Arts + Sciences (University of Melbourne)
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
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.
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
Australia vs. New Zealand Study Abroad: Which is Better for You?
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
The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Australia
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
Why Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia: Top 5 Reasons
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 & Meals
Housings
Our housing ensures students are always well-connected to the best of the city. Set in welcoming neighborhoods, students will enjoy a peaceful and secure living environment. Everything you need is within walking distance from their home, including various restaurants, supermarkets, a pharmacy, and easily accessible public transport options.
Standard Housing: Includes a room in a shared apartment/residence hall or homestay.
- Shared Apartment/Residence Hall: Live with other international students in a centrally located shared apartment or residence hall, just minutes from the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus. You’ll have access to Wi-Fi and all utilities, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and comfortable lounge spaces. This option gives you the independence to manage your daily routine while still enjoying the social aspect of living with fellow students.
- Homestay: Immerse yourself in Melbourne’s diverse culture by living with a local family. Melbourne is a multicultural city, and students will stay with families from various nationalities, including Melburnians. Homestays are located within a 45-minute to 1-hour commute by public transportation to the University of Melbourne’s main campus. You’ll share daily life with your host family while enjoying breakfast and dinner together. This is a great opportunity to practice your conversational skills and gain firsthand insight into the local culture, all while having the freedom to explore the city on your own.
Meals
Shared Apartment/Residence Hall: While meals are not included, students can prepare their own meals in the fully furnished kitchen. Melbourne has a vibrant food scene with fresh local fruits, vegetables, and meats readily available. Students can also explore the myriad restaurants in the areas surrounding the residence hall.
Homestay: Students who live with homestay families receive two meals daily (breakfast and dinner). The third meal and/or any snacks are on the student. Students can make use of the kitchen space at the homestay.
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.
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.
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 | Start Date TBD* | End Date TBD* |
*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.
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.
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
Our Staff
Joanna Shaw
Center Director
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
1
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.
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