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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Program Name
Natural Sciences, Exercise Science, Social Science & Liberal Arts
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Location
Dunedin
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Host University
University of Otago
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Term
Spring 1 2020
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Program Dates
Feb 08, 2020 - Jun 18, 2020
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Nov 01, 2019
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Credit
54 - 72 Credit Points
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Eligibility
3.00 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$14,750
- Apply Now
Program Description
Housing is not included in the price above. For more information on housing options and prices, please refer to the housing section.
The university has a strong research emphasis, and many of its programs focus on nature-related sciences, including geology, marine science, ecology, botany, and zoology. Along with programs in the natural sciences, the university has a number of strong programs in the humanities and arts, health sciences, social sciences, among many others. Courses are conducted through the University of Otago and taught in English by host university professors. You will enroll in courses alongside New Zealand and international students. Every student who attends University of Otago begins the program with a four day/ three night Bridging Cultures Orientation Program in exciting Auckland and Rotorua - click on excursions to learn more.
Semester + Semester Programs Available: Students may participate in the Spring + Fall OR the Fall + Spring sessions of this program by selecting their two semesters of interest when submitting the initial ISA online application. For more information about this option, please contact your Dunedin Program Manager.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.00.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
You must have a minimum of two semesters completed at a four-year university at the time of application. Some exceptions may apply, please contact the Program Manager for more information.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Site Specialist will assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception
Airport Reception
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to book your flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
Airport reception is not provided for Intensive Month or J-Term programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Site Specialist will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Bridging Cultures Program
Bridging Cultures Program
The Bridging Cultures Program (BCP) encompasses the ISA on-site orientation which will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. The BCP is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site Offices
On-Site Offices
You will have access to many of the resources and facilities at the host university. ISA resident staff members will hold office hours either at the host university or at another pre-determined location in the city each week.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the BCP, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions
Excursions
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, and some summer sessions.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
Credit Points
54 - 72
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12 - 16
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18 - 24
Academic Information
Sample Courses and Syllabi
- The courses listed below are only a sampling of courses available; please click the "Complete University Course Catalog Listing" link for the full Course Handbook. Requests for syllabi can be made to the Program Manager.
Credit Conversion
- 1 University of Otago course = 18 credit points = 3 - 4 U.S. semester credits (4-6 U.S. quarter credits).
- Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university.
Course Level Recommendations
- ISA offers course level recommendations for the courses listed below. Please note that the course level recommendations are based on the University of Otago paper (course) codes. All Otago paper codes consist of four letter abbreviations detailing the discipline of the paper (such as STAT for statistics) and three numbers. Papers with numbers beginning with 1, 2 or 3 are designed for undergraduate students. A code beginning with 1 represents first-year studies, 2 second-year, and 3 third-year. Papers classified as second and third-year are recommended as upper division. These ISA recommendations are intended to facilitate the determination of course equivalencies by advisors and credential evaluators at your U.S. home institutions.
Online Courses
- ISA does not recommend that you sign up for online courses through your host university. If enrolling in an online course is necessary for you to meet your degree requirements, you may only enroll in one online class. It is your responsibility to confirm with your home university that you will receive credit for online courses taken through your host university.
Transcript
- The transcript from the University of Otago will reflect Credit Points for each course listed below. Please be in touch with your U.S. University regarding credit transfer for this program.
You can either look at the list of subjects by school or alphabetically, or search for a paper by typing in a keyword.
- To search by keyword, type a keyword (ex: "literature") into the "keyword" box. This will bring up all literature courses.
- To search alphabetically or by school, click on the department in which you would like to take classes.
- Click on "papers" to see what courses are offered in that subject.
- List eight different courses (4 preferred and 4 alternative) in order of preference.
Understanding the Course Catalog
- Which Semester is which?
- Semester 1 = February - June term
- Semester 2 = July - November term
- You are only permitted to enroll in courses leveled 100-300. Study abroad students are not eligible for Foundation courses (below 100-level) or anything above the 300 level.
-Course level equivalences per Otago
- Level 100 = Freshman/Sophomore status
- Level 200 = Junior status
- Level 300 = Senior status
- Sports Management classes (SPSX) are not available to study abroad students.
Go to Host University Course Search Here
Go to Course SearchCourses
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Course Disclaimer
- Availability of courses is based on enrollment numbers. All students should seek pre-approval for alternate courses in the event of last minute class cancellations
Support & Funding
U.S. Team
Shaina MacLauchlan
Program Manager, Australia, New Zealand & Vietnam
Shaina's desire to explore the world was sparked while growing up in a small town in Vermont. She obtained a bachelor's degree in Global Studies with minors in History and Political Science at the University of Vermont. During her time at UVM, Shaina studied abroad in Newcastle, Australia. She was able to travel throughout Australia, as well as in New Zealand and Indonesia. These experiences sparked a love for international education, which she pursued after leaving Vermont. Shaina moved to Boston, MA where she worked with international high school students on English language learning trips in the US. She then transitioned to higher education where she worked as the Curriculum Coordinator at Northeastern University. While working at Northeastern, Shaina was able to continue her own education and received a master's degree in Global Studies and International Relations. She is extremely passionate about working with students and is thrilled to be working with the Pacific region where her love for international education started.
DUNEDIN TEAM
Deanne Solomon
Assistant Resident Director, New Zealand
Deanne Solomon
Assistant Resident Director
Dee is Assistant Resident Director in Dunedin, New Zealand. She is originally from Dunedin and studied a BA in Social Work and a Dip Grad in Education at the University of Otago. Her love of travel and working with international students started while working as a Camp Counsellor in Ohio during the summer of 2000. After that she worked in South Korea teaching English for 2 years and then spent 7 years working at a school in the UK having responsibility for international students.Dee’s experience of living and working abroad has giving her a passion for international education. She has been very lucky to have travelled to many countries around the world but now loves showing off Dunedin and the beautiful Otago region to the ISA students.
Funding Your ISA Program
As an ISA participant, you have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad programs. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Scholarships and Grants page.
View all Funding OptionsHousing
Living in ISA housing will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the Kiwi lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor to New Zealand. At the University of Otago you will enjoy an authentic experience with your Dunedin accommodation within local student neighborhoods. All flats are within walking distance of campus and conveniently located to public transit routes. Travel times to the various university buildings generally range between five to 15 minutes depending on housing and class locations. With an open-mind and flexibility, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
Housing is provided on all ISA programs in New Zealand at an additional cost. Apartment accommodation at the University of Auckland starts at $3,850, without meals (subject to change).
Apartment Without Meals
Apartments are a great housing option if you are seeking independence during your time abroad, but also want the support of the university. You will be placed in co-ed flats with other international and local students but will not live in the same flat as other ISA students. You will have your own bedroom within a fully furnished four to six bedroom flat in one of the neighborhoods surrounding campus. Please note many flats will have a Kiwi host (local student) while some may only house international students. Meals and laundry service are not included. Wireless internet and linens are provided in each flat.
Independent Housing
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option you will be responsible for your own housing during the program and will forgo any ISA assistance for housing matters.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
ISA excursions allow you to explore the diverse, distinct, and gorgeous landscape of New Zealand that you may not have the opportunity to visit on your own. While abroad, you will have the chance to go on a multi-day trip (the ISA Bridging Cultures Program at the beginning of your program), a weekend trip, and two day trips to the following destinations.
Auckland and Rotorua & Bridging Cultures Program
Kick-off your semester abroad with ISA during our four-day Bridging Cultures Program (BCP) in exciting Auckland and Rotorua. The BCP integrates our ISA on-site orientation with exciting activities aimed at introducing Kiwi culture, helping you define your study abroad goals, and encouraging you to meet other students. Activities include visit to Hobbiton, a traditional ceremony and hangi dinner at a Maori marae (meeting house), a visit to the Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland hot springs and a dip in Green and Blue lakes, a stop at Hamilton Gardens, the opportunity to learn the world-famous Haka, and most importantly, an informative, interactive, and memorable start to your study abroad experience.
Auckland and Rotorua & Bridging Cultures Program
Kick-off your semester abroad with ISA during our four-day Bridging Cultures Program (BCP) in exciting Auckland and Rotorua. The BCP integrates our ISA on-site orientation with exciting activities aimed at introducing Kiwi culture, helping you define your study abroad goals, and encouraging you to meet other students. Activities include visit to Hobbiton, a traditional ceremony and hangi dinner at a Maori marae (meeting house), a visit to the Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland hot springs and a dip in Green and Blue lakes, a stop at Hamilton Gardens, the opportunity to learn the world-famous Haka, and most importantly, an informative, interactive, and memorable start to your study abroad experience.
Catlins
Located approximately one hour south from Dunedin lies the stunning region of the Catlins. This region hosts some of New Zealand's rarest animals including yellow eyed penguins and fur seals. During this day excursion, you will have a chance to see many of the regions highlights including waterfalls, wildlife, and majestic geological wonders.
Catlins
Located approximately one hour south from Dunedin lies the stunning region of the Catlins. This region hosts some of New Zealand's rarest animals including yellow eyed penguins and fur seals. During this day excursion, you will have a chance to see many of the regions highlights including waterfalls, wildlife, and majestic geological wonders.
North Otago Region and Lake Tekapo
You will spend the weekend learning about the Otago regions unique geological history and wildlife by exploring the northern part of the region, followed by stargazing at the night sky and the unique constellations, while lounging in the hot springs. On this overnight excursion students will discover a glimpse of the majestic South Island landscape and what makes this area so unique to New Zealand.
North Otago Region and Lake Tekapo
You will spend the weekend learning about the Otago regions unique geological history and wildlife by exploring the northern part of the region, followed by stargazing at the night sky and the unique constellations, while lounging in the hot springs. On this overnight excursion students will discover a glimpse of the majestic South Island landscape and what makes this area so unique to New Zealand.
Queenstown
During this excursion you will get to experience one of New Zealand's wonders and have the opportunity to participate in some incredible activities. Starting off with a visit to Arrowtown to pan for gold, you will get to experience for yourself the ways in which early settlers sought to find their fortunes in gold. Next, you will visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park, a rehabilitation center for native birds and get to see the elusive (and nocturnal) Kiwi bird. On the way home, you will travel to Naseby and try your hand at curling, a Scottish sport that is integral to Otago's heritage.
Queenstown
During this excursion you will get to experience one of New Zealand's wonders and have the opportunity to participate in some incredible activities. Starting off with a visit to Arrowtown to pan for gold, you will get to experience for yourself the ways in which early settlers sought to find their fortunes in gold. Next, you will visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park, a rehabilitation center for native birds and get to see the elusive (and nocturnal) Kiwi bird. On the way home, you will travel to Naseby and try your hand at curling, a Scottish sport that is integral to Otago's heritage.