Program Spotlight: Gold Coast, Australia

Why you should study abroad in Gold Coast, Australia

If heading to the beach for a surf session after class sounds like the ideal college experience, then University Studies Abroad Consortium’s (USAC) Gold Coast, Australia, options might be the perfect place for you. Located along the east coast of Australia, this program offers the chance to live and study near some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches while also making it easy to head north, south, or west to explore the best of what the nation has to offer.  

Host institution and academics 

Griffith University offers three campuses across two cities: one campus in Gold Coast, and two campuses in Brisbane. A student’s campus placement is typically determined by their major or the courses they plan to take while abroad. 

No matter which campus you find yourself on, you will discover a wide range of course options, excellent academic and personal support, and opportunities to participate in various clubs and activities. 

All courses are taught in English, and there are many innovative and popular topics offered — from Multimedia Telecommunications to Aquatic Ecosystems, Internet Computing to Islam Studies, and Biomolecular Science to International Relations.  

As you may already realize, Australian semesters differ from those in the U.S. Trimester 1 runs from February to June, and Trimester 2 runs from July to October. You can choose to participate in both or just one. 

Brisbane South Bank campus

Internships 

Gold Coast is an excellent choice for students considering an internship abroad. Placement areas range from assisting in community gardens and schools, emergency services, Indigenous and Multicultural Services, and much more.  

Internships are available at all three Griffith University campuses, giving you the chance to experience service-learning opportunities in the nonprofit sector. 

Immersion activities 

Orient yourself in the Gold Coast by joining the optional getaway trip immediately following your mandatory orientation. The orientation, better known as O-Week, begins with a welcome session to meet your advisor and Griffith Mates (Griffith University’s buddy system), learn about life on campus, and participate in fun activities to get you acquainted with the other students.  

There are plenty of ways to get and stay connected on campus throughout the term. Student organizations host free and low-cost events for students to get together, plus there are more than 120 clubs and societies to choose from, so you’ll never be bored.  

The Griffith Mates also organize a wide variety of events, anything from interactive games to networking events, day trips to city walking tours, trivia nights to conversation circles, and sporting events to volunteering. 

USAC students pose with Griffith Mates

What alumni have to say 

Suagher Jacopo, a student from Italy, shared about his time in Gold Coast: “Studying abroad in Australia has truly been the best experience of my life. From attending classes at Griffith University to exploring the beaches of the Gold Coast, every day felt like a new adventure. I’ve met incredible people from all over the world, and together we’ve created memories that will last forever — from weekend trips to Sydney and Byron Bay to spontaneous getaways to Bali and Fiji.” 

Suagher continued, “This experience didn’t just expand my education; it expanded my view of the world. I’ve grown more independent, confident, and curious, and I’m grateful for every single moment of this journey. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, do it. It will change your life in ways you can’t even imagine.” 

Explore your options 

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