Australia
Are you looking for a somewhat extraordinary direction for your study abroad experience? Why not chose down under then! Its pretty much at the end of the world and still has a terrific location: Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, a lot more Asian countries and not to forget the home of the Kiwis, New Zealand, are right around the corner. The Australian history has made this land multicultural in every way; you will see it in the languages, the peeps around you, the life style and the food. Not to forget the diversity of your surroundings! From lush rainforests, deep red deserts, overwhelming cityscapes, breathtaking underwater worlds, giant mangrove forests and stunning white beaches you will find every part of this so very different place is worth a visit.
Perth
Situated at the golden west coast and parted by the Swan River, favourite nesting site of the black swans, Perth is the largest city of Western Australia. Its somewhat isolated position (Singapore is almost closer than Sidney!) does not diminish the liveable character though; it gives its inhabitants a much laid back and relaxed nature. The area around Perth is most well known for its lavish opulence of wild flowers and its blooming mining industry which made Perth a very wealthy city. Remarkable are its dimensions: rather than being big it's a very long city stretched along the coastal line. Relaxing destinations are not too far away: national parks with impressive waterfalls allure in the north, a luscious wine region in the south and Rottnest Island with dream beaches just in front of the coast.
It is - as are all Australian cities - influenced by a colourful cocktail of nationalities and definitely a nice place to study - although some claim it might be a tad too quiet from time to time.
Murdoch University
Besides the exciting location you will find that Murdoch (as one of the major universities in Australia) offers a large variety of study subjects and a high quality education. This will give you both the opportunity to study under highly motivated native speakers as well as hooking up with students from all around the world with all kinds of stories. A double degree is possible given that you study successfully for two semester. Currently students can choose between two different degrees, both of which are so called double majors (i.e. two main subjects are covered): Molecular Biology/Biomedical Sciences or Biotechnology/Molecular Biology.
As European student unfortunately you have to pay tuitition fees. Currently a one-semester fee waiver is granted to one of our students who enroll as double degree students. Those who decide to stay for one semester only (i.e. do not plan to do a double degree) will receive a 10% reduction. Also since Australia is not the cheapst country, you might check the overall costs compared to your financial situation first. Although coming from the smaller university in Rheinbach our students were most heartily welcomed and taken care of by the friendly staff, of which some even travelled to Rheinbach in the past to maintain the good cooperation of both universities. Last but not least the multitude of extracurricular activities will make your stay at Murdoch as worth while as possible!
Please mind that the course program does not contain a bachelor project or thesis!
More information:
http://www.murdoch.edu.au
Fact sheet (to be prepared)
Melbourne
Although not the official capital of Australia every Aussie still calls it the secret and cultural capital. Once set foot in this astonishing city one realises why! Its location at the beautiful east coast in the heart of Victoria (home of the cuddly Koalas and the only place where you will see these sleepy animals snoring away in their natural environment) not too far from the other metropolises makes it a very busy city. Despite this the sky scraping appearance is loosened up by many parks and open spaces - ideal for those keen on sports or simple relaxing.
This city also attracts a lot of attention due to its close proximity to the famous Great Ocean Road, the 250km long road leading along the coast and offering the most beautiful views over the ocean and the stone formations guarding it.
Also worth mentioning: There is no better place to shop! And let's face it: Sydney may have the great opera house and harbour bridge, but Melbourne simply has more charm in both many obvious and hidden ways.
Victoria University
Unfortunately most of our students who chose to go to Victoria came back earlier as planned. In order to ensure a successful stay for you in your year abroad it will require a tight supervision and negotiation beforehand. But you are very welcome to contact us, in order to warm up again this good cooperation.
Fact sheet (to be prepared)
