The rivalry between Melbourne and Sydney runs deep. The two largest cities in the country … Read more
RMIT University
RMIT University’s modern architectural design accents the lively streets of Melbourne. Often considered the world’s most liveable city, participants can’t help but feel energetic in this urban campus. With an assortment of comprehensive courses, emphasizing on technology and design, and the best parts of Melbourne at your feet, you’ll find it easy to settle into your new routine. Students participating in our RMIT University program live in high quality, fully furnished student apartments a short walk from campus.
Overview
Enjoy a semester at a university with a reputation for providing focused practical training and research
Enjoy the Melbourne lifestyle. Voted the world’s most liveable city four times running, Melbourne will captivate you with its charming café culture and cool nightlife
Experience living downtown in high quality, ideally located off-campus student apartments
Participate in our Cultural Events Program – designed to introduce you to the local Melbourne scene
Explore the Great Barrier Reef and tropical far north Australia during your comprehensive five-day Orientation Program, with a week of adventure and learning
Experience an alternative Spring Break with our optional Thailand or New Zealand excursion
Appreciate access to TEAN’s in-country Resident Director for continued support throughout the semester
Program Details
Housing
Students attending RMIT have the option to live in purpose-built student accommodation in the city, close to all the action and within walking distance to campus.
TEAN Staff
Throughout your semester you will meet with the Melbourne Resident Director for informal discussions and excursions. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social or cultural issues that you may face during your time abroad.
University
About RMIT University
- Founded in 1887, the University was formally granted university status in 1992 and is known as a global university of technology and design.
- RMIT’s main campus is located in the heart of Melbourne in the midst of galleries, restaurants and shops. Students enjoy all the benefits associated with studying in the lively Central Business District.
- RMIT has a reputation for providing practical education, training and research. Programs are developed in consultation with industry to ensure graduates are employable.
- Ranked as the number one school in Australia for Art and Design by the QS World University Rankings, and considered in the world’s top 100 universities in Art and Design; Architecture; Engineering (Civil and Structural; Electrical and Electronic; and Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing); Computer Science; and Business and Management Studies, which is AACSB accredited.
- RMIT University has three campuses in Melbourne with most TEAN students based on the main city campus, located downtown on the north edge of Melbourne’s Central Business District. It is easily accessible by tram and train from any point in greater Melbourne. The sights and sounds of the artistic city of Melbourne spill onto the urban city campus and reveal the slightly chaotic charm of RMIT, with its blend of colors and styles and traditional and modern architecture. RMIT University is located in a vibrant part of Melbourne.
- Students are in a unique academic and social environment surrounded by galleries, an eclectic array restaurants, the State Library of Victoria, Queen Victoria Market and more.
Courses
Courses
Courses are available in the below disciplines. For detailed instructions on how to find and select courses, and a list of popular courses see our course selection instructions. Students enroll in 3 – 4 courses per semester (38-48 credits), which usually transfers as 12 – 16 U.S. semester credits.
Find CoursesAcademic Departments and Schools at RMIT are divided into three academic divisions: Design and Social Context, Business and Science, Engineering and Health.
Discipline |
Subject Area |
| Business |
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| Communications & Media |
|
| Education |
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| Engineering |
|
| Environment |
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| Health |
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| Humanities & Social Sciences |
|
| International Studies |
|
| Science |
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| Visual, Performing Arts & Design |
|
Eligibility
ELIGIBILITY
- 2.5 GPA.
- Minimum sophomore standing at a four-year institution at the time of participation.
- Freshmen and/or students attending a two-year institution may be considered on a case by case basis.
Events & Excursions
Activities / Immersion
Our local staff arrange various activities during the semester designed to help immerse you in the local culture. These activities are included in your semester program. In addition, if you have a specific interest or hobby, your Melbourne-based TEAN Resident Director will be able to point you in the right direction. Below are examples of previous activities arranged for students. Note that activities change each semester.
In addition to the TEAN-organized events, to make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunities, our local staff send out frequent emails letting you know what is happening in Melbourne. Ranging from community events to music festivals, we tap you into the local culture right from the start.
Melbourne walking tour
Included within the first few weeks after arriving in Melbourne, we walk and jump on trams all over the city, clueing you into the local secrets. Melbourne’s city center is made up of winding bylanes and it’s here where you find unique cafes, bars, restaurants and galleries. We’ll also explore Melbourne’s urban villages, ending the day in an iconic locals-only venue for dinner. This day will set you up with the knowledge you need to make the most of your time in this great city.
Aussie Rules Football match
There is no sporting event that gets the sports-mad Victorian more vocal than an Aussie Rules Football match. Australian Rules football began in Victoria in the 1850s, predating American football, rugby and soccer. It’s not like other football types, the best explanation is to experience a game yourself. We see a game between two local rivals and sample a local culinary favorite – the meat pie! It’s the hot dog equivalent of the Australian spectator sporting experience.
Local original live music
Melbourne is known for its local, live music scene and excellent intimate venues. We make sure students get to experience becoming part of a local crowd by heading to a show of an Australian band at an incredible venue. If you have a music genre preference, let your local staff know and we’ll try to accommodate your request – or at least give you some recommendations to check out on your own!
Optional Excursions
During the semester, you’ll be busy with class and exploring your local area on the weekends. With this in mind, TEAN encourages students to get to know Australia better or travel to even more exotic destinations with excursions organized during school breaks. Participating in these excursions will depend on your program dates and semester abroad.
SOUTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the most magnificent natural environments this planet has to offer and is home to some of the world’s most extreme adventure sports! From the Southern Hemisphere’s highest (and original) bungee jump, to jet boating through ravines, whitewater rafting raging rapids and hiking glaciers, you won’t be bored or disappointed! This excursion is usually offered as a mid-semester break excursion.
Read MoreTHAILAND
Take advantage of Australia’s ideal location in the South Pacific and explore exotic Asian destinations. With TEAN’s exclusive nine-day excursion to Thailand, you’ll find yourself bathing elephants in a river, learning to cook Thai food, visiting exotic temples and spending the evening with hilltribe villagers. With the culture of the north and the beaches of the south, this excursion, usually offered during mid-semester break, is not to be missed.
Program Dates
APPLICATION DEADLINES
TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.
| Spring Deadline | Nov 18 |
| Fall Deadline | April 21 |
Spring 2018
| Date of Departure | Feb 2 | |
| TEAN Orientation | Feb 4 | Feb 8 |
| University Orientation | Feb 14 | Feb 16 |
| Classes Begin | Feb 26 | |
| Semester Break | Mar 29 | Apr 4 |
| Classes End | May 25 | |
| Study Period | May 28 | Jun 3 |
| Exam Period | Jun 4 | Jun 22 |
| Program Ends | Jun 23 |
Fall 2017
| Date of Departure | Jul 8 | |
| TEAN Orientation | Jul 10* | |
| Housing Move-In | Jul 10 | |
| University Orientation | Jul 11 | Jul 13 |
| Classes Begin | Jul 17 | |
| Semester Break | Aug 29 | Sep 3 |
| Classes End | Oct 15 | |
| Study Period | Oct 16 | Oct 22 |
| Exam Period | Oct 23 | Nov 10 |
| Program Ends | Nov 11 |
*Due to program dates for Fall 2017, RMIT students will not attend the TEAN Orientation in Cairns. There will be a local Melbourne Orientation with TEAN.
Fees & Inclusions
Fall 2017
- Tuition and services: $12,650
- Housing (on/off campus): $6,770
Spring 2017
- Tuition and services: $12,650
- Housing (on/off campus): $6,770
What’s Included
- Full tuition
- Guaranteed, pre-arranged, off-campus student housing
- Overseas health insurance, plus evacuation and repatriation insurance
- Services of local Resident Directors
- Five-day Orientation Program with some meals, excursions, accommodations and transportation
- Cultural events scheduled throughout the semester
- Wireless internet access in all housing
- Access to pre-arranged and affordable cell phone packages
- Access to unique and exciting optional excursions which may include New Zealand, Thailand and other places
- Access to competitive airfares and pre-arranged flight itineraries
- Extensive pre-departure counseling and information packets
- University and course selection advice
- Official academic transcripts from host institution
- Credit approval and transfer assistance
- Help with student visa preparation
- Financial aid transfer planning
- Airport pickup and reception in Melbourne
- Arrival Welcome packet containing important local contact details and information
- Melbourne Farewell Dinner at conclusion of program
- Host university orientation
What’s Not Included
- International airfare ($1,900)
- Domestic airfare in US ($500)
- Student visa ($475)
- Books ($365)
- Meals during the semester ($2,000)
- Airport transfer at the end of the semester ($50)
*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.
Scholarships
We Love RMIT
Kate Hilby
Program Manager
Melbourne Tip
The Rooftop Bar
Melbourne is known for its rooftop bars, but the most quintessential would have to be The Rooftop Bar. Seven floors above Curtain House, it is unquestionably one of the best spots in Melbourne for an open-air drink. On colder nights, hot apple cider and mulled wine is on offer as you warm yourself under the outdoor heaters, and on those hot nights recline on a deck chair, sipping your favorite cocktail while taking in a movie as the bar transforms into the Rooftop Cinema.
Q&A
Tell us a little about what you do at TEAN?
I currently work on our New Zealand programs. My role as team lead and Program Manager is to make sure everything on these programs is running smoothly working with our team. It includes everything from making sure students have pre-departure information on time to making sure they submit all of the items they need to study abroad (i.e. transcripts, courses, contracts, arrival details, payments, visa confirmations).
Where did you study abroad?
I studied with TEAN in Melbourne, Australia at Deakin University. It’s a more traditional campus, just outside the city but being able to live in the city and commute gave me the best of both worlds. Honestly, Melbourne has something for everyone – think sporting events, art, music, theatre, comedy, laneway cafes/restaurants/bars, shopping, the list goes on. Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, so why wouldn’t you choose to study there? If you’re looking for a Melbourne equivalent in New Zealand, check out Wellington known as the coolest little capital in the world. It’s a smaller city, but that makes it an easy city to get around by foot. It’s a very accessible city for study abroad students.
What brought you back to Melbourne to live and work after graduation?
When I graduated, I knew I wanted to return to Australia. My time studying abroad had given me that exposure to living abroad and I wanted to spend more time there as a professional. For my career, It was great to gain work experience at a university abroad. I’m so glad I went down this path or I might not have ended up at TEAN today!
Packing for study abroad is always a challenge and popular topic, as a frequent flyer – what insider tips do you have for someone packing for the semester?
I’ve become pretty good at packing light over the years since there have been so many times earlier on where I’ve overpacked. I took half of my closet and never touched the majority of it. You will hear the advice – pack everything you think you’ll need then take half of it – and it’s so true. My other advice is to pack articles of clothing you can mix and match to create different outfits to help reduce items. Also try to keep the shoe situation under control, they take up a lot of room. Bring a couple pairs that are super versatile (and comfortable).
If you were going to study abroad tomorrow on a TEAN program where would you go?
I’m biased, but I would study on one of our New Zealand programs. Since working with our TEAN New Zealand students, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to New Zealand a few times and have visited all program locations. I’ve also done some traveling in the South Island. I would love the idea of going for a full semester, joining a tramping club on campus and getting out into the beauty of New Zealand in my free time!
Melbourne Tip
Dumplings and Karaoke in Chinatown
Melbourne’s Chinatown is always a hive of bustling activity, especially at night when the street lights up and restaurants are packed. Karaoke and Dumplings, is a much loved event for the locals. Most restaurants allow you to bring your own wine, and all of them will serve a variety of different dumplings. Once dinner is over, head into one of the numerous karaoke lounges and sing your heart out to your favourite power ballads.
Q&A
Where have you traveled and lived in Asia Pacific?
I lived and worked in Sydney for a year. I also had an internship in Sydney in college. I have also traveled to China, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, and New Zealand.
Can you share some of the highlights or lessons from your time living abroad?
The biggest lesson I have learned from my time abroad is adaptability. Living in another country can really bring you out of your comfort zone and force you into situations where you have to go with the flow. I learned to embrace the differences of the different cultures I was experiencing rather than wishing I could have the same things/experiences I was used to back home in the U.S. I loved navigating my way around new places, getting lost and discovering the best places that I just stumbled upon because I was up for whatever came my way.
What are your recommendations for top places to check out in Sydney?
There are so many great suburbs that offer a little something different for everyone. I LOVE Bourke Street Bakery in Surry Hills, specifically their sausage rolls and lemon tart, but everything is amazing. I also recommend enjoying some of the northern beaches as they are much less crowded and gorgeous. People should also do the Manly to Spit Bridge walk as it is stunning!
As the Program Manager for Singapore, what do you think makes it an amazing place to study abroad?
Singapore is one of those hidden gems in Southeast Asia. I feel like it is a very misunderstood country as people think everything is just glass highrise buildings and everything is really expensive. There are actually some really great neighborhoods with lots of different cultures represented. Owning a car and buying an apartment are expensive, but for day to day life for a study abroad student, it’s a very affordable study abroad destination.
What is your advice for a student who is on the fence about studying abroad?
I would always tell students who were on the fence about studying abroad that they will never look back and say, I really wish I didn’t spend five months in Australia or wherever they are thinking about going. Studying abroad is such a life-changing experience and even if the first few weeks are tough, you learn so much about yourself and how well you can navigate the unknown.
Rob Gaetano
Resident Director - Melbourne
Melbourne Tip
The Queen Victoria Night Markets
You have to check out the Queen Victoria Night Markets. The Queen Vic Markets are some of Melbourne’s iconic markets and have been the heart and soul of the city for more than a century. The markets are open nearly every day until 2pm, however during the winter and summer months, the Queen Vic Markets come alive for the Wednesday Night Markets. With stalls featuring international foods, local arts and crafts and live music, the night markets are always a great evening out.
Q&A
What is your role at TEAN?
I’m the go to guy for Melbourne! My role involves looking after all the students who come through Melbourne, be that for semester programs, internships or our short terms programs. I arrange all their logistics but also help them engage in Melbourne culture by taking them to various events during their time here and making sure they sample plenty of Melbourne’s coffee!
What do you think makes Melbourne a great city for students to study abroad?
I think that no matter what you’re into, you can find it in Melbourne. It caters for the sports mad, the music lovers, the art aficionados, the film geeks, the theatre nerds, the foodies, the adventurous nature lovers, and of course those obsessed with coffee. People ask me where they can get the best coffee in Melbourne and I honestly cannot tell them. 99% of the cafes you go to will serve you a delicious brew – we’re spoilt for choice.
What should be on your bucket list for a study abroad semester in Melbourne?
Go to the footy! Aussie Rules Football is unlikely anything you will ever see. It’s such a fast paced, dynamic, high scoring game and if you go to a match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (the MCG) you will have a great time. I’d also recommend going to a music festival, going to see some theatre (we have so much of it in Melbourne) and visiting Lygon Street, Melbourne’s Little Italy for some hearty Italian food.
What’s your favorite venue in Melbourne?
Ponyfish Island. It’s a cool little bar that sits in the middle of the Yarra River underneath a bridge. So cool, and so very Melbourne
What local tips would you give to someone who visiting Melbourne for the first time?
Explore off the grid. Melbourne is a well planned city, the centre is a giant grid so you can’t get lost. But the downside to this as a tourist or someone new to the city, is that you may not veer off the grid – and that’s where Melbourne comes alive. Melbourne’s laneways and alleys have some of the best cafes, bars and boutique stores that you would never discover if you stayed on the grid. Like I always tell TEAN students, “If it’s not up a staircase or down a laneway, it’s not worth going to.”
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