Charles Darwin University: Courses, Costs, Scholarships

Charles Darwin University

When selecting a university as an international student, we often consider more than just the campus or course offerings—the location plays a crucial role too. The environment we live in shapes us just as much as the degree we earn. With this in mind, it’s no wonder over 800,000 international students choose Australia for higher education. The country offers a vibrant lifestyle, and its universities consistently rank among the best globally.

As we explore top universities along Australia’s extensive coastline, we arrive at a city that honors the legacy of a revolutionary thinker. Welcome to Darwin, a city named after Charles Darwin, who reshaped our understanding of the world—just as studying in Australia can transform the lives of international students.

Situated here is Charles Darwin University (CDU). Let’s delve deeper into what makes this institution a great choice and how it can help evolve your career, much like Darwin’s Theory of Evolution reshaped the scientific world.

About Charles Darwin University

Established in 2003, Charles Darwin University (CDU) is Australia’s first dual-sector university, combining higher education with vocational training. Located in the heart of the Northern Territory, CDU is the only university in this vast region. However, its reach extends across Australia, with campuses in Darwin, Brisbane, and Sydney, and regional hubs like Alice Springs, Palmerston, and Katherine. Remarkably, CDU connects even to remote locations such as Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek, giving it a unique geographical presence unlike any other Australian university.

CDU is part of the prestigious Innovative Research Universities group in Australia, known for pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Over the next five years, CDU aims to become the most connected university in Australia, bridging students, communities, and industries like never before.

Charles Darwin University Ranking and Recognition

Let’s explore CDU’s global rankings to understand why it stands out as a top university for international students:

  • 76th in the Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Ranking 2024
  • 2nd in Australia for Postgraduate Full-Time Employment Outcomes (Good University Guide 2024)
  • 5th for supporting first-generation university students
  • 7th in Australia for full-time undergraduate employment and starting salaries (Good Universities Guide 2024)
  • 621–630 range in the QS World University Rankings 2025
  • 401–500 range in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2025
  • 937th globally in the Webometrics World University Rankings

Despite being established only in 2003, CDU is rapidly climbing the global rankings. Its determination and dedication have allowed it to compete with older institutions worldwide, thanks to exceptional courses taught by award-winning professors. It’s no surprise that over 21,000 international students choose CDU for their education and growth.

Course Offerings at Charles Darwin University

CDU offers a diverse range of 26 study areas, attracting international students with a variety of academic goals. Here are some popular programs:

Master’s Programs:

  • Master of Medical Laboratory Science
  • Master of Professional Accounting (Professional Practice)
  • MBA in Sustainable Leadership
  • Master of Project Management
  • Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary)
  • Master of Engineering
  • Master of Information Technology in Software Engineering
  • Master of Occupational Therapy
  • Master of Pharmacy
  • Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
  • Master of Data Science
  • Master of Environmental Management
  • Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-registration)

Bachelor’s Programs:

  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Architectural Design
  • Bachelor of Business
  • Bachelor of Accounting
  • Bachelor of Engineering
  • Bachelor of Social Work
  • Bachelor of Humanitarian Aid & Development
  • Bachelor of Education (Primary & Secondary)
  • Bachelor of Engineering Science
  • Bachelor of Exercise & Sports Science
  • Bachelor of Biomedical Science
  • Bachelor of Environmental Science
  • Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Nutrition
  • Bachelor of Psychological Science
  • Bachelor of Public Health
  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology
  • Bachelor of Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Science

CDU supports first-generation university students and ranks 7th in Australia for full-time undergraduate employment and starting salaries, making it a popular choice for bachelor’s degrees.

Intake Periods:

  • March
  • July
  • November

Eligibility Criteria for Charles Darwin University

Undergraduate Programs (UG):

  • Overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.
  • Indian students need at least 60% in their top 4 academic subjects (including English).

Postgraduate Programs (PG):

  • Overall IELTS score of 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each band).
  • Bachelor’s degree with at least 55% marks, equivalent to an Australian bachelor’s degree.

Specific courses may have additional requirements, such as specific grades, prior knowledge, or relevant work experience. Check CDU’s official website for detailed requirements.

Cost of Studying at Charles Darwin University

Studying at CDU is affordable, allowing students to focus on their education without financial stress. Here’s a breakdown of key expenses:

  • Annual living costs: Around AU$ 29,710
  • Tuition fees for undergraduate programs: AU$ 28,000 to AU$ 32,000 per year
  • Tuition fees for postgraduate programs: AU$ 34,000 to AU$ 37,000 per year

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, helping them gain work experience and earn extra income.

Scholarships for International Students at Charles Darwin University

CDU offers a variety of scholarships to ease the financial burden on international students:

Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarship (VCIHAS):

  • 50% tuition fee for the full course duration
  • Requirements: 95% overall score in the highest qualification, meet academic and English requirements, maintain a GPA of 5.3, no fail grades, full-time enrollment of 40 credit points per semester.

CDU Global Merit Scholarship 2024 & 2025:

  • 30% tuition fee for select courses
  • Requirements: Meet academic and English entry requirements, full-time on-campus study, automatically assessed during course application.

Dili International School Scholarship:

  • Tuition and accommodation fees reduced to AUD 12,900/year
  • Requirements: Full-time undergraduate study starting S1 2024 or S1 2025, maintain GPA of 5.3, no fail grades, full-time enrollment of 40 credit points per semester.

Campus Life at Charles Darwin University

CDU’s campus life is vibrant, with a strong sense of community. Here’s what students can expect:

  • Accommodation: On-campus or off-campus options available.
  • Cafeterias and Eateries: Quick coffee or leisurely lunches, campus cafeterias cater to all.
  • Transportation: Convenient public transport options.
  • Open Spaces: Lush gardens and open spaces for study or relaxation.
  • Post Office: On-campus post office for sending and receiving packages.
  • Nearby Attractions: Casuarina Beach and Casuarina Shopping Centre are close by.
  • Creative Energy: Centre for Youth and Music for budding artists and musicians.
  • Sports and Recreation: Basketball courts, football clubs, and more.

CDU offers career support services through the CDU Career Centre Portal, ensuring students are job-ready.

Charles Darwin University Employment Outcomes

CDU boasts impressive employment outcomes:

Postgraduate Employment:

  • Ranked 2nd in Australia for postgraduate employment.
  • 93% of postgraduate students find full-time work, with starting salaries of $68,400.

Undergraduate Employment:

  • 79% of undergraduates secure full-time jobs after graduation.
  • Typical starting salary: $61,400.

FAQs

  1. What happens if the program or research I support ends? If tied to a specific purpose, the University may redirect it to a similar purpose if continuing the original intent isn’t possible.
  2. What if the endowed fund balance isn’t enough for a scholarship or program? If the fund falls short, the capital may be fully used over time for the intended purpose.
  3. How do I transfer or change my course? Complete at least one unit in your current course, then submit the Course Transfer eForm on the CDU Portal. Transfers are only within the same university.
  4. How is a GPA calculated at CDU? GPA = (Total of achievable credit points × grade value) ÷ Total achievable credit points. For example, if your total score is 270 with 40 credit points, your GPA is 6.75.

For more detailed information or personalized advice, consider reaching out to KC Overseas Education, one of the top study abroad consultants in India.

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