Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia

Arts + Sciences (University of Melbourne)

Study Program

Tentative Dates

-

23 weeks

Costs

Credit

16 semester hours

24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Spend a semester at the University of Melbourne, Australia’s top-ranked institution, in the heart of one of the world’s most livable cities. Known for its excellence in teaching and research, the University of Melbourne offers an outstanding academic experience across a wide range of disciplines. Melbourne itself is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its arts, sports, and food scenes, providing the perfect backdrop for both academic success and adventure.

Whether you're pursuing a major in sciences, arts, business, or any other field, you’ll find the University of Melbourne’s diverse course offerings and dynamic campus life enriching. Students have access to more than 1,300 undergraduate subjects and are encouraged to explore Melbourne’s rich cultural landscape through a variety of excursions and hands-on learning experiences. With its proximity to natural wonders like the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island, Melbourne offers the best of both urban living and outdoor exploration.

Outside the classroom, all courses will be complemented with activities and excursions organized by CIEE. These experiences extend beyond the city to enhance your classroom learning and provide intercultural understanding.

Unique Experiences

Go wildlife spotting at Phillip Island

Where you’ll see penguins waddling along the shore and koalas lounging in the trees

Lose yourself in the royal botanic gardens

A sprawling oasis right in the city, perfect for picnics, jogging, or just soaking up the lush scenery

Indulge in Melbourne’s diverse food scene

from the latest foodie trends in the queen victoria market to hidden rooftop bars with jaw-dropping views of the skyline

40+

live music venues keep the city buzzing with performances every night of the week

1,200+

street art murals line Melbourne’s famous laneways, making it an open-air gallery

2nd

most livable city in the world according to the economist’s global livability index

Experience
  • melbourne phillip island nobbies
  • Melbourne Australia beach huts
  • University of Melbourne

Your Destination

Melbourne stands as Australia's cultural capital and one of the world’s most vibrant, dynamic cities. Renowned for its eclectic blend of art, music, and cuisine, Melbourne strikes a perfect harmony between cosmopolitan life and natural beauty. A true melting pot, the city brings together global influences, creating an exciting hub for culinary adventures, live performances, and creative expression.

Stroll through Melbourne's iconic laneways, where street art, hidden cafés, and boutique shops create an atmosphere that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Visit the bustling Queen Victoria Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, where you can savor international flavors or discover handmade crafts. With a lively festival scene that includes the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, Melbourne offers unforgettable experiences for everyone.

Nature lovers will find Melbourne to be a perfect gateway to some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes. Take a day trip along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, visit the penguins on Phillip Island, or relax in the serene Royal Botanic Gardens. Melbourne’s vibrant beaches, like St Kilda, are perfect for unwinding, while the nearby Yarra Valley offers world-renowned wineries and gourmet experiences.

Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an adventurer, Melbourne invites you to explore its hidden gems and make the most of its unparalleled mix of urban energy and outdoor escapades.

melbourne great ocean walk sign post

Excursions & Activities

Ample activities and daytrips will be offered to immerse yourself in Australia’s culture and historical heritage.  

  • Savor award-winning wines and indulge in gourmet delights as you explore the Yarra Valley. Stroll through scenic vineyards, sample handcrafted artisan chocolates, and experience the region's finest flavors.
  • Wind your way along Australia’s most iconic coastal road, the Great Ocean Road. The towering Twelve Apostles, lush rainforests, and quaint seaside towns await. Along the way, uncover the secrets of ancient geological formations and maritime history.
  • Meet Australia’s unique wildlife up close at Healesville Sanctuary. Learn about conservation efforts, watch captivating animal feedings, and connect with the natural world in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
  • Witness the magical Penguin Parade at sunset, stroll through the Koala Conservation Centre, and soak up stunning coastal views – all at the Phillip Island Nature Parks. A perfect blend of wildlife and environmental science in one unforgettable day.
  • Dive into Australian history, indigenous culture, and natural sciences at the Melbourne Museum. Right next door, the grand Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will leave you awestruck with its Victorian architecture and fascinating past.

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Australia vs. New Zealand Study Abroad: Which is Better for You?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

You’ve decided to study abroad in the Oceania region. Congrats! You’ve taken the first big step in your study abroad journey. Next up? Choosing between Australia vs. New Zealand study... keep reading

From CIEE

The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Australia

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Known as the Land Down Under, studying abroad in Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the country’s stunning coastline and its indigenous history to its modern, multicultural vibe, Australia has... keep reading

From CIEE

Why Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia: Top 5 Reasons

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

As the cultural epicenter of Australia, and one of the country’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, Melbourne is an incredible place for a study abroad adventure! From its world-class arts... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

The University of Melbourne is renowned for its academic rigor and cutting-edge research. As Australia’s top university, ranked 13th in the world by the QS World University Rankings 2024, it offers students access to a broad range of disciplines, including STEM, environmental studies, and business. You’ll take classes alongside local and international students, benefiting from a global perspective in a dynamic learning environment.

Students enroll in 4 courses per semester, earning 16 U.S. semester credits. With more than 500 pre-approved subjects and the flexibility to choose courses across multiple faculties, students can tailor their academic experience to fit their major and interests. Courses are taught in English, with a focus on independent learning, critical thinking, and collaboration.

GPA

3.0

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Program open to sophomore year. 

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. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All students in the Arts and Sciences program at the University of Melbourne must enroll in 4 UM courses for a total of 16 U.S. semester credits. 

Program Credit

Total credit: 16 U.S. semester/24 quarter credits

Course Credit

University of Melbourne courses: 4 U.S. semester credits/6 quarter credits; 170 notional 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. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

The academic environment at the University of Melbourne reflects a dynamic blend of traditional teaching methods and contemporary pedagogical approaches. Lectures are typically led by instructors who foster discussions and encourage active participation from students, like the structure often seen in US higher education institutions.

To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel out of Melbourne when classes are in session and plan trips for the long weekends.

Class Format

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. 

Instruction is supported and augmented online by the learning management system, Canvas. 

Grading

Assessment at the University of Melbourne is rigorous, with continuous assessment methods that might include weekly quizzes, essays, project reports, a midterm, tutorial/seminar participation and performance, in-class presentations, and practical and final exams. Students can expect a combination of individual assignments and group projects, designed to develop both independent and collaborative skills. 

CIEE reports final grades for host institution courses using recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, following a predetermined grade conversion scale. The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used.

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. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

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. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers more than 1,300 undergraduate subjects available to study abroad and exchange students. Of these, more than 500 subjects are ‘preapproved’, without any prerequisites for enrollment. The full course catalog can be seen here. See also the handy ‘What can I study Guide’ for links to disciplines and popular subjects.

When searching for courses in the University of Melbourne Handbook, please note that a University of Melbourne “subject” is equivalent to a U.S. “course”, and that “course” refers to a major or program of study.
The following is a list of sample academic fields that students can study at the University of Melbourne: 

Agriculture, land and food 

  • Agriculture
  • Agricultural economics and agribusiness
  • Animal science and management
  • Biotechnology
  • Food science
  • Forest ecosystem science
  • Genetics and breeding
  • Geography
  • Landscape management
  • Natural resource management
  • Plant sciences
  • Soil science
  • Urban horticulture
  • Viticulture and wine technology

Architecture

  • Architecture, design and the built environment
  • Architectural history
  • Design
  • Landscape architecture
  • Property and construction
  • Real estate
  • Urban design
  • Urban planning and development

Arts

  • Cinema and screen studies
  • Classics
  • Creative writing
  • Criminology
  • Cultural studies
  • Development studies
  • English literary studies
  • Gender studies
  • History
  • History and philosophy of science
  • Indigenous arts management
  • International studies
  • Linguistics and applied linguistics
  • Philosophy
  • Political science
  • Public policy
  • Social theory
  • Socio-legal studies
  • Sociology
  • Theatre studies

Australian studies 

  • Architecture
  • Arts and culture
  • Business and economics
  • Environments and sustainability
  • History
  • Indigenous education and culture
  • Landscape
  • Literature
  • Media
  • Politics
  • Wildlife

Business and economics 

  • Accounting
  • Actuarial studies
  • Commerce
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • International business
  • Management
  • Marketing

Communications and Culture

  • Media and communications
  • Asia Pacific media systems
  • Creative writing
  • Culture and media
  • Editing and publishing
  • Global media
  • Language and media
  • Marketing communications

Computer science and information technology 

  • Computer science
  • Geomatics
  • Informatics
  • Information systems
  • Software engineering
  • Spatial systems
  • Telecommunications engineering

Education 

  • Creativity and learning communities
  • Creativity, young people and learning
  • Deafness and communication
  • Early childhood education
  • Elementary education
  • Professional practice and school observation
  • Secondary education
  • Sports coaching: theory and practice *
  • Understanding knowledge
  • Youth, citizenship and identity

Engineering 

  • Biomedical
  • Chemical and biomolecular
  • Civil
  • Computer science and software
  • Electrical and electronic (including telecommunications)
  • Engineering management
  • Environmental
  • Geomatics
  • Mechanical and manufacturing
  • Mechatronics
  • Mining

Environmental studies

  • Conservation and ecology
  • Development technologies
  • Ecology
  • Energy studies
  • Environmental law
  • Environmental policy
  • Environmental science
  • Environmental studies
  • Forest ecosystem science
  • Surveying
  • Water resources management

Humanities and social sciences

  • Ancient world studies
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology

Media communications theory 

  • Media futures and new technologies
  • Media law
  • Media, politics and society
  • Media studies
  • Online communications

Music 

  • Ensemble performance**
  • Introductory music subjects
  • Music history
  • Music language (theory)
  • Music performance***

Psychology 

  • Cognitive psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Personality and social psychology
  • Quantitative psychology

Sciences 

  • Agricultural science
  • Atmosphere and ocean sciences
  • Biochemistry and molecular biology
  • Bioengineering systems
  • Biotechnology
  • Cell and developmental biology
  • Chemical systems
  • Chemistry
  • Civil systems
  • Climate and weather
  • Computer science
  • Domestic animal science
  • Ecology and evolutionary biology
  • Electrical systems
  • Environmental science
  • Food science
  • Genetics
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • Geomatics
  • Human structure and function
  • Marine biology
  • Mathematical physics
  • Mathematics and statistics
  • Mechanical systems
  • Microbiology, infection and immunology
  • Neuroscience
  • Pathology
  • Pharmacology
  • Physics
  • Physiology
  • Plant science
  • Psychology
  • Science informatics
  • Software systems
  • Zoology

Visual and performing arts 

  • Community cultural development
  • Dance
  • Fine art
  • Music performance
  • Production

*Single course only. 
**Audition required for some ensembles. 
***Audition required. 
Full list of restricted courses and off-limits subject areas here.

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:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • 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 Fall 2025 23 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $25,850

*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 = $17,356**

Housing = $8,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $25,850

Estimated Costs

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

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.

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

Joanna Shaw

Center Director

Joanna began her career in the Australian equivalent of the Peace corps posted to the Indian Himalayas working for the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan refugee community, and went on...

Dr. Lesley Turnbull

Academic Director

Dr. Turnbull holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Cornell University and has overseen a diverse array of academic programs in CIEE’s Pacific Rim region.

Maria Paz Montes Monsalve

Program Coordinator

María Paz Montes-Monsalve is an experienced professional in the international education field, with a background on translation and research.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info