International experience

As an education student, you can gain international experience with either a Global Exchange or International Professional Experience (IPE).

Global exchange

Global Exchange allows you to study for one or two sessions at a partner university overseas. If you’re interested in Global Exchange, it’s important you start planning early – studying overseas can impact your study plan as early as second year.

As an education student, the best time to undertake an exchange is in sessions where Professional Experience do not occur:

second session of your second year of study, or
first session of your third year of study.

If you decide that you want to undertake exchange during other sessions, this may delay your course completion as Professional Experience subjects are only offered once a year and cannot be concurrently completed.

Students may choose to undertake elective subjects or direct equivalents at their Exchange university. Please note that due to teacher education compliance with external accrediting bodies, students applying for direct equivalents will be considered on a case-by-case basis only.

International Professional Experience (IPE)

Most UTS professional placements are local. However, you can also apply to an IPE placement in one of a number of overseas settings. The School selects one country for IPE placements each year. Previously, students have studied in countries such as Samoa, and Bhutan.

Note: This program is not currently available for 2019, but may be available in the future.

How to apply

You’ll receive an email calling for expressions of interest from your International Experience Coordinator about 12 months before the IPE takes place.

In-Country Study for BEd/BAIS students

If you’re a Bachelor of Education/BA International Studies student, visit International Studies In-Country Study page for more information on your study abroad year.

What the students say

Megan Bown
Bachelor of Education in Primary Education

“The most rewarding part about this IPE was being able to experience education in a different country, culture and structure.”

What the staff say

Dr Kimberley Pressick-Kilborn
Senior Lecturer, Teacher Education Program

The professional growth, as well as the personal growth, afforded by the IPE is something that is unique.