| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location:
Main campus in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. CDU also has campuses and centers across the NT, as well as in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Alice Springs.
Established:
2003, through a merger of several institutions (Northern Territory University, Centralian College, and the Menzies School of Health Research).
CDU offers a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational education and training (VET) courses across disciplines such as:
Engineering & IT
Business & Accounting
Health & Nursing
Education
Law & Social Sciences
Environmental & Indigenous Studies
Creative Arts & Humanities
Trades & Construction
Flexible Learning Options:
Known for its online and distance education offerings, making it a good choice for remote and part-time students.
Top 100 Young Universities (Times Higher Education rankings)
Strong focus on Indigenous education and research
Diverse student population and multicultural environment
Practical, hands-on learning
Research centers in areas like health, energy, and environment
Affordable tuition compared to many other Australian universities
Ranked in the Top 250 universities worldwide for impact (THE Impact Rankings)
High marks for graduate employment outcomes
Strong reputation in research, especially in tropical and desert knowledge, Indigenous leadership, and health
Welcomes students from all over the world
Offers scholarships, including Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarship
Support services: student housing, academic assistance, visa help, orientation programs
Laid-back lifestyle, tropical climate
Rich Indigenous culture
Access to natural attractions like Kakadu National Park
Smaller city = lower cost of living and less congestion
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood, Primary, or Secondary)
Bachelor of Engineering Science / Engineering Honours
Bachelor of Business
Bachelor of Accounting
Bachelor of Psychological Science
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Bachelor of Creative Arts
Bachelor of Information Technology
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Environmental Science
Master of Public Health
Master of Nursing Practice
Master of Teaching
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Information Technology
Master of Engineering
Master of Emergency and Disaster Management
Master of Indigenous Knowledge
Grad. Cert. in Business, Education, Health Research, IT, Emergency Management, etc.
CDU is a dual-sector university, meaning it offers both higher education and vocational training.
Trades (Construction, Electrotechnology, Automotive)
Hair and Beauty
Hospitality and Tourism
Community Services
Childcare
Health & Aged Care
Information Technology
Business & Administration
For those looking to pursue research at CDU:
Master by Research
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Key research areas:
Health and Human Sciences
Indigenous Knowledge and Leadership
Energy and Environment
Education and Social Policy
Engineering and IT
CDU is a leader in online education in Australia. Many programs are available in online, part-time, or blended formats, ideal for remote learners or working professionals.
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Nursing |
3 years |
$23,000 – $24,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business |
3 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Accounting |
3 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Education (Primary) |
4 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) |
4 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Engineering Science |
3 years |
$25,000 – $27,000 |
|
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $29,000 |
|
Bachelor of Information Technology |
3 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) |
4 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
Bachelor of Psychological Science |
3 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Bachelor of Social Work |
4 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Bachelor of Creative Arts |
3 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Environmental Science |
3 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
Bachelor of Indigenous Knowledge |
3 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Health Science |
3 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Master of Information Technology |
2 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
Master of Public Health |
2 years |
$24,000 – $26,000 |
|
Master of Engineering |
2 years |
$26,000 – $28,000 |
|
Master of Nursing Practice |
2 years |
$24,000 – $26,000 |
|
Master of Emergency and Disaster Management |
2 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) |
2 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Master of Indigenous Knowledge |
2 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) |
2 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Master of Environmental Management |
2 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
Master of Data Science |
2 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
Master of Health Research |
2 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – General |
3–4 years full-time |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
PhD in Health Sciences |
3–4 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
PhD in Indigenous Knowledge |
3–4 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
PhD in Engineering |
3–4 years |
$25,000 – $27,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Science |
3–4 years |
$24,000 – $26,000 |
|
PhD in Education |
3–4 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
PhD in Information Technology |
3–4 years |
$24,000 – $26,000 |
|
PhD in Social & Policy Studies |
3–4 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
PhD in Business and Economics |
3–4 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
Charles Darwin University is a well-regarded public university based in Darwin, Northern Territory, with a strong reputation for academic excellence, flexibility, and cultural diversity. It’s especially known for its inclusive environment and commitment to Indigenous education and research.
CDU offers a wide range of programs for international students at different levels:
Bachelor’s Degrees (e.g., Nursing, Business, IT, Engineering, Environmental Science, Education, Law)
Master’s Degrees (e.g., Public Health, MBA, Information Technology, Nursing Practice, Education)
PhD and Research Degrees
Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses
Pathway and English Language Programs
Many programs are available on-campus and online, allowing flexible study options.
Tuition Fees vary by program but typically range from:
$20,000 to $29,000 USD per year for Bachelor and Master programs.
PhD programs are around $23,000–$26,000 USD per year.
Cost of living in Darwin is more affordable compared to bigger Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
Estimated living cost: $15,000–$18,000 USD per year
CDU offers several scholarships specifically for international students, including:
Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarship (up to 50% off tuition)
Global Excellence Award
CDU International College Scholarships (for pathway and English programs)
Research students may be eligible for fully funded RTP scholarships
Scholarships are typically merit-based, focusing on academic excellence.
CDU offers comprehensive student support services, such as:
Orientation and transition support
International student advisers
Academic language and learning support
Career and employment services
Mental health and counselling
Student accommodation options on or near campus
CDU has a diverse student population, with people from more than 70 countries, and a strong focus on inclusive and multicultural learning.
Darwin is a tropical, relaxed city with beautiful natural surroundings.
It’s the gateway to some of Australia’s most famous national parks like Kakadu and Litchfield.
The community is welcoming and multicultural.
Being a smaller city, it’s easier to get around and has a lower cost of living compared to major Australian cities.
Vary by program and level, but generally include:
Academic qualifications equivalent to Australian standards
English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0–7.0 depending on program)
Some programs (like Nursing or Teaching) may have additional requirements (e.g., health checks, police clearance, work placements)
Start by selecting the course that best fits your interests and career goals. CDU offers programs in:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
Postgraduate (Master’s)
Research (PhD)
Vocational (VET) and pathway courses
You can explore programs on CDU’s official website or ask me for specific course details.
Each program has specific academic and English language requirements.
Undergraduate: Completion of high school (Year 12 or equivalent)
Postgraduate: A recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent
PhD: A master’s degree or honours degree in a related field
IELTS: 6.0–7.0 (depending on the course)
TOEFL / PTE Academic are also accepted
If your previous education was in English, you may be eligible for an English language waiver.
You’ll need to provide certified and translated (if applicable) copies of:
Academic transcripts and graduation certificates
English language test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Passport copy
CV/resume (for postgraduate courses)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal statement (if required)
Portfolio (for arts/design programs, if applicable)
You can apply in two ways:
Directly via CDU’s website:
Apply through the CDU international application portal.
Apply here
Through an approved CDU education agent in your country (recommended for visa guidance and support)
If you meet the requirements, CDU will send you a Letter of Offer (either unconditional or conditional).
Unconditional offer means you're ready to move forward.
Conditional offer means you need to meet specific requirements (e.g., English test, documents).
Once you receive the offer:
Sign and return the Acceptance Form
Pay the tuition deposit (as mentioned in your offer letter)
Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (a visa requirement)
After payment and OSHC confirmation, CDU will issue a CoE, which is needed to apply for a student visa (subclass 500).
Apply online through the Australian Immigration website using your CoE.
Include documents like CoE, passport, financials, OSHC, and GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement.
Once your visa is approved:
Book your flight
Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus)
Attend CDU’s orientation program for international students
CDU offers multiple intakes throughout the year, depending on the course level and type:
Semester 1: February/March
Semester 2: July
Semester 3 (Some courses only): October/November
Note: Some programs like Nursing, Teaching, and Health Sciences may only be available in February and July.
Multiple intake dates throughout the year (monthly or term-based depending on the course)
Completion of Year 12 or equivalent (senior secondary education)
Equivalent qualifications to the Australian ATAR (usually minimum 60–70)
Some programs (e.g., Nursing, Education, Law) have higher entry scores and additional requirements
A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field from a recognized institution
Some programs may require work experience or specific subject backgrounds
A Master’s degree with a research component, or an Honours Bachelor degree
Submission of a research proposal and acceptance by a CDU supervisor
Strong academic performance (usually equivalent to a distinction average or higher)
CDU accepts several tests to demonstrate English proficiency:
Test |
Undergraduate |
Postgraduate |
|---|---|---|
|
IELTS |
6.0 overall (no band < 6.0) |
6.5 overall (no band < 6.0) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
60–78 |
79–94 |
|
PTE Academic |
50–58 |
58–64 |
|
Cambridge (CAE) |
169–176 |
176–185 |
Some programs like Nursing or Education may require IELTS 7.0 or higher.
CDU may waive the English requirement if:
You’ve studied in English for a certain number of years
You’re from an English-speaking country
When applying for a student visa, you must satisfy the GTE criteria, proving your intention to study temporarily in Australia. This involves:
A statement explaining your academic goals
Evidence of financial capacity
Ties to your home country
Ranking System |
Category |
CDU Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global Universities |
Ranked 701–750 |
|
QS Top 50 Under 50 |
Best universities under 50 years |
Ranked in Top 100 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Global Universities |
Ranked #1140+ globally |
|
U.S. News |
Best in Australia/New Zealand |
Ranked #37–40 in Australia |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Impact Rankings (SDGs) |
Ranked in Top 250 globally |
|
THE World University Rankings |
Overall global rank |
Ranked 501–600 range |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value / Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarship (VCIHAS) |
High academic achievers (international students) |
25% or 50% tuition fee reduction |
|
CDU Global Excellence Award |
New international students with excellent academic records |
Up to 50% tuition fee reduction |
|
CDU Global Leader Award |
High-achieving applicants from select countries |
25% tuition fee reduction |
|
CDU International College Pathway Scholarship |
Students entering through CDU International College (Foundation/Pathway) |
Up to 30% tuition discount |
|
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship |
High-achieving research (PhD or Master's by research) applicants |
Full tuition + living stipend (~$30,000 AUD/year) |
|
Menzies International Student Scholarships |
For students enrolling in Public Health or Health-related postgraduate courses |
$10,000–$15,000 AUD (one-off grant) |
|
Australia Awards Scholarships (Australian Govt.) |
Citizens of eligible developing countries |
Full tuition, airfare, stipend, OSHC |
|
Destination Australia Scholarship (DAS) |
For students studying in regional Australia (including CDU campuses) |
$15,000 AUD/year |
Campus Location |
Accommodation Option |
Type |
Approx. Weekly Cost (USD) |
Features / Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Casuarina Campus (Darwin) |
International House Darwin (IHD) |
On-campus residence |
$125 – $215 |
Furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, shared kitchen, laundry, 24/7 security |
|
|
Private rentals / shared housing (off-campus) |
Apartment or shared house |
$130 – $250 |
Varies – electricity, internet may be extra |
|
Alice Springs Campus |
CDU-managed student accommodation |
On-campus/shared housing |
$100 – $180 |
Shared kitchen, common areas, laundry, Wi-Fi |
|
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane Campuses |
No CDU housing (students arrange privately) |
Off-campus apartment/rental |
$200 – $350 |
Shared or single apartments, near public transport |
|
CDU International College (Darwin) |
IHD or nearby private rentals |
On-campus or nearby housing |
$125 – $215 |
Ideal for pathway/Foundation students |
CDU has a welcoming and multicultural atmosphere, with students from more than 70 countries. It’s a relatively small university compared to big-city institutions, which makes it easier to form close connections with peers, faculty, and staff. The university also places a strong focus on Indigenous culture and education, making the campus experience both unique and meaningful.
The main campus is located in Darwin (Casuarina Campus), surrounded by tropical nature and a relaxed vibe. Campuses are well-equipped with modern classrooms, libraries, labs, student lounges, cafes, and quiet study areas. You'll find plenty of green space to relax or study outdoors, and it's easy to navigate due to its compact size.
Smaller campuses like Alice Springs, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer a city-based experience, catering to international and postgraduate students in particular.
Most international students live in on-campus accommodation (International House Darwin) or in shared private housing nearby. On-campus housing offers a safe and social environment, perfect for meeting people and joining activities.
Living costs are more affordable in Darwin compared to cities like Sydney or Melbourne, making CDU attractive for students on a budget.
CDU has a vibrant student life with plenty of opportunities to get involved:
Student clubs and societies (cultural, academic, sport, hobby-based)
Social events like welcome parties, BBQs, movie nights, game tournaments
Leadership and volunteering programs
Fitness and sports facilities (gym, outdoor courts, yoga classes)
Cultural celebrations (Harmony Day, NAIDOC Week, International Food Festival)
CDU offers strong support services to help students succeed:
International student advisors
Free academic skills workshops (writing, referencing, time management)
Career and employment services
Counselling and mental health support
Student mentoring programs
24/7 library access (online resources + study spaces)
Darwin is a laid-back, tropical city with a friendly community, stunning sunsets, and access to national parks, beaches, and wildlife. It’s also rich in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. The warm climate means outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and exploring markets are year-round options.
Students love visiting Mindil Beach Sunset Market, Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks, and enjoying weekend trips with friends.
Students at CDU often highlight:
The close-knit, supportive community
Easy access to lecturers and small class sizes
Opportunities for research and work placements
A unique location with adventure and culture
CDU emphasizes practical, hands-on experience through Work-Integrated Learning components across many of its programs. These include:
Internships
Clinical placements
Industry projects
Teaching practicums
Fieldwork and research-based placements
Programs such as Nursing, Education, Engineering, Social Work, Business, IT, and Law have compulsory placements built into the curriculum.
CDU is well-regarded for its graduate employment rates:
Top 10 in Australia for full-time graduate employment (Good Universities Guide)
Approximately 80–85% of CDU graduates find full-time employment within 4 months of graduation (varies by program)
Particularly strong outcomes in Health, Nursing, Education, and Engineering
CDU’s Career Centre offers a wide range of services to help students prepare for the workforce:
One-on-one career counselling and resume support
Job search assistance and access to CDU’s online job portal
Workshops on interview preparation, networking, and career planning
Industry networking events and career expos
Guidance for graduate visa (Temporary Graduate Visa - Subclass 485) applications
International students on a student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods (unlimited during breaks). CDU helps connect students with:
On-campus jobs
Casual work in hospitality, retail, and admin
Internship programs (sometimes paid)
Darwin, being a smaller city, offers a tight-knit job market, and many students find jobs in local businesses, especially during tourism season.
CDU partners with local, national, and international organizations to support student placements and job readiness. Industries where CDU students often find placement or employment include:
Healthcare (NT Health, Royal Darwin Hospital)
Education (NT schools, remote communities)
Engineering firms and mining companies
Environmental and research agencies
IT and digital technology startups
Non-profits and NGOs
CDU has growing research collaborations, and PhD students often have opportunities to:
Collaborate with government, industry, and Indigenous communities
Receive fully funded scholarships and stipends
Work on real-world, impact-driven projects
Strong graduate employability, especially in health, education, and STEM
Mandatory placements for most professional degrees
Career support available throughout your studies
Good part-time work opportunities in Darwin and other campuses
Practical, community-engaged learning focus
The acceptance rate of Charles Darwin University (CDU), Australia is estimated to be around 60% to 70% for international students.
CDU has a moderately selective admission process.
It is welcoming to international students, especially those who meet academic and English language requirements.
The university values diversity, inclusiveness, and academic potential more than just high-entry competition.
Courses like Nursing, Education, and Health Sciences may have slightly stricter entry standards, especially for placements and registration purposes.
Meet all academic requirements for your chosen course.
Submit a strong English language test score (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
Ensure all documents are clear, certified, and complete.
Include a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) for postgraduate courses.
Apply early, especially for high-demand courses or scholarship consideration.
Located in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory
Largest CDU campus with most undergraduate and postgraduate programs
Surrounded by tropical gardens and natural bushland
Home to International House Darwin (on-campus accommodation)
Located in Alice Springs, in the heart of the Northern Territory
Offers VET programs, higher education in nursing, education, and Indigenous studies
Smaller campus with strong community engagement
Focuses mainly on Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Also offers community services and trades programs
Located south of Darwin, serving regional and remote communities
Offers agricultural, Indigenous, and environmental training
Includes working farm facilities
Located in central Sydney
Offers postgraduate business and accounting programs for international students
No on-campus accommodation (students arrange housing independently)
Located in downtown Melbourne
Offers programs in business, IT, and education for international students
Offers select programs for international students
Business and IT-focused courses
Provides foundation, diploma, and English language pathway programs
Located at Casuarina Campus
