Our study tour programs run for two to four weeks, over the summer and winter semester breaks, and give you the opportunity to learn about industries in other countries and make a difference to the communities you visit.

Benefits of an overseas study tour

Academic-led, overseas study tours offer incredible learning experiences that combine the adventure of travel as well as the opportunity to gain 12.5 credit points (one full unit) of academic credit.

Other benefits also include:

  • You’ll get the chance to travel with a group of like-minded Swinburne students and make new friends along the way.
  • Study tours are led by an experienced Swinburne academic staff member.
  • Through our partners, you’ll gain unique access to companies, industry and communities around the globe.
  • You’re given the chance to continue your academic progress towards your degree and see the world in the process.
  • A number of our Study Tours have New Colombo Plan funding available for eligible students- which means money in your pocket to help offset the costs.

Group trekking through the mountains and enjoying the sunshine

How do overseas study tours work? 

Swinburne Abroad and academics work together to design our range of study tours.

When you register your interest or apply for a study tour, you’ll be invited to attend an information session to give you full details about what’s involved in that particular program. You’ll be guided through the application process by our team and kept up to date from the moment you apply until your tour departs.

Pre-departure sessions packed with helpful information about your tour will be organised and you’ll get plenty of opportunities to meet the other students in your study group before you depart. 

You’ll be led by your Swinburne academic for the full tour and get the unique experience of visiting companies, industry and the local communities of the cities you are in. The study tour will also give you the opportunity to gain 12.5 credit points (one full unit) of academic credit through assessment pieces and reflections from your experience – which means you’ll be progressing towards your degree whilst seeing the world at the same time!

Sound like an incredible opportunity? It is! Check out our upcoming winter and summer study tours.

Explore our Study Tour Programs

Have a look at  the range of overseas study tour programs planned for the winter and summer breaks and see where in the world you could go. More detailed program information will be updated as it becomes available. You can also register your interest for an information session.

Not ready to go overseas yet? Check out virtual programs for an opportunity to gain global experience from the comfort of your own home.

Winter 2025 study tours

  • A lantern shop in Vietnam

    International Media Industries, Vietnam

    Experience the rapid growth and evolution of media industries and media cultures first-hand through the lens of Vietnam, where innovation is occurring at rapid speed and scale.

  • Panorama view of the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy

    Creative Practice and Culture Italy

    This program offers a unique opportunity to explore creativity and storytelling through the creation of artistic artefacts, reflective practices, and an appreciation of Italian culture, including screenings of Neo-Realist cinema classics.

Summer 2024/25 Study Tours

  • Berlin street during Berlin film festival

    Berlin Study Tour

    The Berlin Study Tour is a highly immersive experience that ignites passion, creativity and offers new insights into the world of international film and screen production. 

  • View of a towering temple from the water

    Business Culture and Practices - Thailand

    Develop your global career in one of the most dynamic cities in Asia, as you work with your peers and industry experts to deliver a project for a local client in Bangkok, Thailand.

  • Ho Chi Minh city skyline at night

    Business for Social Impact - Vietnam

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and society of Vietnam, while gaining real-world entrepreneurial and social impact experience.

  • Cybersecurity Beyond Borders in the Philippines

    Engage with cybercrime agencies and organisations in the Philippines during a two-week exchange of knowledge and understanding.

  • Hanoi red bridge. The wooden red painted bridge over the Hoan Kiem Lake connects the shore and the Jade Island on which Ngoc Son Temple stands

    Design Centred Vietnam

    This program will give you the rare opportunity to experience Vietnam from the eyes of local architects/interior designers and researchers. You’ll come home with enhanced cultural awareness and hands-on international design project experience.

  • Woman walking through Fushimi Inari Shrine

    Games and Animation in Japan: Tradition and Technology

    Travel to Japan to engage in academic, industry and cultural experiences to learn about the country’s famous contribution to animation, games and pop culture.

  • Aerial shot of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

    Global Perspectives in Creativity and Innovation | Vietnam

    This program provides an authentic opportunity to develop an understanding of creativity and innovation practices and performance from a range of businesses operating in Vietnam. 

  • Borobudur temple at sunrise, Java, Indonesia

    Indonesian Cultural Study Tour

    Embark on an immersive cultural study tour to Indonesia with a focus on economic development, ethical tourism and environmental sustainability.

  • Sunset across rice fields with the Candi Plaosan temple in the distance

    Shaping Futures: Climate Change in Indonesia

    Embark on an exhilarating journey to Indonesia, where you’ll tackle climate change head-on to shape futures and make a real difference.

  • Jakarta skyline at dusk

    Global Leaders in Indonesia

    This student leadership program will take you for two weeks to engage with various industries and communities in Indonesia. You will attend seminars, meetings, and company visits to interact with leaders, whilst also reflecting on your own sense of professional identity for improved employability.

  • Birds eye view of boat in Fiji.

    International Relations in Fiji

    Explore Fiji for 2 weeks, engaging with diverse stakeholders to grasp the nuanced history and politics of the nation within the broader Pacific and international landscape.

  • Kek Lok Si Buddhist Temple in Penang, Malaysia

    Sustainability in Engineering Design and Architecture in Malaysia

    Discover sustainable engineering and architecture in Malaysia. Attend seminars, visit iconic sites, and learn about environmental sustainability in real-world applications.

  • Sigiriya (Lion Rock) in Sri Lanka

    Cross-cultural Health Perspectives in Sri Lanka

    Explore a holistic and immersive cross-cultural learning experience on various aspects of health in Sri Lanka, one of Australia’s Asia-Pacific neighbours through academic seminars delivered, cultural activities and cross-cultural exchange with people in Sri Lanka.

Funding opportunities

Planning your finances is an important part of any overseas study program. There are a number of scholarships and funding opportunities to help you as a Swinburne student participate in overseas programs. Explore the full range of fee help options and scholarships. Two of the most common options include:

The New Colombo Plan (NCP) Mobility Program provides funding for Australian undergraduate students to participate in semester-based or short-term overseas program across the Indo-Pacific region. 

Some study tour programs have Australian government NCP Mobility grant funding available. These are listed on the study tour program pages and on our Fee Help and Scholarships page.

OS-HELP is available for credit-bearing international experiences, including exchange, study tours and overseas internships.

The OS-HELP Loan is an Australian Government scheme for Australian students that provides funding for international study experiences. This loan is added to your HECS debt, which you don’t have to repay until your income reaches the minimum repayment threshold.

The maximum loan amounts for 2024 are:

  • A$9,504 for destinations in the Asian region
  • A$7,921 for destinations in any other region

Visit our Fee Help and Scholarships page to learn more about OS-HELP Loan.

Interested in studying abroad?

Our friendly and well-travelled Swinburne Abroad team can help answer any questions about our overseas study programs.

Contact us