Community Health, Nutrition and Exercise Science Placements in Fiji
Program Location: Fiji, South Pacific
Program Dates: July 10th, 2025 - July 25th, 2025 (TBC)
Application Deadline: April 7th, 2025
Places Available: up to 24 New Colombo Plan (NCP) funded places valued at $3900
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to our Pacific neighbours in Fiji, where adventure meets altruism? Imagine yourself immersed in a unique blend of community health, nutrition, and exercise science, all against the backdrop of Fiji's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
This isn't just any ordinary placement; it's a transformative experience designed for upper-level students from various health sciences disciplines. Partnering with prestigious institutions like the University of South Pacific and our partner organisation Think Pacific, along with the esteemed Fijian Ministry of Health and other organisations.
From July 10th to July 25th, 2025, Up to 20 participants will immerse themselves in a comprehensive 16-day health study tour and placement. Beginning with insightful sessions from health experts in Suva, you'll delve deep into the intricacies of healthcare while complementing your learning with engaging field trips.
But the real adventure begins when you step foot into a traditional Fijian village, where you'll become an integral part of the community. Living with a Fijian family, you'll not only embrace their culture but also contribute to vital health, nutrition, sport, and youth initiatives. From assisting with health programs to engaging in grassroots efforts, you'll make a tangible difference while gaining invaluable first hand experiences.
This isn't just about acquiring knowledge; it's about forging lifelong connections, broadening horizons, and making a positive impact on global health. So, take this opportunity to expand your skills, challenge yourself, and embark on a journey of discovery in the scenic paradise of Fiji.
Apply now before April 7th, 2025 and be part of something truly extraordinary!
Academic Eligibility and Overview |
|
Area of Study |
Health Sciences, Nutrition, Dietetics, Exercise Science |
Degree type |
Undergraduate (inc. Honours) |
Eligibility |
An actively enrolled Flinders student. Be deemed suitable to represent Flinders University overseas |
Language of instruction |
English |
Credit (Academic Recognition) |
Access to a 4.5 unit of credit toward academic program HLTH3106 Health Work Internship NUTD3110 Independent Studies in Nutrition NUTD4106 Independent Studies in Nutrition & Dietetics EXSC3002 Professional Practice in Exercise Science On successful completion of the study tour/assessment, students should be eligible to receive 4.5 units of credit. |
GPA |
Recommended 4.5 above |
Travel Scholarships Available
The program is supported by the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan (NCP). For eligible students, the cost of this program can offset by:
- AUD $3,920 Australian Government New Colombo Plan Grant
- RA Simpson International Scholarship AUD $500 (subject to meeting eligibility requirements)
- OS-HELP up to AUD $9,893 (conditions apply)
If you are an international student, permanent resident or do not meet the eligibility for an NCP Grant, you may still participate and be offered an RA Simpson Scholarship AUD $500 (conditions apply). If you are a Post-Graduate, commonwealth-supported student, you are eligible to apply for OS-HELP up to AUD $9,504 (conditions apply).
For more details on eligibility, see the ‘Finances’ section below.
Program Costs (Indicative)
The cost of this study program is being finalised but around AUD $3000
The cost will cover:
- Academic and Think Pacific support and mentorship for the 16-day program
- Study program with University South Pacific, field visits, cultural events and Village homestay
- Airport pickup - transfer to accommodation, welcome pack & detailed orientation
- All in-country transport and costs
- Accommodation, inclusive of Wi-Fi (where available)
- Breakfast, lunches and most dinners and celebratory events
- Regular organised events, trips & activities throughout the program
- Travel insurance (through the University)
The cost will not include:
- Return international flights (cost approx. $1000-$1500)
- Visa (not necessary if citizen of Australia & most other Asia & Oceania countries)
- Vaccinations/medical arrangements (please consult your topic coordinator and medical professional prior to departure for vaccination advice)
- Independent trips, shopping, and other meals
Flinders University reserves the right to alter the program cost at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by its partners.
All students that participate in this program will be covered by the university’s travel insurance. Please note this cover is limited. It is advised that you read the Flinders University Travel and Insurance schedule of benefits. Before you go, know what is covered and what is not covered.
Insurance Registration required
Ask Flinders query – room in study plan
Students who do not have any of these topics (HLTH3106, NUTD3110, NUTD4106, EXSC3002) available in their study-plan and listed above should submit an online enquiry via Ask Flinders (click “Request Support”) and have your study plan checked by the College before applying. Please ask the following question in your enquiry:
Do I have a 4.5 unit topic (specify topic) available that will allow me to participate in the NCP program titled “Community Health, Nutrition and Exercise Science Placements in Fiji”?
Alternatively, contact your Course Coordinator for advice on how you can fit this topic within your study plan. You can be enrolled in either availability NS1 or NS2.
Once you confirm that you have space in your program, submit an Expression of Interest by 5pm, 7 April 2025.
Bachelor Health Science undergraduate students (BHS, BHSMOT, BHSMPT)-send EOI to Louisa Matwiejczyk, Senior Lecturer louisa.matwiejczyk@flinders.edu.au
Bachelor Exercise Science students-send EOI to Chris Rawlings, Lecturer chris.rawlings@flinders.edu.au
Bachelor Human Nutrition students & Bachelor of Nutrition & Dietetic students – send EOI to Dr Kacie Dickinson, Lecturer E: kacie.dickinson@flinders.edu.au
Write your EOI on template (approximately 1/2 page. 1 page max.) and address the following questions:
Include - student first/last name, student ID, student email, GPA, year level, student program name (degree). Ideally, include a screenshot/copy of your study plan showing room for the relevant topic.
· Why do you want to apply for this program?
· How will participating in this program benefit you and your study?
· What are some of the skills and/or personal attributes that you could bring to this program?
Please contact the relevant academic for detailed information about this program.
· B.Health Science: Dr Louisa Matwiejczyk
louisa.matwiejczyk@flinders.edu.au
· B. Human Nutrition or B. Nutrition & Dietetics: Dr Kacie Dickinson
kacie.dickinson@flinders.edu.au
· B. Exercise Science: Chris Rawlings
"I can honestly say that this trip has been one of the best experiences I have had thus far in my personal and academic career
. I cannot think of a better group of girls to travel with or a better way to start my final year placement before becoming a health practitioner. The experiences encountered in the three-week in-country trip will be ones I will notably treasure (and can’t begin to describe in one thousand words)."
Olivia, 2021 Master of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
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