Location

Sydney, Auckland, Australia, New Zealand

Program Description

Join us for a three-week journey across Australia with optional New Zealand! Earn 6 CIS credits while exploring Sydney and optional Auckland. This program combines academic learning with hands-on consulting, cultural immersion, and global business experiences.

Sydney, Australia – Take classes in Sydney and visit global firms while exploring the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, The Rocks Historic District and the Blue Mountains.

Optional: Auckland, New Zealand – Discover Māori culture, explore the Sky Tower and stunning harbors, and experience the vibrant lifestyle of New Zealand’s largest city.

This program is designed for CIS majors or minors.

Click here to learn more about the program.

Location Description

Sydney, the largest and most dynamic city in Australia, is renowned for its breathtaking harbor, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. From the world-famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge to the golden beaches of Bondi and Manly, the city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern sophistication.

As Australia’s financial and technology hub, Sydney is home to many global firms, start-ups, and research institutions, making it an ideal location for students to explore international business and IT innovation. Major U.S. technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), IBM, Oracle, and Salesforce all maintain significant operations in Sydney, providing students with first-hand exposure to the global IT ecosystem and opportunities to learn from industry leaders.

The city also boasts world-class universities, diverse neighborhoods, and a rich multicultural heritage, giving students the opportunity to experience both professional engagement and cultural immersion. Students will enjoy the convenience of a safe and welcoming environment, excellent public transportation, and access to excursions that showcase Australia’s distinctive landscapes—from coastal walks and national parks to nearby destinations such as the Blue Mountains. Sydney provides an inspiring backdrop for academic learning, cultural exploration, and personal growth.

Director

Ping Wang | wangpx@jmu.edu | CIS/BSAN

Carey Cole | colecb@jmu.edu | CIS/BSAN

Accommodations

Students will be housed either in student dormitories or in hotels located near a major university such as the University of Sydney, Macquarie University, or Western Sydney University. Both options are designed to provide a safe, convenient, and comfortable living environment.

Dorm-style housing offers a chance to experience campus life and connect with local students, while nearby hotels provide additional comfort and amenities within easy access to classrooms, dining, and city transportation. All accommodations will be selected to ensure proximity to academic facilities, cultural activities, and major attractions in Sydney.

Additional Items to Consider

Meals: Daily breakfast included and a moderate amount of meal allowance, students will have flexibility for lunch and dinner with many affordable dining options nearby. Some group meals will be provided during excursions.

Local Transportation: Easy access to Sydney’s extensive public transport network (train, bus, light rail, and ferry). Pre-paid transit cards may be arranged for student convenience.

Excursions: Visits to iconic sites such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and a day trip to the Blue Mountains (including admissions and guided tours).

Health & Safety: Sydney is a safe and welcoming city with high-quality healthcare facilities. Students will receive a pre-departure orientation covering safety, cultural adjustment, and emergency contacts.

Cultural Engagement: Opportunities to experience Sydney’s multicultural environment, from attending local events and performances to exploring diverse neighborhoods.

Academic Support: program directors will coordinate with university partners and ensure smooth integration of classroom learning, company visits, and cultural experiences.

Students should demonstrate maturity, adaptability, and interest in global learning experiences, as the program combines academic coursework with cultural immersion and professional engagement.

Applicant Criteria

Open to Sophomore, Junior, and Senior CIS majors or minors

Completion of CIS 221 (Principles of Programming) with a minimum grade of 2.5 (C+) prior to participation.

No foreign language is required.