College of Engineering, Science and Environment International Study Experiences

student with people

Students studying at the University of Newcastle have the opportunity to undertake a global experience be it overseas or virtually by enrolling in SCIE3600.

SCIE3600 provides students with the chance to broaden their educational and cultural experience through participation in an organised out-of-country activity, such as an internship, work experience, period of volunteering, College-authorised study tour or workshop from a recognised institute. An international placement allows students to expand the theoretical knowledge and skills developed in their undergraduate program, and apply knowledge and skills in an external and international context.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible to enrol in SCIE3600, students must have successfully completed at least 80 units of study at 1000 level. To check your eligibility, contact your Program Advisor: programadvice@newcastle.edu.au

Note: Students are not permitted to enrol in SCIE3600 in conjunction with a full semester exchange experience.

Admission to this course is based on merit and the number of places available may be restricted. For more information, refer to our student process flowchart.

When is a good time to plan my trip?

An ideal time to undertake your overseas activity is the end of semester 2 in your second year of study (Nov – Feb) or semester break in your third year (July).

Note: An Expression of Interest (EOI) should be submitted at least 3 months prior to travel (see How Do I Apply? below).

How do I organise my activity?

SCIE3600 is a student-driven course, meaning students gain access to this course via individual initiative. Students are expected to organise their own activity as well as travel plans. It is the student's responsibility to provide the Course Coordinator with a written brief of their proposed activity for formal approval, before commencing this course via an online expression of interest form.

Once approved, students will need to apply directly to the overseas provider / company and arrange all travel.

If you do not have an activity in mind, existing university-approved programs are in place and can be found here.

On commencing this course, but before starting the overseas activity, students will need to complete a health and safety and risk induction. Full information on this compulsory component will be available in the course outline provided by the School.

Do I have to pay?

Students will be required to cover the course cost of SCIE3600, a University of Newcastle Tuition Fee (10 units).

Students will also be required to meet all costs incurred for their overseas experience including payment to an overseas provider / company if applicable.

What Financial Assistance is available?

Students may be able to access financial assistance including the OS-HELP Loan and/or Global Traveller Grant:

OS-HELP: is an Australian Government Loan  that allows eligible Australian students to access up to $8295 to undertake some of their study overseas. OS-HELP is applied to your HECS debt and standard conditions apply. OS-HELP can be used for a range of expenses such as airfares, accommodation, and any other travel expenses. Not available for Virtual opportunities.

Examples of Overseas Activities through SCIE3600

  • Rainforest conservation in Madagascar or Peru
  • Sea Turtle and Coastal Conservation in Mexico
  • Development projects in India, Mexico, South Africa or Vietnam
  • Human Rights programs in Argentina, Cambodia, Ghana or Morocco

How do I apply?

To register your interest, complete the brief SCIE3600 International Study Experience Expression of Interest Survey.

Expressions of interest will be accepted up until Friday 1 December 2023 for the Summer Term enrolment.

  • NB: You can expect to receive advice of approval to be enrolled in SCIE3600 within three (3) weeks of submitting your EOI.
  • Letters to support your OS-HELP application will only be provided after your EOI has been approved.

For more information on SCIE3600, please read the course outline.

Find out more:

When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:30pm - 3.30pm
Where:
Over the phone or in person (Callaghan Campus)
Click here to book an appointment

SCIE3600 is a great opportunity for students to gain practical experience in their chosen field overseas. It opens up a range of opportunities that you would not be able to experience in the classroom. Besides from gaining work experience and the ability to travel, you will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the culture and society you live, and the intricacies of your chosen work assignment. By completing my internships in the Philippines I have learned about the nature of international development, the dynamics of foreign aid, how policy reform occurs and how these changes are implemented at a local level.

Lisa in Philippines

Lisa Butson, Bachelor of Development Studies