Study Abroad in Wellington: Pacific Studies in Fiji

Fiji

AIFS students enjoy a 10-day Pacific studies program at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji before the start of the Victoria University semester. The trip is included in the program fee. Students who book their flights with AIFS will fly LA-Fiji-Wellington at no extra cost to the regular LA-Wellington flight. Students who provide their own transportation must book their flight from U.S.-Fiji for the start of the semester program and onward from Fiji to Wellington on the appropriate date.

Famous for its palm-fringed white sandy beaches and clear azure seas, Fiji is paradise come true. This is only part of this South Pacific country’s allure - with over 300 islands in its archipelago Fiji has plenty to offer everyone, from abundant sea-life to rugged volcanoes and lush, green rainforest. Cultural roots and traditions are strong in Fiji and the population is an eclectic blend of indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians. English is the official language and visitors will find themselves greeted by a welcoming shout of “bula!”

Suva, located at the south-eastern corner of Fiji’s largest island, Viti Levu, is Fiji’s capital city and the largest city in the South Pacific with a population of 170,000. Once a flourishing colonial center, sights include fine historic buildings, rusting shipwrecks on the reef, the old cemetery with its Chinese area and a lively fish market.

Visas

Visas are not required in Fiji for U.S. citizens.

Housing and Meals

AIFS students will stay in double occupancy homestays with local families in the center of Suva. Singles are available at no extra cost. The families will provide transport every day to and from the campus, which is located just outside the city center. They will also provide breakfast and dinner every day. Students purchase their own lunch at the University cafeteria.

Academic program (2 credits)

Cultural Studies/Environmental Studies/History/Political Science 310 (2)
Pacific Studies: Culture, Environment, History and Politics
On this program students will have 4 lectures of 1.5 hours each on topics including environmental issues, history and politics of the Pacific region in general and Fiji in particular. The program includes over 30 hours of field trips to locations related to the topics covered in class as well as to activities which will provide an insight into and appreciation of the life and culture of Fiji.

The program includes classes, field trips, accommodations, breakfast and dinner daily, sightseeing and transportation.

Lecture topics:

• Pacific Prehistory and Settlement
• Pacific Colonial History
• Fiji Prehistory, History and Culture
• Contemporary Political Issues in the Pacific
• Environment and Development

Field trips include:

• Beachcomber Island
• Hindu Temple
• Walking Tour of Suva
• Community involvement activities
• Flea Market
• Kula Bird Park

Final Exam

Students will have a final exam based on lectures and visits, and will receive a final grade on the certificate of attendance from the University of the South Pacific.

• Video
• Photo Gallery