Semester in Auckland

GPA

2.7

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Program open to sophomore year. 

Requirements

All Semester in Auckland students at the University of Auckland take 3-5 courses for a total of 12 -18 semester credits, choosing from:

• 3 courses taught in English at the University of Auckland (required)
• 1-2 CIEE Courses (Optional)

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-18 U.S. semester/18-27 quarter credits.

Course Credit

• CIEE courses: 3 U.S. semester credits/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours
• University of Auckland courses: 4 U.S. semester credits/6 quarter credits; 150 notional hours

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, through the Canvas Learning Management System.

CIEE courses, also augmented by the Canvas Learning Management System, are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. Similar to classes at U.S. institutions, students should expect to spend an average of two hours of preparation and study for each hour in CIEE classes.
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 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 taught at the CIEE Center are typically for CIEE students only. Host institution classes include both local and international students. Attendance in CIEE classes is strictly enforced, both for classes and required co-curricular excursions. Instruction is supported and augmented online by the learning management system Canvas for both host institution and CIEE courses.

In addition to classroom-based learning, students can participate in co-curricular opportunities such as field trips, guest lectures, and workshops, which further enhance their understanding of course content while offering insights into the local culture and academic environment.

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. For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on attendance, class engagement, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. The U.S. grading scale of A – F is used.

Language of Instruction

English