Situated between the Wet Tropics Bioregion and the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is the ideal base for exploring this incredibly diverse region and its human inhabitants. In this globally significant ecological setting, you will learn to read the landscape and conduct marine, terrestrial, and anthropological fieldwork in a cross-cultural context. Travel throughout North Queensland, exploring different ecosystems with high biodiversity and landscape values. From bushland to rainforest to the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll practice fieldwork techniques and observe some of Australia’s unique animal species.
This program offers residential housing, no homestays. Please visit the SIT Study Abroad website for details on the program highlights and details of coursework, educational excursions, and housing.
EARN A MINOR
Students studying on this SIT semester-length program can choose to simultaneously complete a minor, with no additional coursework or cost. At SIT, a minor is a minimum of 16 credits taken within a content area. This standout credential can help boost your future job or graduate school applications.
SIT's program in Far North Queensland Australia offers the choice to do a minor in environmental science or conservation biology. The Wet Tropics and Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Areas provide the wilderness backdrop for you to practice data collection on coral reefs, biodiversity assessments of rainforest ecosystems, and incorporate Aboriginal environmental perspectives into cross-disciplinary conservation and resource management discussions.
THE SIT DIFFERENCE
Experience immersive, field-based programs worldwide led by expert faculty.
Access a global network of experts, leaders & researchers.
Build real-world experience that stands out to employers and grad schools.
MONEY MATTERS
SIT has given an average of over $1.3 million in scholarships and grants to SIT Study Abroad students in recent years and is committed to ensuring you have the information necessary to apply for such funding. Our program costs include academics, excursions, accommodations, airport transfers, and health insurance. Meal arrangements vary by program. Be sure to discuss how study abroad costs are handled at your school with your study abroad advisor and read the website for more specific information. Learn more about financial aid.
HEAR FROM A FORMER STUDENT
"I wanted the opportunity to learn about rain forests and other tropical ecosystems, and this program had one of the best, hands-on learning programs for that topic. I loved the experiential learning format. We spent time living and studying in the rain forest, near the Great Barrier Reef, and with Aboriginal elders. I was also drawn to the Independent Study Project that is a fundamental part of the SIT study abroad experience. I spent a month working on my own research project at a policy NGO, which enabled me to learn a ton and gave me an impressive publication for future job applications. Additionally, it taught me a lot about independent work and prepared me well for live post-college because I had to find an academic adviser and host institution with whom to conduct my research on my own."
THIS IS SIT
SIT is a leader in immersive, field-based study abroad programs for undergraduates. We offer programs in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, as well as comparative programs in multiple locations. In addition to our rich history, our programs’ unique qualities – including exceptional locations, independent research, cultural immersion, and deep local networks – make our programs an ideal choice for an extraordinary, transformative study abroad experience.
Visit our website to explore program itineraries and excursions, hear from former students, and learn more about our expert faculty.
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