auckland-lion-rock-trail-sunset
Auckland, New Zealand

Arts & Sciences (University of Auckland)

New for Fall 2025!

Study Program

Tentative Dates

-

19 weeks

Costs

Credit

16 semester hours

24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Take your studies to Auckland, one of New Zealand’s largest metropolitan cities, where you’ll pursue a world-class education at the University of Auckland, CIEE’s esteemed partner institution. At the University of Auckland, you'll join a diverse community of students from around the globe, learning from renowned faculty and engaging in cutting-edge research. With a strong focus on practical learning and industry connections, the university prepares you for success in your career. All your courses will be complemented with activities and excursions organized by CIEE beyond the city to enhance your classroom learning and provide intercultural understanding.

In your free time, you’ll have ever opportunity to explore all Auckland has to offer. With its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and lush rainforests, Auckland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the vibrant city center, filled with trendy cafés, art galleries, and bustling markets. Or venture beyond the city to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula, the Bay of Islands, and the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Caves. 

Unique Experiences

Immerse yourself in the rich Maori culture ever present in New Zealand

from tours to cultural performances

Explore the Hauraki Gulf

by taking a ferry to one of the man islands in the Hauraki Gulf, such as Waiheke Island or Rangitoto Island, for stunning beaches, hiking trails, and wineries

Go whale watching

to spot majestic humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins in their natural habitat

50+

VOLCANIC CONES DOT THE AUCKLAND LANDSCAPE, OFFERING STUNNING VIEWS AND UNIQUE HIKING EXPERIENCES

30+

REGIONAL PARKS AND NATURE RESERVES, OFFERING A VARIETY OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS.

14

BEACHES WITHIN EASY REACH OF THE CITY CENTER, PERFECT FOR SWIMMING, SURFING, AND SUNBATHING

Experience
  • auckland sky tower view from city streets
  • auckland-bayswater-marina-boats

Your Destination

Auckland, the "City of Sails," is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city nestled between two harbors, offering a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. With its diverse culture, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Auckland is the ideal destination for international students seeking a memorable study abroad experience. 

Explore the bustling city center, filled with trendy shops, cafés, and restaurants. Visit the Auckland Museum to learn about the city's history and culture or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of wine tasting and relaxation. For outdoor enthusiasts, Auckland offers endless opportunities for hiking, sailing, surfing, and exploring the region's volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests. 

The city's vibrant arts scene is showcased in numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. Experience the thrill of live performances, from classical concerts to contemporary dance. Auckland is also a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines to satisfy every taste, from fresh seafood to international delicacies. 

The Culture

auckland hobbiton door

Excursions & Activities

Ample activities and day trips will be offered to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s culture and historical heritage and may include: 

  • Witnessing the passion of New Zealand's national rugby team, the All Blacks, by attending a match and experiencing the electric atmosphere, the famous haka, and the skill and sportsmanship of these legendary athletes 
  • Learning about Māori history, traditions, and stories from knowledgeable Māori guides while exploring significant sites around Auckland to gain insights into the Māori connection to the land 
  • Stepping into the magical world of Middle-Earth at Hobbiton, the iconic movie set from The Lord of the Rings, to explore the hobbit holes, gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn 
  • Embarking on a rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Eden, one of Auckland's iconic volcanic cones, and enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the city, harbor, and surrounding countryside 
  • Getting up close with New Zealand's unique wildlife at Auckland Zoo and discovering native species like kiwi birds and kea parrots, while learning about conservation efforts to protect endangered animals 
  • Hiking to the summit of Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island offering panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf, to explore the lava fields and ancient craters, and enjoy a leisurely picnic on the beach 
  • Discovering the iconic kiwi bird at the Otorohanga Kiwi House, and exploring the breathtaking Waitomo Caves, famous for their glowworm displays 

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

Study Abroad New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Known for its rich Māori culture, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and top-ranked universities, New Zealand study abroad is a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. From its unparalleled natural beauty to its reputation... keep reading

From CIEE

Why Study Abroad in Auckland: Top 5 Reasons

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Are you ready for a study abroad adventure that will change your life? Picture yourself strolling along pristine beaches, hiking through lush rainforests, and immersing yourself in a vibrant cultural... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

The University of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most prestigious university, is recognized for its academic excellence and robust research output. Established in 1883, the university is consistently ranked in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings, and it offers a wide range of courses across its eight faculties, including arts, business, engineering, law, sciences, and health sciences. Students benefit from Auckland’s vibrant academic environment, with courses designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.

Students have the opportunity to enroll in 4 courses at the University of Auckland, earning a total of 16 U.S. semester credits. These courses span a diverse array of subjects, providing students with a comprehensive and globally recognized education. Among other subjects, Students can explore specialized courses in Māori and Pacific Studies, Sustainability, Population Health, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship.  

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. 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 Auckland must enroll in 4 U.A. 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 Auckland courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 150 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 structure at the University of Auckland reflects a blend of traditional lecture formats and interactive tutorials or lab sessions. Similar to U.S. higher education systems, students are expected to actively participate in class discussions and complete assignments independently. Classes are scheduled from Monday to Friday, with lectures supplemented by smaller group tutorials or lab components. 

Attendance is important, and students must be present for around 80% of face-to-face sessions, similar to attendance expectations in U.S. universities. Course material is typically made available online.  

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

Class Format

At the University of Auckland, courses typically combine lectures with tutorials or labs, providing a well-rounded academic experience. Lectures cover the core material, while tutorials and labs give students the opportunity to engage in small group discussions, hands-on work, or field-based learning. Classes are held 2-3 times per week, from Monday through Friday, and are designed to balance independent study with collaborative learning. Instructors often encourage students to think critically and apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations, aligning closely with U.S. academic practices. 

New Zealand universities emphasize student independence, requiring self-motivation and discipline. Daily assignments and readings are a common part of the academic routine, and students are expected to engage with these materials beyond the classroom in order to actively participate in discussions. This independent approach may demand more study time than students are used to at their home institutions. 

Courses are supported by online platforms, with the University of Auckland using Canvas as its learning management system. This platform provides access to course materials, assignments, and communication with instructors.  

Grading

Assessment at the University of Auckland 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 AUCKLAND

The University of Auckland offers a broad selection of courses each semester, covering a wide range of academic disciplines. Students can explore the course offerings by faculty in the Course Catalog. Draft syllabi, including course descriptions, are available for review here.

Students can opt to take courses across a wide range of academic fields, including:  

  • Arts
  • Business
  • Creative Arts and Industries*
  • Education and Social Work
  • Engineering
  • Law**
  • Medical and Health Sciences***
  • Sciences

*Only students majoring in these subjects at their home institutions may enroll in 100-level courses.

**Limited courses available to non-law majors.  

*** Study abroad students may not enroll in courses offered in Medicine, Surgery, Pharmacy, Nursing and Optometry.  

Courses with restricted enrollment listed 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 19 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $21,550

*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.

Educational Costs = $14,956*

Housing = $6,400**

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $21,550

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

*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

Brett Armstrong

Center Director

Brett’s passion for global education has been shaped by a lifelong connection to academia and travel. Raised in San Diego, California, by an academic family, his mother’s dedication as a...

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