Australian Catholic University Nursing Exchange
Introduction
The exchange program between The Catholic University of America and Australian Catholic University allows nursing students to experience international nursing while studying under the guidance of a world class university and faculty.
Each spring semester, the Catholic University School of Nursing offers an Exchange Program with the Australian Catholic University (ACU) School of Nursing. Not only will you be able to experience living in Australia, but also add an international dimension to your nursing education. Nursing students participate in this exchange during the months of January through June of each year. Catholic University students must be sophomores in good academic standing, and there are specific admission requirements in order for students to be considered for this exchange. Catholic University students participating in this learning opportunity must take specific courses during their preceding fall semester of study; consequently those students considering this program should consult with their School of Nursing Academic Advisor at the end of their Freshman Year of academic study. This permits an even match between the Catholic University curriculum program plan and the ACU courses that are completed during study abroad.
The City
Melbourne is a vibrant, culturally diverse and elegant city that is the second largest city in Australia - capital of Victoria - with a population of 3.8 million. Named as one of the world's most livable cities, Melbourne is Australia's premiere city of arts, sports, and festivals.
Institution & Facilities
The
Melbourne campus of
Australian Catholic University, located in the suburb of Fitzroy, is just a few minutes walk from the Business District. It includes a library, computer laboratories, cafeteria, lounge, chapel, and art gallery. Some of Melbourne's finest parks and gardens are located within walking distance of the campus.
Academics
Students enroll in four courses selected from the curriculum offered at the ACU School of Nursing and Midwifery. Exact course selection may vary by student, but students can see what courses they will take and how those courses will transfer by reviewing our
2025 Spring ACU Nursing Credit Approval Form.docx.
During their semester abroad, sophomores may be required to enroll in two Catholic University one-credit online courses (NURS 254B and NURS 371A) to give them supplemental academic material not taught in Australia. Students with questions regarding course selection should contact the Catholic University School of Nursing Undergraduate Program Director.
Housing Accommodation & Meals
Melbourne: Students may choose to live in a shared apartment or a homestay.
Homestay: Students who choose to live with a host family will have the opportunity to gain a closer understanding of Australian life. Accommodations for the homestay include a bedroom (linen provided), study space, and access to a bathroom, kitchen, and other facilities in the home. Students will also receive breakfast and dinner on weekdays, as well as breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the weekends. Homestays may be between 30 and 60 minutes travel time from the university.
Shared Apartment: Apartments in Melbourne have double bedrooms, and apartments in Brisbane have single bedrooms with a shared bathroom. Apartments are fully furnished and have a kitchen and shared communal space. Size ranges from two to six students.
In the past, Catholic University students have been housed at Cambridge Court, which provides accommodations for students from ACU, the University of Melbourne, RMIT and Victoria University. No meals are included.
Eligibility
Applicants must be full-time Catholic University students enrolled in the pre-nursing track. Applicants must be in good academic standing and not on disciplinary probation. In addition, they must have a :
- 3.2 cumulative GPA
- 2.75 GPA in all science courses required for BSN including A&PI, A&PII, Microbiology, and/or Chemistry
- B- or higher in all nursing courses
- Cumulative average of 75% or higher on Entrance HESI exam
Special health and visa requirements may apply depending on the determination of the individual determination of the Australian visa officer.
Student Voices
"While at ACU I was challenged academically in a way I had never expected. I was not familiar with the Australian style of teaching and learning. I was pushed to work much harder to adjust to their classes...Aside from school I also got to see another side of the world. I have learned so much about myself and made lifetime friends with the girls I traveled with. The city of Melbourne was such an exciting a fun place to live. Australia now holds a special place in my heart. I had never left the country before this experience and have a new appreciation for travel". Victoria Freshour Spring 2016
Exchange Scholars
Exchange Scholar programs at The Catholic University of America provide an immersive international experience for a limited number of highly qualified students. This exclusive opportunity enables students to study at a select group of prestigious universities worldwide. Exchange partner schools are selected on the basis of mission, academic excellence, dedication to internationalization, and a commitment to research.
Scholarships
Students may want to consider the following scholarships:
Additional scholarships may be found on the Office of Education Abroad's scholarship website.
