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Charles Darwin University

Darwin, Australia

  • Cost of LivingAU$ 18,929.76
  • Tuition Fee FromAU$ 4,500
  • Country Rank#34
  • Batch Strength6,665
  • Global Diversity28%
  • Gender Ratio68 : 32

Overview

About

Charles Darwin University (CDU) is a public university located in Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory in Australia. Established in 2003, it is named after the famous naturalist, Charles Darwin, who made significant contributions to the field of evolutionary biology. CDU offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various faculties, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, law, science, and technology. The university also offers research degrees and has several research institutes and centres that focus on areas such as tropical and desert health, natural and built environments, and social and policy research.

 

The university is known for its focus on Indigenous education and engagement. It has a strong commitment to working with Indigenous communities to promote education, training, and research that is culturally appropriate and respectful. CDU has established several research institutes and centres that focus on Indigenous issues, including the Northern Institute, the National Centre for Indigenous Studies, and the Menzies School of Health Research.

 

The university has a diverse student population, with students from over 50 different countries. The university has a strong reputation for providing a supportive learning environment, with small class sizes and personalised support services. CDU also offers flexible study options, including online and part-time study, which allows students to balance their studies with work and other commitments.

 

CDU has a strong reputation for research excellence, particularly in areas such as tropical and desert health, environmental science, and Indigenous studies. The university has been recognised for its research impact, with several research projects that have had significant real-world outcomes, such as improving Indigenous health outcomes and developing sustainable agriculture practices in tropical regions.

Ranking

QS World University Ranking 2024:

Charles Darwin University has shown excellence by securing 401–500 spot on the global scale.


The university is ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. Additionally, the university is ranked 20th in Australia in the QS World University Rankings 2022. CDU is also recognised as one of the top universities in the world for its focus on sustainability, as demonstrated by its ranking in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2021, where it is ranked 17th globally.

 

  • ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Universities Rankings (2022) - #801-900
  • QS - World University Ranking (2023) - #701-750
  • THE (Times Higher Education) - University Ranking (2023) - #351-400
  • US News & World Report - Global Universities (2023) - #959

 

Course Rankings -

The university offers courses at different levels. These courses are also ranked by various educational publications. The Life Science programme at the university has been consistently ranked by THE University Rankings. The programme’s ranking has improved from #301-350 to #251-300 over the past two years. The university is also known for its programmes in the field of Medicine. Below are a few course rankings of the university -

 

Science Courses

  • THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences Rankings (2023) - #251-300

 

Medicine Courses

  • ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Shanghai Nursing Rankings (2022) - #201-300
  • THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health Rankings (2023) - #501-600

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2023

#701 - 750

#959

2022

#701 - 750

#959

Facilities

The university campus is spread over multiple locations in Darwin and Alice Springs, with modern facilities and state-of-the-art equipment. The university has invested heavily in research infrastructure, with world-class facilities for research in areas such as tropical health and environmental science. Some of the key facilities at CDU include -

 

Libraries: The university has multiple libraries across its campuses, providing students with access to an extensive collection of books, journals, and online resources.

 

Student Accommodation: The university provides on-campus accommodation options for students, including apartments and dormitories.

 

Health Services: CDU offers a range of health services to its students, including medical and counselling services.

 

Sports and Recreation: The university has excellent sports and recreation facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, tennis courts, and sports fields.

 

Technology and Computing: CDU provides students with access to state-of-the-art computing facilities, including computer labs, wireless internet, and printing services.

 

Research Facilities: The university has a range of research facilities, including laboratories and specialised equipment, to support its research activities.

 

Art and Performance Spaces: There are dedicated spaces for art and performance, including a theatre, art galleries, and music studios.

 

Food and Beverage: The university has a range of cafes and restaurants across its campuses, offering a variety of food and beverage options.

 

Disability Services: The university provides support services for students with disabilities, including accessible facilities and assistive technology.

 

Career Services: The university offers career advice and support to students, including resume and job search assistance, career fairs, and networking events.

Notable Alumni

Vicki O'Halloran
Vicki O'Halloran
Australian Businesswoman
Lauren Moss
Lauren Moss
Australian Politician
Nadirsyah Hosen
Nadirsyah Hosen
Indonesian Researcher

Courses

Scholarship

Regardless of the program you are studying, there are several scholarship opportunities provided by the university as well as other organizations. With so many scholarships available now, overseas students can greatly lower the financial burden of studying in a new country. You can apply for scholarships to study at the Charles Darwin University through UniScholarz. You can find the following types of scholarships based on your academic performance and financial situation:


  • Merit-based scholarships

  • Need-based scholarships

  • Country-specific scholarships

  • College-specific scholarships

  • Student-specific scholarships

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the Charles Darwin University. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend the Charles Darwin University. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, en-suites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.


UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.

Cost of Living

Darwin is a vibrant and multicultural city, with a relaxed lifestyle and a strong focus on outdoor activities. As the capital of the Northern Territory, it offers a unique experience for students who are interested in exploring Australia's tropical north. Living in the city can get expensive sometimes. However, it is much cheaper when compared to neighbouring cities in Australia. Prices of groceries and food are a little higher than the national average. The cost of housing is more on the affordable side as it is cheaper than the national average. Below is a list of the expenses that prospective students should keep in mind -

 

Items

Cost

Off-Campus Accommodation 

AU$764

On-Campus Accommodation

AU$1,132

Transportation

AU$63

Food Cost

AU$440

Utility Cost

AU$310

Entertainment

AU$96

Groceries

AU$74

Clothes

AU$140

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

AU$1,887

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

AU$2,255

Annual Cost of Living

AU$22,650

Charles Darwin University Entry Requirements

Charles Darwin University offers over 300 programmes at different levels. Applications are accepted for the Fall and Spring semesters. The university has different entry requirements depending on the level of study and the programme that a student selects. Students can submit their applications on the university’s online portal. There is no fee for applying to the university. Below are the basic requirements needed for admission -

 

Undergraduate requirements

  • Passport copy showing all relevant information
  • Proof of English language proficiency test
  • A well-written Statement of Purpose 
  • Certified copies of all academic transcripts, award certificates including grading systems information and English translations (whenever applicable)
  • Resume
  • Other supporting documents.

 

Accepted English proficiency test scores

  • IELTS - 6.0
  • Cambridge Advanced English - 169
  • TOEFL - 60
  • Common European Framework Certificate of English Proficiency - B2
  • PTE - 50

 

Graduate requirements

  • Successful completion of a recognised bachelor's degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, master's degree or equivalent international qualification in the same or related discipline
  • English Language Requirements
  • Letter of Recommendations
  • Resume
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose(If applicable)

 

Accepted English proficiency test scores

  • IELTS - 6.5
  • Cambridge Advanced English - 176
  • TOEFL - 79 
  • Common European Framework Certificate of English Proficiency - C1
  • PTE - 58

 

Charles Darwin University Fees

The institution offers several programmes at different levels. Listed below are the fees based on various courses -

 

  • M.S Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) - A$32,850 /Year
  • M.S Nursing Studies (International) - A$32,850 /Year
  • M.B.A Sustainable Leadership - A$32,760 /Year
  • M.S Data Science - A$29,616 /Year
  • M.Eng Mechanical Engineering - A$34,680 /Year

 

Charles Darwin University Placement

Charles Darwin University has a strong focus on preparing students for the workforce and providing them with opportunities for career placement. The university has a dedicated Office of Work Integrated Learning, which helps students find internships, work experience, and graduate employment opportunities.

 

The university also offers a range of career development services to students, including career counselling, resume and cover letter writing assistance, and interview preparation. The university hosts career fairs and employer events throughout the year, providing students with the opportunity to network with potential employers. CDU has a strong track record in graduate employment, with around 87% of its graduates securing employment or further study within six months of graduating (according to the 2020 Good Universities Guide).

FAQs