Short-term study tours

Federation University offers short programs at partner universities worldwide, providing an excellent chance to experience overseas study without the full commitment of a semester abroad. These seasonal programs, running between two to four weeks primarily during semester breaks, enable students to fast-track their degrees by completing approved subjects earlier. For more details on the current offerings, it's advised to contact the Student Mobility Office.

The New Colombo Plan (NCP) study tours, led by Federation University academics, blend international study with cultural immersion, allowing students to earn credit or placement hours towards their degree. Supported by Australian Government funding, these intensive two to three-week programs during semester breaks are made affordable. Organized by the schools and coordinated by the Mobility Office, these tours are part of the Australian Government's initiative to increase knowledge of the Indo-Pacific region among Australian undergraduates.

The following programs are currently available as short-term programs in 2024 and early 2025.

Please note that not all short-term programs are NCP-supported.


Indonesia Public Health Study Tour

Dive into an extraordinary opportunity with our program designed for undergraduate Nursing students, fostering deep engagement in health promotion in Indonesia. This initiative, born from a partnership between Federation University and Universitas Airlangga, immerses students in environments where resources are scarce, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamics that shape health and wellness.

The journey begins with an immersive workshop on Indonesian Language and Cultural Awareness, preparing students for meaningful interactions within primary healthcare settings. Direct engagement with healthcare professionals, patients, and community leaders will unveil the multifaceted challenges and innovations in health promotion, both in Indonesia and in comparison to Australia's rural and remote areas.

Participants will experience firsthand the contrasts in healthcare environments, social determinants, and cultural practices, enhancing their understanding of global health issues. Meetings with key figures, including the Mayor of Surabaya and engagement in cross-cultural workshops, alongside excursions to local attractions, enrich this educational voyage.

This program not only broadens perspectives but also equips students with the knowledge and empathy needed to contribute significantly to health promotion efforts, bridging gaps between diverse healthcare systems and cultures.

Length of tour2 weeks
Expected travel datesSaturday 11 January to Saturday 25 January 2025
Cost of tour (approximate)$4,000.00 per student*
NCP funding availableNot available for this project
Total approximate cost$4,000.00 per student
Staff contacts (more info)Professor Aziz Rahman (ma.rahman@federation.edu.au)
Application closing dateFriday 16 August 2024

*Cost includes flights and transport, insurance, accommodation, program fees and most meals - these costs are approximate at time of printing and will be confirmed prior to final student offering.

Nepal Life Science Study Tour (Conservation & Environmental Science)

Tour Leader - Professor Wendy Wright - Professor, Conservation Biology and Dean of the Graduate School

Immerse yourself in a unique three-week course with Federation University Australia, situated in Nepal's lush Terai region, close to Chitwan National Park. This immersive experience, hosted at the Biodiversity Conservation Centre and operated by Nepal’s National Trust for Nature Conservation, offers a deep dive into Nepalese culture, conservation, and the vibrant efforts to protect iconic species like the One-horned Rhinoceros, Bengal Tiger, and Asian Elephant.

This program highlights the importance of community-driven conservation, showcasing Nepal's Community Forestry system as a model of participatory forest management that has become integral to rural development and biodiversity conservation. With over 17,000 Community Forestry User Groups, students will explore how these initiatives foster sustainable livelihoods, reduce dependency on forest resources, and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

Through hands-on wildlife and habitat monitoring, participants will gain insights into the socio-economic and environmental landscapes of rural Nepal, understanding the significant impact of community forestry and participatory conservation approaches. This course not only educates but also offers a pathway to contribute to real-world conservation solutions in one of the world’s most ecologically rich areas.

Length of tour3 weeks
Expected travel datesSaturday 11 January to Sunday 2 February 2025
Cost of tour (Approximate)$5,000.00 per student*
NCP funding availableFour (4) students may be subsidised $3,500.00 each
Total approximate cost$5,000.00 per student (NCP recipients will need to contribute approximately $1,500.00 each)
Staff contacts (more info)Professor Wendy Wright (wendy.wright@federation.edu.au)
Application closing dateFriday 16 August 2024
Expression of Interest (EOI)

*Cost includes flights and transport, insurance, accommodation, program fees and most meals - these costs are approximate at time of printing and will be confirmed prior to final student offering.

Nepal Life Science Internship (Vet Science)

Download the study tour brochure here.

Embark on a transformative six-week internship with the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) in Nepal, a nation celebrated for its conservation successes. This unique program immerses you in the forefront of wildlife conservation, offering intimate encounters with Nepal’s iconic species like the one-horned rhinoceros, pangolins, and Bengal tigers. You’ll start by exploring the rich biodiversity near Chitwan National Park, learning about community-led conservation efforts and local culture, including insights into the indigenous Tharu community.

The experience deepens as you work alongside veterinary and animal care teams, contributing to the treatment and rescue of wildlife, and engaging in Nepal’s community-based conservation model. Designed for just six participants annually, our program ensures a deeply personal and impactful journey into the heart of conservation, blending practical conservation work with a rich cultural immersion.

This is more than an internship; it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to conservation efforts while gaining unparalleled experience and understanding of the challenges and triumphs in a developing country. Join us for a journey that bridges the gap between conservation theory and practice, all within the breathtaking landscape of Nepal.

Length of tour6 weeks
Expected travel datesSaturday 11 January to Sunday 23 February 2025
Cost of tour (approximate)$8,000.00 per student*
NCP funding availableFour (4) students may be subsidised $5,000.00 each
Total approximate cost$8,000.00 per student (NCP recipients will need to contribute approximately $3,000.00 each)
Staff contacts (more info)Professor Wendy Wright (wendy.wright@federation.edu.au)
Application closing dateFriday 16 August 2024
Expression of Interest (EOI)

*Cost includes flights and transport, insurance, accommodation, program fees and most meals - these costs are approximate at time of printing and will be confirmed prior to final student offering.

Sri Lanka Environmental Science Study Tour

Download the study tour brochure here.

Discover the wonders of tropical biodiversity with the University of Peradeniya's summer course, "Tropical Biodiversity and Conservation," set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka's UNESCO-listed Knuckles Conservation Forest. This unique program, tailored for undergraduates with a passion for nature and learning, combines hands-on conservation techniques with an immersive cultural experience, including visits to local enterprises and historical sites.

Participants will explore beyond traditional conservation, engaging with Ayurvedic medicine, bio-inspired innovations, and sustainable practices while addressing challenges like human-elephant conflicts. Highlights include interactions with the indigenous Vedda people, offering insights into their eco-centric agricultural methods.

Spanning diverse ecosystems over two weeks, the course features visits to a Tea Museum, a Cinnamon processing center, and more, allowing for a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. With opportunities to explore local marketplaces and archaeological sites, this program promises an enriching blend of education, culture, and adventure. Join us at the University of Peradeniya for a transformative experience in the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Length of tour2 weeks
Expected travel datesSaturday 11 January to Sunday 25 January 2025
Cost of tour (approximate)$5,000.00 per student*
NCP funding available$3,000.00 per student
Total approximate cost$5,000.00 (NCP students will need to contribute $2,000.00 each)
Staff contacts (more info)Dr Kushan Tennakoon (k.tennakoon@federation.edu.au)
Application closing dateFriday 16 August 2024
Expression of Interest (EOI)

*Cost includes flights and transport, insurance, accommodation, program fees and most meals - these costs are approximate at time of printing and will be confirmed prior to final student offering.

Taiwan Nursing OT Physio Study Tour

Download the study tour brochure here.

Discover the transformative "Ageing with Dignity in Taiwan" initiative, a collaborative effort uniting students from Federation University, Monash University, University of Canberra, Ming Chi University, and Chang Gung University. Scheduled for 15 days in January 2025, this program invites students from nursing, allied health, and design disciplines to explore innovative solutions for ageing through cultural visits, lectures, and workshops.

Participants will engage deeply with Taiwan’s healthcare challenges, benefiting from a rich mix of interdisciplinary and cross-cultural insights. The initiative emphasizes practical outcomes, culminating in a public exhibition where students present their projects to academics, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders. Contributions also extend to conferences and video vignettes, enhancing the project’s reach and impact.

Supported by partnerships with the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association and Austrade in Taipei, the initiative leverages expert networks to maximize its relevance and effectiveness. Prioritizing inclusivity, it offers a platform for diverse and underrepresented groups to shine.

Open to second-year students in Nursing, Occupational Therapy, or Physiotherapy, this program fulfills specific third-year curriculum requirements. It offers participants a comprehensive, immersive educational experience that enriches academic and professional development while addressing global healthcare challenges. Join us to make a meaningful impact on global health and ageing.

Length of tour2 weeks
Expected travel datesFriday 10 January to Sunday 25 January 2025
Cost of tour (approximate)$4,500.00 per student*
NCP funding available$4,000.00 per student
Total approximate cost$4,500.00 (NCP students will need to contribute $500.00 each)
Staff contacts (more info)Dr Apeksha Gohil (a.gohil@federation.edu.au)
Application closing dateFriday 16 August 2024
Expression of Interest (EOI)

*Cost includes flights and transport, insurance, accommodation, program fees and most meals - these costs are approximate at time of printing and will be confirmed prior to final student offering.