Language Requirement: None
Academic Standing by Program Start: Sophomore or above
Location: Oceania, Australia
GPA: 2.5

Program Overview

In this program, you will enroll for courses at USC Sunshine Coast, a public Australian university serving 12,000 students. USC is growing fast and offers a large variety of programs all including hands-on training, practical experience, and internships. The university is home to some of the most innovative learning and visualization facilities in Australia. Campus facilities include: an Engineering Learning Hub with 3D CAVE2TM visualization studio; simulated nursing labs; specialized computer, science, manufacturing and design labs; nationally accredited sport science labs; and a range of interactive digital learning spaces. 

The study abroad program at USC offers a high level of student support. Study abroad students have access to award-winning teaching and study spaces, Olympic-standard sport equipment, and spaces for relaxation and independent study. 

Learn to surf, paddle or kite board, or sit back and enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle the Sunshine Coast has to offer. Explore the Sunshine Coast hinterland—hike Mt. Ngungun, wander through the Eucalyptus forest and waterfalls of Kondalilla National Park, or explore the wildlife of subtropical rainforests. Closer to campus, stroll along the beach esplanade and experience Australia’s famous cafe and coffee culture (avocado toast and flat whites are Aussie specialties). Or listen to some live music while enjoying the local nightlife. The Sunshine Coast is also an ideal base for exploring Australia’s big cities, the legendary Outback or the tropics and Great Barrier Reef. The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s premier destinations with its beautiful beaches, subtropical forests of the hinterland and warm sunshine year round. It is the third most populous area in Queensland, with approximately 300,000 residents and is located only 55 miles north of the state capital Brisbane.

Dates and Deadlines

 
Term Year Deadline Start Date End Date
Fall Semester (Semester 2) 2024 3/15/2024 Mid-July Late November
Academic Year 2024-25 3/15/2024 Mid-July Late June
Calendar Year 2025 10/15/2024 Mid-February Late November
Spring Semester (Semester 1) 2025 10/15/2024 Mid-February Late June

This program has a rolling admission application process: GEO staff will complete a review of the application materials of complete applications in the order that they are submitted (“first come, first serve”). Decisions about your enrollment will be made after you submit a complete application. Students are encouraged to complete applications and commit to programs early.

Successful applicants will receive a nomination from GEO. Selection will be based on a holistic review of your application. This includes a review of your GPA, transcripts (including courses taken and in-progress), any additional requirements or prerequisites (see section "Additional Requirements"), and written statements. 

Applying for this program involves 2 steps. If you receive a nomination from GEO, you will also need to complete the host university's application, which is administered and reviewed by your host university directly. Instructions will be provided after acceptance by GEO. The host university makes the final decision regarding acceptance into the program.

Discount for Pell Recipients

To expand access to study abroad, GEO is offering a $500 discount for this program to UO students who currently have the Pell Grant as part of their federal financial aid (FAFSA).

Academic Details

The academic year at USC is divided in two semesters: Semester 1 runs from early February to the end of June, and Semester 2 runs from mid-July to Late November. The curriculum at USC is organized in units and courses. Study Abroad students are eligible to undertake 3 or 4 courses (36 or 48 units) per semester and can choose from a wide range of disciplines.

Most USC programs offer opportunities for Work integrated learning (WIL). WIL offers an opportunity to put theory into practice, develop personal and professional skills, establish job networks, and find out what it’s like to work in your area of study.

At USC, you have the opportunity to Study Abroad or earn a Diploma.

A Diploma is a recognized 1-year Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award program. The courses are on the Bachelor level.

USC offers a variety of Diploma programs:

  • Diploma in Business
  • Diploma in Communication
  • Diploma in General Studies
  • Diploma in Outdoor Environmental Studies
  • Diploma in Social Science
  • Diploma in Sport and Fitness

If you are eligible, you could earn your pre-requisites at the University of Oregon (or your home campus) and complete the Diploma in one semester. You would need to transfer four semester courses credit, this will reduce the required eight required courses of a Diploma and will mean that you are only required to complete the remaining four courses at USC to graduate.

Eligibility of credit transfer can only be assessed by USC once an application has been received. Courses availability is dependent on the Diploma program selected. For the full list of available courses, view the program structure for the relevant Diploma page.

Students who complete the Diploma program can attend the USC Graduation ceremony.

Course Equivalencies

UO students: please refer to the UO Course Equivalency Process and the UO Office of the Registrar Course Equivalency Database.

Non-UO students: Actual credit awarded is determined by the relevant department at your university in consultation with the study abroad office. Check with your study abroad advisor for more information.

Housing Description

USC International does not book accommodation on behalf of students. You will need to ensure you arrange suitable accommodation for yourself prior to departing for Australia. During the application process, USC International provides you with information regarding accommodation options, which will assist you in finding suitable housing. 

USC recommends booking accommodation is one of the three privately owned student accommodation complexes located only a short walk from USC, using pathways linked to the campus. 

UniCentral, Varsity Apartments and The Village all offer modern self-contained accommodation in resort style complexes. 

At Varsity Apartments and UniCentral the fully furnished apartments have four private bedrooms with a communal kitchen and living area. Bedrooms have their own private bathroom, with a shower toilet and wash basin. 

The Village offers a range of accommodation options, with differing prices, from a room in a two or three bedroom apartment to boarding house style accommodation. When you’re not studying, you can take a swim in the pool, play on the beach volleyball, tennis or basketball courts, enjoy a barbeque with friends or make use of the games room with free pay TV.