South Pacific
Australia Studies Centre, Sydney, Australia (CCCU bestsemester.com) (Open to all majors)
Since Spring 2004, the CCCU has partnered with the Wesley Institute in Sydney, Australia to offer the Australia Studies Centre. Throughout the semester, students study theology, global justice issues affecting Australia, Indigenous cultures and the arts. Every student is required to take the courses "The View from Australia: Issues in Religion, Politics, Economics & Cultural Values" and "Indigenous History, Cultures & Identity." Additionally, students choose electives from Wesley Institute offerings in theology/ministry, music, drawing/graphic design, drama, dance, dance movement therapy, and counseling. Students live with Australian families and volunteer with local community service providers. In order to experience the various aspects of Australian culture, students spend time in the Australian capital, Canberra; travel to the edge of the Australian Outback; and spend the last week of the semester connecting with the Maori people in New Zealand. Homepage
Creation Care Studies Program, South Pacific (Open to all majors)
This semester-long program explores biblical stewardship, first hand, as students study environmental issues in New Zealand. Designed for non-science majors, the program includes opportunities for study, reflection, research, and travel. During the program you will experience community in motion as you travel with a group of students for four months to the South Pacific nation of New Zealand . Rigorous classes will give you direct field experiences and confront you with current world issues. CCSP readily awaits adventure seeking, biblically minded students, who want to take on the challenge of learning how to care for God’s earth and all its creatures—both human and non-human. This program is open to students with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Homepage
Houghton Down Under: Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand (Houghton College) (Open to all majors) (Fall only)
In this fall semester program, Houghton Down Under introduces students to Australian and New Zealand cultures and communities; including their art, music, film, history, and literature. This program is full of adventures and great opportunities including city service projects, hiking in varied ecosystems, swimming in the South Pacific, and learning with local teachers--all amidst spectacular scenery, fantastic flora and fauna, and friendly people. In this travel semester, you will live and study in three urban centers in two countries. Students will stay in different types of accommodations ranging from college dorms to hostels, hotels, and homestays. Students will be involved in service learning with a variety of agencies including the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, local churches, and government councils.
The courses are: Community and Society in Australia and New Zealand (4). Art and Music in Australia and New Zealand (4). Australia and New Zealand Culture Through Film (4). Engaging Australian and New Zealand Culture (4).
This program is open to students with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Homepage