sydney Staff Food Recommendations

By CIEE Sydney at CIEE

Are you tired of settling for mediocre meals and uninspiring snacks during your breaks between classes? Fear not! The CIEE Team has scouted the area surrounding the office and Abbey... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) offers an unparalleled academic experience for students participating in our trimester program. As a leading Australian public research university, UNSW boasts a prestigious reputation both domestically and internationally, ranking 4th in Australia and 45th in the world. With its main campus nestled in the vibrant suburb of Kensington in Sydney, students have access to world-class facilities, cutting-edge research, and a diverse range of academic programs across nine faculties.

Our trimester program at UNSW is designed to provide students with a unique and immersive academic experience in a shorter timeframe. With a trimester structure spanning 13 weeks, students can choose from a wide selection of courses offered across various disciplines, including but not limited to business, engineering, arts, sciences, and more. Whether you're interested in delving into the complexities of finance, exploring the latest advancements in civil engineering, or studying the intricacies of remote sensing and water resources, UNSW offers a comprehensive range of courses taught by renowned faculty members who are experts in their fields.

At UNSW, academic excellence is at the forefront of everything they do. Our trimester program maintains the same high standards of rigor and quality as our traditional semester programs, ensuring that students receive a rich and fulfilling educational experience. With an interactive learning environment and a focus on hands-on practical experience, students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in their chosen fields and make a meaningful impact in an increasingly interconnected world. UNSW provides a supportive and stimulating academic community where students are encouraged to push the boundaries of knowledge and pursue their passions with enthusiasm and curiosity. 

GPA

2.7

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

Students will enroll in UNSW full time for 3, 4-credit courses for a total of 12 US credits.  

Note: The required minimum must be secured (for visa purposes); an overload might be accepted on a case-by-case basis but should be avoided due to the expected high workload (this would also come at an additional cost).  

Program Credit

Total credit: 12 U.S. semester/18 quarter credits

Course Credit

UNSW Courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 60 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

Our trimester program at UNSW presents students with an opportunity to integrate into a dynamic academic community renowned for its excellence and innovation. With access to top-tier facilities, esteemed faculty, and an extensive array of courses spanning diverse disciplines, students are encouraged to delve into their interests, broaden their horizons, and forge meaningful connections with peers from across the globe. Classes at UNSW are typically scheduled throughout the week, with timings varying between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., offering flexibility for students to manage their academic commitments alongside other activities.

At UNSW, active participation and consistent attendance are fundamental to academic success. Students are expected to attend classes regularly and punctually, as outlined by UNSW regulations, which dictate that those attending less than 80% of scheduled classes risk being refused final assessment. This underscores the significance of fully engaging in academic experience, encompassing vibrant classroom discussions and immersive co-curricular activities.

With a nurturing learning environment and an unwavering dedication to excellence, UNSW empowers students to thrive academically, intellectually, and personally during their trimester program in Sydney, Australia. By fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and achievement, UNSW equips students with the tools and confidence to navigate their academic journey and emerge as globally minded scholars prepared to make a positive impact on the world. 

Class Format

UNSW classes are scheduled throughout the week, Monday to Friday, offering flexibility to accommodate students' various commitments. Attendance is emphasized, with students expected to attend a significant portion of face-to-face sessions.

Australian universities typically require students to take responsibility for learning and encourage self-motivation and self-discipline. Daily assignments and readings are common, disseminated through online platforms or email, allowing students to engage with course material beyond the classroom with the expectation that they will contribute actively to discussions during class. Students are expected to work much more independently than in the U.S., thus more time may be required for studying than students are accustomed to at their home campuses.  

To enhance learning experiences, many courses at both CIEE and the UNSW incorporate practical applications such as local field trips and guest speakers. These opportunities not only deepen students' understanding of the subject matter but also provide insights into the local culture and context.

Courses taught at the CIEE Center are typically for CIEE students only. Host Institution classes include both local and international students. Instruction for both CIEE and Host Institution courses is supported and augmented online by the learning management system, Canvas.

UNSW faculty delivers most of the academic content, except for the optional Intercultural Communication and Leadership course. CIEE Sydney administrative and academic team will deliver the ICL course and serve as an academic resource for students.   

Grading

Assessment at UNSW is typically based on essays, project reports, a midterm, tutorial/seminar participation and performance, and practical and final exams. CIEE reports final grades for host institution courses using recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, following a predetermined grade conversion scale. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Courses

Course Information

University of New South Wales (UNSW) Courses

Faculty of Engineering

Course Offerings: Explore a diverse range of engineering disciplines, from civil and mechanical engineering to electrical and aerospace engineering. Sample courses include Introduction to Engineering Design, Sustainable Energy Systems, and Advanced Materials Engineering.

Course Lists:(Note: Not all courses listed are offered every semester, and some courses may have prerequisites. Final course lists are available during the enrollment process.)

Faculty of Business

Course Offerings: Immerse yourself in the world of business with courses covering areas such as finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Sample courses include Financial Accounting, Marketing Principles, and Strategic Management.

Course Lists: (Note: Course availability may vary each semester, and some courses may require prior background knowledge for enrolment.)

Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture (Includes Social Science)

Course Offerings: Engage with a wide array of disciplines including sociology, psychology, languages, and media studies. Sample courses include Introduction to Psychology, Globalization and Culture, and Spanish Language and Culture.

Course Lists: (Note: The listed courses serve as a representative sample and may not be available every semester. Prerequisites may apply for certain courses.)

Faculty of Science

Course Offerings: Delve into the realms of science with courses covering biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. Sample courses include Cell Biology, Organic Chemistry, and Astrophysics.

Course Lists: (Note: Course availability is subject to change, and prerequisites may be required for enrollment.)

Please note that not all courses listed are offered every semester, and course availability may vary. Additionally, some courses may have prerequisites, and final course lists are made available during the enrollment process on-site. The provided sample courses offer a glimpse into the diverse academic offerings available at the University of New South Wales. 

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2025 14 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $17,450

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $11,506**

Housing = $5,450***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $17,450

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,688

International Airfare = $1,700††

Local Transportation = $800

Books & Supplies = $40

Visa Fees = $470

Personal expenses = $285†††

Total Costs = $4,983

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Housing Fee = $750

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Thais Oso

Center Director

Thais has over 18 years of education industry experience which include running an American study abroad program in Sydney and working in the exchange programs at one of Australia’s top universities.

Dr. Lesley Turnbull

Academic Director

Dr. Turnbull is the Academic Director of CIEE Sydney and is responsible for all aspects of academics.

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