Information for term Australian Wildlife Conservation From Land to Sea
Application deadline, and cost information.
Overview
Click to OpenStep into the shoes of a conservationist in one of the most scenic and biodiverse destinations on Earth.
Observe unique Australian wildlife in the marine, coastal, and bushland ecosystems in and around Sydney alongside a local guide and environmentalist. In this beautiful waterfront city, study the science behind extinction and the impact of human activity on Australia’s ecosystems. Conduct field work and collect data for analyzing and evaluating sustainability strategies implemented in urban coastal cities. Volunteer in bush regeneration and see firsthand the measurable effects of ecological restoration.
Also explore Australia’s culture, heritage, and way of life. Appreciate Aboriginal culture in Kamay Botany Bay—participate in a traditional ochre ceremony and listen to stories about the first nation’s people and the Dreaming, or creation, of this land. Meet up with local youth in Sydney and work together in conservation activities. Enjoy “only in Australia” experiences—pet a kangaroo, go surfing with Aussies, witness surreal sunsets over the Opera House, practice Tim Tam slams, go on bushwalks, and return home saying words like lollies and ute.
The Takeaways
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Real-world Experience
Collect data on Australian wildlife on land and in water, assess threats to ecosystems, and explore measures to protect biodiversity. Come home ready to apply your sustainability insights to future studies and environmental initiatives.
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Credentials For Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, a portfolio of work to showcase a Conservation Campaign, and service-learning hours documenting your engagement with the community.
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Life Skills And New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and friends of different backgrounds from across the U.S.
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Hours Of Expert Instruction
45 -
Hours Of Service-learning In The Community
12 -
Life-changing Experience
1
Location & Culture
Click to Open
The Destination
Welcome to Sydney, surrounded by World Heritage wilderness areas and pristine coastlines.
Sydney’s white-sand beaches, unique ecosystems, and sustainable urban landscapes make it the perfect outdoor learning lab. Located in New South Wales, with its iconic Opera House and majestic Harbour Bridge, Sydney is Australia’s largest and most diverse city. Over one-third of its population was born overseas! The vibrant multicultural scene offers an incredible array of international restaurants and shops. Be sure to visit the bustling Paddy’s Market and sample all kinds of treats at Spice Alley!
Sydney is also home to world-class wildlife parks—excellent places to observe native Australian animals—and the Sea Life Aquarium with the largest Great Barrier Reef exhibit in the world. A third of Australia’s bird species live in the ancient rainforest of the Blue Mountains World Heritage area, one of your excursions. Another trip will take you to the region of Northern Beaches, known for its lush, green national parks, iconic beaches, and scenic coastline. Here, experience a menagerie of wildlife, vivid aquamarine waters, and seaside walks with so much natural beauty to discover!
CULTURAL AWARENESS
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.
Daily Life
Click to OpenDaily Life
Monday–Friday
Each day offers a balance between interactive instruction and cultural activities with time on your own, too. Morning classes and afternoon activities may swap places.
- Breakfast at the dorms
- Hands-on classes with expert instructors and conservationists
- Lunch in the community or in the field with your fellow Global Navigators
- Outdoor activities, community service, or cultural workshops
- Dinner at the dorms or out in the community
Weekends
- Overnight or day excursions to top destinations
- Quality time with friends
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Dorms, shared rooms with other Global Navigators
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1 Program Leader for every 12 students and support from local staff
Weekly Learning Goals
Week 1
Click to OpenSettle into Sydney. Survey wildlife along Sydney’s coastline and identify iconic marine species. Develop an understanding of conservation strategies in coastal cities. Collect and analyze data to discover the importance of biodiversity.
Week 2
Click to OpenAssess the effectiveness of local conservation strategies implemented in Australia. Explore the Blue Mountains and go snorkeling in the Cabbage Tree Aquatic Reserve as you investigate the effects of human activity on ecosystems.
Week 3
Click to OpenParticipate in bush regeneration with the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Develop and present a report on Australia’s wildlife conservation initiatives. Discuss the role of biodiversity conservation in our daily lives, the needs of healthy ecosystems, and the needs of society.
Activities
Click to OpenSample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, and other iconic Australian marsupials. Even take a selfie with a smiling quokka.
- Work up an appetite for a beachside Aussie barbecue after a surfing lesson with local legends. It doesn’t matter if you’re a kook—the word for “beginner” down under!
- Take a ferry to Manly Beach and visit the heritage-listed Quarantine Station at the Sydney Harbour National Park. Take in the stunning views while learning how migration has impacted the Australian environment and society.
- Wander through the eucalyptus forests of the Blue Mountains—they'll take your breath away! In this magical setting, listen to the Aboriginal legend of the Three Sisters.
- Snorkel in the Cabbage Tree Aquatic Reserve amongst 200 species of fish. Try to catch a glimpse of a dusky whaler, blue groper, eagle ray, and green turtle.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Dates & Fees
Click to OpenDates & Fees
ELIGIBILITY
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our Scholarship page.
- This program involves engaging in moderate- to high-intensity physical activities, such as hiking, snorkeling, and extended observational time outdoors. Ability to swim is not required but strongly encouraged to enjoy the program and location at its fullest.
APPLICATION FEE
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More Questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Session I 2023 3 weeks | Apr 2, 2023 | Jun 18, 2023 | Jul 8, 2023 |
$5,750 |
| Summer Session II 2023 3 weeks | Apr 2, 2023 | Jul 9, 2023 | Jul 29, 2023 |
$5,750 |
Looking for funding?
What's Included
Click to OpenWhat's Included
Ready to change your life?
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