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Charles Darwin University

  • About Charles Darwin University

    Turn your passion into a profession
    Choose from over 300 and degrees in education, health, law, business, psychology, engineering, IT, social work and more. Whether you're starting fresh or building on experience, CDU offers a flexible study experience that fits around your life.

  • Flexible Study, Your Way

    Study online or on campus, full-time or part-time. With more than 30 years of expertise in distance and online learning, CDU delivers engaging, accredited courses supported with 24/7 resources, interactive tools and real-time connection to your lecturers and peers.

  • The CDU Difference

    Inspired by our namesake, Charles Darwin, we think differently. We embrace innovation, challenge convention, and believe education should be inclusive, practical and purpose driven. CDU is about what you can give the world, not just what you take from it.

  • You make CDU

    Your background, experience, and ideas matter. CDU is enriched by the diverse voices of its students. Your unique perspective helps us grow, innovate, and lead positive change.

  • Highly Ranked Outcomes

    Join Australia's number one dual sector university for employment outcomes (Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching 2024) and the nation’s most equitable university (Australian Financial Review).

  • Personalised Support and Services

    Whether you choose to study from anywhere online, or from any one of our 11 campuses and centres across Australia, you’ll be supported every step of the way. No matter where you are, you’ll have easy access to a range of academic support, career guidance, and inclusive services, such as:

    • Academic skills and career advice
    • Free tutoring and mentoring
    • First Nations student support
    • Accessibility and wellbeing services
    • Library and distance learning services
  • Pathways to University

    No ? No problem.

    CDU offers alternative pathways, such as the Tertiary Enabling Program, that can get you university-ready in as little as 16 weeks. There's also tailored entry support for First Nations students through programs in law, business and more.

  • Admission and Entry Options

    CDU considers a range of qualifications from ATARs and credentials to work experience and enabling programs. Some courses have limited places and may select students based on merit, so consider including a pathway course in your as a backup.

    CDU offers a range of flexible options to help you start or continue your studies:

    • : Boost your entry rank based on criteria.
    • Deferment: Most courses can be deferred for up to one year, including midyear intakes.
    • : Receive credit for previous study, including:
      • from CDU or other
      • Selected units in the Tertiary Enabling Program (GPA 5+)
      • or TAFE courses at Certificate IV and above

    For full details, visit cdu.edu.au/current-students/student-admin/advanced-standing

  • 2027 Academic Year

    Depending on your course, you may apply to start studying at CDU in Semester 1, Semester 2 or Summer Semester.

    Dates change annually.

    Semester 1: Teaching starts 1 March 2027
    Semester 2: Teaching starts 19 July 2027
    Summer Semester: Teaching starts 15 November 2027

    For other periods, visit cdu.edu.au/current-students/studentadmin/important-dates

  • Scholarships and Financial Support

    CDU offers a wide range of scholarships funded by government, community, and industry partners. Scholarships support all kinds of students—whether you're a school leaver, a First Nations student, or returning to study.

    Northern Territory school leavers: CDU supports Northern Territory students with scholarships of up to $26,000, adjustments, and dedicated transition support.

    For more information, visit cdu.edu.au/scholarships

  • Access, Inclusion and First Nations Support

    CDU is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students. Our Access and Inclusion team offers free and confidential support if your studies are affected by disability, health conditions, mental health, carer responsibilities, or other personal circumstances.

    CDU’s dedicated First Nations Student Support team provides tailored support for Australian First Nations students throughout their study journey, from admission and enrolment to orientation, tutoring, and cultural connection.

    If you haven’t studied in a while or don’t meet standard entry requirements, programs such as the First Nations Introduction to University Program or the Tertiary Enabling Program are available.

  • Life at CDU

    Accommodation

    Live on-campus at CDU Village Casuarina or nearby at UniLodge Darwin. CDU also helps with off-campus housing advice and support. Learn more at cdu.edu.au/locations/casuarina-campus/casuarina-accommodation
     

    Transport

    Travel from Darwin's CBD to Casuarina village, all for free. CDU provide a private shuttle bus service to and from Danala and Casuarina Campuses, including the on-campus accommodation exclusively for CDU students. For timetables, see cdu.edu.au/current-students/life-health-wellbeing/bus-service
     

    Student life

    Get involved in clubs, sport, and events. Access counselling, health services and recreational facilities to support your wellbeing. Find out more at cdu.edu.au/study/student-life
     

    Library

    Study your way with 24/7 online access, expert librarian help, and dedicated research support. On-campus or remote, you’re covered. Find out more about the library at cdu.edu.au/library


    Counselling

    Everyone faces personal challenges from time to time, and juggling study with life’s demands isn’t always easy. Counselling via CDU’s Student Support Services is here to support you when things get tough and start affecting your studies.

    Our qualified counsellors—registered social workers and psychologists—specialise in mental health and wellbeing. They're here to listen, guide, and help you navigate life’s challenges in a safe, confidential space. Learn more at cdu.edu.au/currentstudents/life-health-wellbeing

    Advice on how to enrol will be included in your letter.

  • Join Us

    Explore courses, download course guides or get in touch with Student Central on 1800 061 963 or student.central@cdu.edu.au. Stay connected via Facebook and Instagram and check out.

  • Locations

    Casuarina
    Larrakia Country
    Orange 1.1
    Ellengowan Drive, NT

    Danala | Education and Community Precinct
    Larrakia Country
    54 Cavenagh Street, Darwin NT

    Darwin Waterfront
    Larrakia Country
    21 Kitchener Drive, Darwin NT

    Palmerston
    Larrakia Country
    University Avenue, Palmerston NT

    Alice Springs
    Arrernte Country
    Grevillea Drive, Alice Springs NT

    Katherine Town Centre
    Jawoyn, Wardaman and Dagoman Country
    19 Second Street, Katherine NT

    Katherine Rural
    Jawoyn, Wardaman and Dagoman Country
    Lot 5626 (16km North of Katherine)
    Stuart Highway, Katherine NT

    Nhulunbuy
    Yoŋlu Country
    Lot 1468 Dartnall Close, Nhulunbuy NT

    Sydney
    Level 10, 815 George Street,
    Haymarket, Sydney, NSW

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