Study Abroad in Sydney & Fiji: Special Programs

Aboriginal studies

Anyone with an interest in ancient cultures, anthropology or cultural studies can take advantage of Macquarie University’s Aboriginal Studies program including field study. Students can look at the way Aboriginal religious rituals have translated into contemporary movements for land rights in Aboriginal Australia.

Australian studies

Students interested in the history and culture of Australia can take advantage of Macquarie’s special program in Australian Studies. Look at the myths and reality of convict culture in a course on the European settlement of Australia, the issue of nuclear trade in the Pacific in a course on Australia in international politics or study leading Australian writers in a contemporary Australian literature and culture course.

Internships

Internships provide students with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience within a relevant organization while completing their studies. These are normally unpaid positions with companies near the University or a short train or bus ride away. Students are placed in positions related to their major and/or interests and are assessed by visits, interviews, reports and an assignment.

The internship is worth 3 or 6 credits. Students are required to work 10 or 20 hours per week, under the direction of a workplace supervisor and generally will work on a specific project within the organization. The student may then choose to enroll in either one or two additional courses offered by Macquarie University to build up a full-time course load. Students who are enrolled in the 6-credit internship plus one additional course will satisfy visa requirements.

Students accepted into the Internship program must have a GPA of 3.0. Students with a GPA below 3.0 but with significant work experience may be considered.

Past internship placements have covered the following areas:

  • Communications
  • Media & journalism
  • Human Resources
  • Business Administration
  • NGO projects (non-governmental organizations)
  • Marketing & Public Relations
  • Website development
  • Environmental sciences

Please note that all students interested in doing an internship will need to complete an additional application form and submit this, together with an Australian style resumé and cover letter to the Internships team. More details are available on request from the AIFS Admissions Officer at (800) 727-2437.