Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Speech and Language Therapy (CRICOS course code 0101042) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 4 years. This dual qualification combines undergraduate health science with postgraduate speech and language therapy, preparing graduates for professional practice in speech pathology. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00300K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The programme is designed for those seeking a rewarding career helping people with communication and swallowing disorders. With a strong clinical focus and work-integrated learning, students gain real-world experience in diverse settings. Charles Darwin University, a public university in the Northern Territory, offers this programme at its Casuarina Campus in Darwin. International students benefit from Australia's ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and support.
Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Speech and Language Therapy (CRICOS 0101042) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 4 years. This integrated dual qualification allows students to complete both a bachelor's and master's degree in a streamlined pathway. The programme is classified under Field of Education 061309 - Community Health, reflecting its focus on public health and community well-being. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as speech pathologists with Speech Pathology Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, guaranteeing that international students receive the same quality assurance as domestic students. CDU is a government-funded university, ensuring academic credibility and support services for international students.
This programme integrates the foundational knowledge of health sciences with advanced clinical skills in speech and language therapy. Students explore areas such as human communication development, anatomy and physiology of speech, language disorders, swallowing difficulties, and therapeutic interventions. The curriculum is designed to meet the professional standards set by Speech Pathology Australia, ensuring graduates are work-ready. At the master's level, students engage in evidence-based practice, research methods, and advanced clinical reasoning. The dual nature of the qualification means that students gain a broad understanding of public health while specialising in speech pathology, preparing them for diverse roles in hospitals, schools, community health centres, and private practice.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a dual qualification, meaning students earn both a Bachelor of Health Science and a Master of Speech and Language Therapy upon completion, saving time compared to studying them separately. The programme is typically offered full-time on campus at Casuarina Campus. Part-time options may be available but could affect visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment. The intensive integrated structure allows for early exposure to clinical placements.
The indicative tuition fee for international students is A$142,348 for the entire 4-year programme. Additional non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,472, bringing the estimated total to A$143,820. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year. Living costs in Darwin are moderate, with indicative weekly rent around A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50. Fees are set by CDU and subject to change; always confirm current fees on the Charles Darwin University website before applying.
English language proficiency is a key requirement; an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band less than 6.5) is typically needed. Equivalent scores from other accepted tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) may also be considered. For this integrated master's level programme, applicants usually need a secondary education qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12, plus meeting subject prerequisites (e.g., English and science). Pathway options through foundation studies or diplomas may be available — check with CDU for details. International students should also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. Always consult the provider for precise entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 11 weeks, approximately 900 total hours (hours per week vary), representing work-integrated learning. This typically involves clinical placements in speech pathology settings such as hospitals, schools, or community health centres under supervision. These placements are integral to developing practical skills and meeting professional accreditation standards. The CRICOS register notes the work component as part of the course structure, ensuring students gain hands-on experience. International students on a Student visa can undertake placements as part of their course requirements without affecting work rights limits.
The programme is delivered at Casuarina Campus, located in the suburb of Casuarina, Darwin, Northern Territory. Darwin is a vibrant tropical city with a diverse community and a growing student population. Casuarina Campus is well-served by public transport, including buses from the city centre. Darwin is home to several CRICOS-registered providers offering over 150 courses to international students. Living costs in Darwin are comparable to other Australian capitals, but the unique lifestyle and proximity to natural attractions like Kakadu National Park make it an appealing choice. The campus itself offers modern facilities including libraries, labs, and student support services.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. As part of the visa application, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity, and adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Upon graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. Student visa holders must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and comply with attendance and academic progress requirements. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level, field, and city, ensuring the provider is listed on CRICOS. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution — submit your application to Charles Darwin University (CDU), meet entry requirements (including English language test scores and academic qualifications), and note application deadlines. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once you accept the offer and pay the required deposit, CDU will issue a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
The Northern Territory (NT) offers a unique study experience with a multicultural community and a focus on Indigenous health and remote practice. Darwin has over 10 CRICOS-registered providers, including CDU, and a relatively small but close-knit student population. The cost of living is moderate; indicative weekly expenses include rent ($250–$400), groceries ($80–$150), and transport ($30–$50). Public transport serves the Casuarina Campus well. The NT lifestyle is laid-back with plenty of outdoor activities. Consider whether the tropical climate and smaller city scale align with your preferences. Speech pathology graduates are in demand across Australia, and NT placements offer valuable experience in diverse communities.
Ready to start your journey? Explore this CRICOS-registered course and apply through CDU today.
Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Speech and Language Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.