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Australia, the Meeting Place of Various Cultures

admin — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 22:00:07 +0000

The first inhabitants of this vast continent are the aborigines, coming to the land some 40,000 to 50,000 years ago, and the scholars thought they may have crossed the land bridges from Southeast Asia. These people were mostly hunter-gatherers with a complex oral tradition and spiritual beliefs. The Aborigines were able to use and sustain the continent’s resources, concurring to stop hunting and gathering at certain times to give ample time to the resources and populations to flourish. It is believed that before the European settlement, as many as half a million to a million Aborigines lived peacefully. Today, an estimated 350,000 Aborigines are living on the continent.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Aboriginal culture is their belief of the Dreamtime or the sacred time of the world’s creation. Stories of the Dreamtime are depicted in bark painting and rock art as well as lyrical music, which are handed down from generation to generation and has remained intact for at least 50,000 years. Dances are also major feature of the Aboriginal culture and tradition portraying the creation myths as well as recent events of historical significance.

The Portuguese, Spanish and Dutch explorers have landed on the continent but it was not until the late 18th century that a European settlement really started with the arrival of settlers and prisoners from Great Britain. Australia was a penal colony of the British Empire until the system was abolished around the mid-1800. The former prisoners and other pioneers founded six colonies and these are New South Wales, Tasmania, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and Queensland.

The colonial past of this land has inspired the Australian affinity for social equality, for justice and liberty, and for the will to survive in new and largely unfamiliar lands and situations very much like the pioneers of the land.

During the gold rush of the 1850s, immigrants from all over the world, such as Europe, North America and China, traveled to Australia in search for the gold and the riches buried beneath the red sands of this vast continent. These immigrants brought with them their unique culture to merge with the flourishing culture of the settlers and the long-standing Aboriginal tradition. However, this period of prosperity was short-lived and the 1890s was a time of financial recession.

After the Second World War, Australia promoted immigration from Europe and later on, immigrants from Asia and elsewhere begun coming in and building new lives in the Land Down Under. Once again, Australia experienced another cultural transformation. From then on, this vast arid land has undergone so many transformations and Australia is now one of the highly industrialized countries in the world.

Another distinct feature of the Australians is their sheer love for sports. There are more than 120 national sports organizations and thousands of state, regional and even local sports associations. Australian athletes have proven time and time again in international sports competitions that they can step up to the challenge. Football, cricket, and water sports are just some of the favorite sports of the Aussies. Since most of the populations are living within easy access of the coast and the sea, it is not surprising that the beach and the water is a central part of the Australian lifestyle.

As a steady stream of immigrants arrive, the multiculturalism of Australia is further defined with more than 20 percent of the population being foreign born and another 40 percent are of diverse cultural background. Most Australians are multilingual, speaking a second or third language after English, the most popular of these being Cantonese, Greek, Italian, and Arabic.

Australia has indeed come a long way from the land it was in the 18th century. Today, it is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world by blending the past with the present and forging an enduring future for the next generations of Aussies.

Jo is a writer for ‘Australian Travel Visas Ltd’ (http://www.australiantravelvisas.co.uk), experts in arranging Australian visas. If you are trying to apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa in order for you to stay for a year in Australia and obtain work as well or if you are not sure which Australian travel visa is most appropriate for you then you should take a look at Australian Travel Visas Ltd.

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Costs to Study Abroad in Australia Or New Zealand

admin — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 22:01:10 +0000

It pays to know how much higher education costs abroad when you are considering a semester or year of college overseas in Australia or New Zealand. Just like attending college or university in the United States or Canada, New Zealand and Australian college costs will include tuition, books and living expenses, but there are a few additional costs that are special to study abroad programs of which you will want to be aware.

As in the United States or Canada, the tuition that you will pay for a study abroad in Australia or New Zealand program will vary by university and the program you will study. In general, a bachelors degree in Australia or New Zealand will run from $11,000 to $23,000 in United States dollars, depending on the area of study selected. Specialized degrees such as a Bachelors degree in Veterinary Science will cost from $19,000 to $40,000, while a law degree will average from $17,500 to $36,000. Masters degrees, as is the case in the United States and Canada, are more expensive, ranging from $13,000 to $27,000 for the two years course of study, with an additional two years of PhD level study costing between $2,500 to $25,000. A medical degree from Australia or New Zealand can average anywhere from $35,000 to $50,000, whereas an MBA comes at a cost of $17,000 to $50,000.

There are other costs involved with college in Australia or New Zealand that you would not ordinarily have at a home college or university. Prominent in this category is the student visa. The student visa allows you to legally study in the foreign country, and may also allow other privileges such as working in the host country and access to health care, but this varies by country. Student visas are less expensive for New Zealand than Australia, with the Kiwi visa available from zero to $170 United States dollars, and the Australian visa ranging from $450 to $515. The good news is that with a student visa in Australia or New Zealand, you are allowed to work up to twenty hours per week during the academic year and can even work full time during breaks between semesters, to help defray costs.

Other ordinary costs for books and living expenses should be added in when you consider the cost of study abroad new zealand, according to a 2007 cost comparison, was the least expensive country for student living expenses, coming in at $8,958 United States dollars per academic year. Students studying in Australia can expect to pay $11,322 annually, while American students pay the most at $12,362 per year. If you plan on additional travel or take part in entertainment, you will want to allocate additional funds for this purpose. Books in both countries range approximately $500 per year. Roundtrip airfare will run around $2,000.

For additional help in finding funding for your study abroad in Australia or New Zealand, contact your college financial aid office.

Wayne Hemrick writes about– Study Abroad opportunities In Australia Or New Zealand

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Top Education in Less Time – The Benefit of Earning a Bachelor Degree in Australia Or New Zealand

admin — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 21:59:04 +0000

A typical undergraduate program in North America requires four years for completion and includes a selection of electives as well as required core classes relevant to the field of study. While this path does provide a solid education, some students may prefer a different approach in working toward their undergraduate degree. Australia and New Zealand both offer viable alternatives well worth consideration. With their unique approach to curriculum structure and focus, New Zealand and Australia undergraduate programs deliver an outstanding education and an ideal alternative for students that prefer such flexibility.

Making the Most of Your Time

North American universities typically require four years of work to earn a bachelor degree. Australia and New Zealand universities, however, offer many undergraduate programs that only require three years to complete. At first glance, one may wonder how it is possible to receive a comparable education in less time at these colleges. Because there are considerable differences in the curriculum focus and structure between a North America and New Zealand or Australia undergraduate program, it is in fact quite possible.

Australia and New Zealand undergraduate programs are highly specialized. Rather than require the completion of a set number of electives unrelated to the core field of study, these programs instead require students to focus entirely upon classes in their discipline. As a result, students have a greater amount of time to become immersed in their selected field of study, yet need less time to meet the requirements of an undergraduate degree. New Zealand and Australian universities, as a result, prepare students for real world application of their studies more expediently.

It should be noted, however, that some specialized and professional degree programs do require a fourth year, an example would be an engineering undergraduate degree. New Zealand and Australia colleges also offer 4th year program called a Bachelor of Honors. This involves a research-focused year and is made available to students who performed well in their undergraduate programs. Students typically apply for this extended program upon completion of their Australia or New Zealand undergraduate degree.

How Do the Programs Compare?

While they offer appealing time requirements for a bachelor degree, Australia and New Zealand universities also offer unparalleled academic programs. In fact, these institutions are recognized around the world for excellence in teaching methods, curriculum standards and implementation of degree programs. Students can feel absolute confidence in the value and quality of their studies when earning an undergraduate degree in Australia or New Zealand.

Susan Slobac advises college students on study abroad opportunities in the South Pacific region. She specializes in providing guidance about Australia undergraduate degree programs as well as those in New Zealand.

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Comparing an Australia and New Zealand Master’s Degree Program

admin — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 21:54:18 +0000

The solid academic reputation of universities in both Australia and New Zealand make them extremely desirable choices for pursuing postgraduate studies. Both nations boast globally recognized curriculum and degree programs. For students considering a master’s degree, Australia and New Zealand are options well worth consideration, but there is some difference between the programs offered in each nation.

Given the equality of academic standards and programs between the two countries, it is recommended that students review the particulars of an Australia master’s degree versus a New Zealand master’s degree program to determine which best meets their academic goals, learning style and scheduling obligations.

Master’s Degree – Australia Overview

To complete a master’s degree, Australia universities require students to complete an average of 1.5 to 2 years of study. There are some exceptions, however. At some universities in Australia, master’s degrees may be earned in as little as one year. Students may select from two different routes of study to earn a master’s degree. Australian universities offer master’s by coursework and by research programs. A master’s by coursework degree consists of 70-80% class work and 20-30% research. The research requirement involves completion of a minor thesis project during the latter portion of the degree program. An Australia master’s degree by research, on the other hand, is entirely research driven. This intensive program requires self-directed research that results in the creation of a thesis or project under the guidance of a supervisory professor.

To apply for these degree programs, students must hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field of study. Additionally, students applying for an Australia master’s degree by research must have research experience or hold a bachelor’s of honors degree.

Master’s Degree – New Zealand Overview

To complete a master’s degree, New Zealand universities require students to complete two years of study. Students that have accumulated significant research experience or who hold either a bachelor’s degree of honors or postgraduate diploma may complete their master’s degree in one year, however.

Typically, a New Zealand master’s degree is consists of equal parts coursework and research. During the first year, students complete class work and related projects. While the structure of the first year differs little between universities, there may be some flexibility in the classes student select.

The second year of a New Zealand master’s degree program, on the other hand, is research driven. Students are expected to complete a major project or thesis focusing upon their desired area of interest.

While universities in both nations offer exceptional academic programs, there is a difference between the requirements and curriculum of Australia and New Zealand master’s degree programs. To find the best fit, it is recommended that students consider their learning styles and goals when evaluating the programs.

Susan Slobac advises college students on study abroad opportunities in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. She provides guidance in regards to specialized programs such as New Zealand and Australia masters degree opportunities.

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Visa Information to Study in Australia

admin — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:03:15 +0000

A student visa to study in Australia will only be granted if you satisfy the visa requirements and visa conditions for attendance and academic performance which come into effect after you have entered Australia. It is important to comply with your visa conditions to avoid visa cancellation.

You can apply under the visa option for your principal course of study.

You can apply for Vocational education and training to grant Certificates I, II, III or IV (except ELICOS), diploma, advanced diploma, vocational graduate certificate or vocational graduate diploma courses.

Visa for Higher Education applies to a Bachelor degree, associate degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, or Masters. On this student Visa you can study in Australia and eligible dependant family members can accompany you to Australia when you have commenced your course of study in Australia, you can work up to 20 hours per week while your course is going on and for unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.

Visa for Postgraduate research applies to Masters by research or a doctoral degree. When you start your course of study in Australia, you can work up to 20 hours per week while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. As you are doing a postgraduate course, your family members can work unlimited hours once you commence this course.

Visa for non-award studies are for full-time courses or components of courses or foundation studies that do not lead to an Australian award.

Visa for Student Guardians/Parents or relatives can apply for a visa to stay in Australia as the guardian of a student who is studying in Australia.

Financial requirements for Visa Application

While applying for a visa you must have enough money to pay for travel, tuition and living expenses for yourself, your partner and your dependent children for the duration of your stay in Australia.

Health requirements for Visa Application

While applying for an Australian Visa you must meet certain health requirements and may need to undergo a health examination. The requirements vary based on your length of study in Australia and/ or other health risks in your home country or countries you have visited for more than three months within the last five years.

Health insurance for Visa Application

When applying for an Australian visa you must have health insurance while in Australia. Health insurance can be provided by obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) which provides medical and hospital insurance.

English language skills for Visa Application

You can take the Academic or General IELTS test to meet English Language requirements for a student visa. English language skills are required if you are applying for direct entry into a course, you must have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or above. If you are going to Australia to do an ELICOS course before your main course, you must have an IELTS score of at least 5.0. You can study a preliminary English course for up to 30 weeks. You must take the IELTS test within two years prior to the date of your application.

Sumit Gurg provides information about Study Options in India, Study Abroad, and other College information. For more details, visit: http://www.studytimes.com

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Application Procedure to Study in Australia

admin — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:02:04 +0000

Study Undergraduate Courses in Australia

To study undergraduate courses in Australia you will need an Australia Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12), or the overseas equivalent like a 10+2 from a recognized board from India. Some undergraduate courses may also have specific pre-requisite subjects.

Study Post Graduate Courses in Australia

An admission to a master degree course or a post graduate course in Australia requires a bachelor’s degree. A Masters Degree takes either one year after a Bachelor Degree with honours or two years after a Bachelor Degree.

Procuring Application Form to Study in Australia

If you want to study in Australia then send inquiries at least 12 months before the proposed date of admission. This means that you have to shortlist the Universities that you want to apply to prior to that.

There are three ways to get application forms to study in Australia:

o You can request the Application Forms via email from the universities website. Most universities have a form on their website which can be completed online to request application material.

o You can also download the form as many universities have a downloadable and ready to print versions of their application forms on the net. These forms can be used for applying just as regular forms.

o There are University representatives in most countries which assists students with the entire application procedure. You can also get the application forms from many authorized representatives of Australian Universities in your country.

Academic Calendar to Study in Australia

Mostly the courses at the University level run from early March to late November. The year is usually divided into two semesters. However, some institutions offer a trimester system. Lot of Universities in Australia run summer schools from December to February.

To study Undergraduate and postgraduate by courses the students enroll for their courses at the beginning of the year. Australian universities do allow enrollment in mid-year (around July) for certain courses.

Students may be able to negotiate an alternative starting date with their study supervisor for course of study towards a Doctoral Degree or other postgraduate research awards.

You can take admission any time of the year for Foundation studies as they have student intakes at several times during the year.

The application procedure to Study in Australia is simplified. You can take up Undergraduate courses or post graduate courses on the basis of your past education background if it fulfills the admission criteria of individual Universities. The academic year in Australian Universities usually start in March and end in November. Most Universities also run summer school from December to February.

Author provides information about study in India, Abroad, Study in Australia, Study in UK, US and Canada. Get all details about universities and colleges in India.

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Understanding the Education System to Study in Australia

admin — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:00:02 +0000

School Education in Australia School education in Australia covers a range of academic disciplines and vocational courses which prepare the student for university entry, for further training programs or to enter the workforce. The school studies follow a mixed format of directed classroom studies, extensive written assessments, formal examinations and may include common assessment tasks. Depending on course alternatives, as a student studying in Australia might also apply skills, demonstrate understandings, and undertake performance, project, group and field-work activities. The Senior Secondary Certificate of Education is known by different titles according to the State and Territory issuing authority in that region of Australia. Australian Vocational Education and Training Qualifications The qualifications offered to students studying at vocational education and training institutions in Australia are Certificates I-IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma. They meet national industry standards and will prepare the student for employment in a host of occupations or for further studies. University Qualifications in Australia Associate Degree offered to students is a two year qualification following year 12 or equivalent, or Certificate III or IV. It is a shorter higher education qualification offering an exit point at the sub-degree level, or a fully articulated pathway into the Bachelor Degree for further in-depth study and professional preparation, or articulation into an Advanced Diploma for specialist industry competencies. The Bachelor degree offered to students to study in Australia is the fundamental university qualification and is the basic qualification for entry to the professions. Some professions may require additional vocational qualifications as a condition of entry. Graduate Certificates offered to students is of 6 month duration which typically involves broadening individual skills already gained in an undergraduate program, or developing vocational knowledge and skills in a new professional area. Graduate Diplomas offered to students to study in Austrailia is usually of 12 months duration to broaden individual skills obtained in an undergraduate program or develops vocational knowledge and skills in a new professional area. This qualification can also be described as further specialisation within a systematic and coherent body of knowledge. The Masters Degree offered to students involves enhancing specific professional or vocational skills. The Masters Degree is typically gained by research or coursework or a combination. Study at master level involves acquiring in-depth understanding of a specific area of knowledge usually by independent research. A Masters Degree takes either one year after a Bachelor Degree with honours or two years after a Bachelor Degree. The Doctoral Degree offered to students is the highest award offered by Australian universities as per the Australian education system and takes typically 3 years to complete. Although it is a research degree, some programs may have a course work component. There are three parts to a Doctoral Degree: Part one involves searching review of the literature, experimentation or other systemic approach to a body of knowledge. Part two involves an original research project resulting in a significant contribution to knowledge and understanding and/or the application of knowledge within a discipline or field of study. Part three involves a substantial and well-ordered thesis, demonstrating the relationship of the research to the broader framework of the discipline or field of study. The study in Australia is evolved and has a variety of options for students to study. School Education in Australia caters to primary and secondary schooling. Australian Vocational Education and Training Qualifications give Certificates I-IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma to students. University Qualifications in Australia offer Associate Degree, The Bachelor degree, Masters Degree and Doctoral Degree. Sumit Gurg provides information about Study Options in India, Study Abroad and other College information. For more details, visit: http://www.studytimes.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gurg_Sumit_Kumar

Earn an MBA in Australia

admin — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:12:32 +0000

Students desiring to earn a degree in Australia or New Zealand will find many challenging and exciting programs from which to choose. While all programs offer outstanding academics from globally recognized institutions, one of the most popular degree programs is the MBA. Australia and New Zealand both offer challenging programs at a number of universities. There are ample opportunities for business students to acquire a top-notch education from a global perspective when pursuing an MBA in New Zealand or Australia.

Not a cookie-cutter MBA program

One of the greatest benefits for students seeking an MBA in Australia or New Zealand is the wide selection of programs of study available. Students will find a number of specialities, including all areas of business, commerce, management and international business, from which they can select. It is possible to choose either a specialized or more broadly focused route for a Masters in Business or an MBA. New Zealand and Australian masters degree programs enable students to pursue their desired form of study and better prepare them for career goals.

An additional benefit of pursuing an MBA in Australia or New Zealand is the unique perspective offered within the program of studies. Programs at universities in both nations focus upon the Asia-Pacific region. Consequently, students are provided a unique global perspective as well as insight into some of today’s most rapidly developing economies.

Requirements for an MBA in New Zealand or Australia

Before selecting an MBA program, students are wise to review the specifics thoroughly. There is some variation in the requirements for earning an MBA in Australia and New Zealand. Programs can take anywhere from one to two years to complete. In addition, some universities require no work experience while others require as little as one or as many as five years of actual experience before students may enroll.

There one more consideration for in evaluating any MBA. Australia and New Zealand universities, for the most part, do not mandate the GMAT to earn an MBA in Australia or New Zealand, however, it is a prerequisite for some.

To ensure the best match between an MBA program, the student’s qualifications, academic and career goals, an in-depth review of each program is advisable. There are many exciting opportunities and benefits for students interested in pursuing an MBA in New Zealand and Australia. Taking the time to research all available options enables students to identify the best degree program for their academic and career goals.

Susan Slobac advises college students on taking advantage of opportunities to study abroad. She specializes in working with students interested in pursuing a degree in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

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Studying Undergraduate in Australia

admin — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:09:27 +0000

Choosing Australia as your educational destination is probably one of the best decisions you can make. The cheap tuition fees, world renowned education facilities and excellent faculty, the relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, the welcoming people, the beautiful weather and the tolerance for people of different cultures and races all make up Australia’s USP.

In order to be eligible to pursue any undergraduate course in Australia, students must have at least twelve years of education – elementary and secondary. If students want to apply to any university in Australia, they must include a copy of the grade-sheet or mark-sheet of their final examination. This grade or mark sheet should also be attested by the principle of the institution where the student has completed their education prior to this.

This is because we, in Australia believe in maintaining a high level of education and in order to do that, evaluating the performance level of our students is very important. Students also need to submit a report with details of their achievements in school. Extra-curricular and co-curricular activities can also be included in the report. If international students are not from schools where the medium of teaching is in English, it is to be ensured that their report cards or grade sheets be translated into English.

You can pursue a variety of subjects in Australia – arts, sciences and commercial studies. There are a number of courses wherein students can learn about music, acting, drawing, films, etc. More academic courses include English and social studies. Studying science and engineering in Australia is also a great choice because Australian institutes offer a great variety of courses.

One can study medicine, engineering, physics, chemistry, math, biology, psychology and a variety of other subjects. Getting a BBA degree from any of the reputed Australian colleges is also a wise choice because Australia is a fast-growing economy and job opportunities are wide and varied here.

On the whole, studying undergraduate in Australia is a great option for international students because the able teaching staff, friendly people, great weather and secure environment in Australia all make for a complete educational experience.

Click here for more information on studying in Australian Universities.

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Research Driven Education – PhD Study in Australia and New Zealand

admin — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 16:46:02 +0000

For graduate students interested in pursuing a doctorate, New Zealand and Australia offer compelling programs well worth consideration. Universities in both countries provide doctoral programs that are research driven and include little class work. While most programs in North American institutions involve a greater amount of class work, PhD study in Australia and New Zealand provide students with a greater opportunity to make actual contributions to their field through research.

To earn a PhD, Australia and New Zealand universities typically require students to complete three years of work. During this time, students are provided with access to world-class research facilities. In addition to top-notch resources, those studying for a doctorate in Australia or New Zealand are matched with a faculty member that acts as a supervisor. Support is readily available to insure doctoral candidates can take full advantage of all available opportunities.

Requirements for PhD Study in Australia and New Zealand

To be considered for a PhD, Australia and New Zealand universities require students to complete a Master’s degree first. In fact, if a Master’s degree is missing, universities inevitably delay processing the application altogether. To get on track for PhD study in Australia or New Zealand, it is recommended that students first enroll in a Master’s program. After some time, it will be possible to convert to a PhD program within the university.

Applying for a doctorate in New Zealand and Australia

The application process for a PhD program is more time consuming than for undergraduate degrees since the degree itself is more customized and research driven. A descriptive outline of the intended research as well as a current CV is required to apply for a Doctorate. New Zealand and Australia universities then use this information to match doctoral candidates with supervisors from their faculty. The quality of this match is critical for doctoral candidates, as supervisors play a significant support role in the process. For this reasons, candidates do well to consider potential supervisors as well as potential universities when applying for PhD study in Australia or New Zealand.

Once an application for PhD study in Australia or New Zealand has been accepted, doctoral candidates can coordinate an exact start date with their supervisor. Because the degree work is research driven, students are not tied to the usual university schedule. Technically, research can begin at any time of the year.

Susan Slobac advises college students on study abroad opportunities throughout the South Pacific. She provides guidance in regards to specialized programs such as PhD study in Australia and New Zealand

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