Thinking about studying a Master of Arts in Australia? Master of Arts (CRICOS course code 0101689) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years (104 weeks). This program falls under the field of Society and Culture (090000) and is taught in English. Charles Darwin University is a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 00300K, offering education that meets Australian quality standards. The course is available at two campuses in the Northern Territory: Casuarina Campus and Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) after receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, finding the right course and provider is crucial for your study journey. This Master of Arts equips graduates with advanced skills for careers in policy, research, education, community development, and cultural management.
Master of Arts (CRICOS course code 0101689) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets the rigorous standards required to enrol international students. As a Masters level qualification (AQF Level 9), it builds on prior undergraduate study and develops advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of Society and Culture. The course is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of social, cultural, and human dynamics, and apply this knowledge in professional or academic settings. Charles Darwin University (CRICOS 00300K) is a government-funded university known for its research and teaching excellence in the Northern Territory. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring their rights are safeguarded throughout their studies.
The Master of Arts falls under the field of education 'Society and Culture, n.f.d.' (090000), which encompasses a broad range of disciplines including anthropology, sociology, cultural studies, history, and philosophy. At Masters level (coursework), students typically engage in advanced coursework that builds on their undergraduate foundation. Learning outcomes include the ability to critically analyse complex social and cultural issues, apply research methods to real-world problems, and communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences. Graduates emerge with enhanced skills in critical thinking, research design, and evidence-based decision-making, preparing them for leadership roles in government, non-profit organisations, education, community development, and cultural institutions. While specific curriculum details are set by CDU and may vary, the general focus is on applying theoretical knowledge to contemporary societal challenges.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Arts has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree). This course does not include a foundation studies component or a mandatory work placement. Students should expect a full-time commitment of around 20-25 hours per week including classes, self-study, and assignments. The standard academic year in Australia runs from February to November, with two main semesters. CDU may offer flexible intake dates; check the provider's website for specific start dates. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$75,346, with additional non-tuition fees of A$736, giving an estimated total of A$76,082. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Please note that this amount does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa, costing approximately A$600-800 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by location; in Darwin, indicative weekly expenses are around A$300-500 for rent, A$100-150 for groceries, and A$50 for public transport. Always confirm current fees with Charles Darwin University directly before applying, as fees are set by the provider and may be adjusted annually.
Entry to the Master of Arts typically requires an IELTS overall band score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent English language test), and a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or recognised equivalent in a related field. Some applicants may need to demonstrate relevant professional experience. CDU may also offer pathway options through foundation programs or postgraduate certificates for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. International students should check the specific English proficiency requirements and academic prerequisites on the CDU website, as these can change. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider's admissions team for personalised advice. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While some Master of Arts programs may offer elective internships or research projects, the CRICOS register for course 0101689 indicates no work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during scheduled study periods and unlimited hours during recognised breaks, subject to visa conditions and the maintenance of satisfactory course progress.
The Master of Arts is delivered at two campuses in the Northern Territory: Casuarina Campus (CASUARINA, NT) and Danala Education and Community Precinct (Darwin City, NT). Casuarina is a suburb of Darwin, approximately 12 km from the city centre, while the Danala precinct is in the heart of Darwin's central business district. Darwin is a vibrant, multicultural city with a population of over 140,000, including a significant international student community. The city has around 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering diverse courses. Public transport in Darwin includes buses and a free shuttle service in the CBD. Living costs in the Northern Territory are relatively lower than in Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350-500. The tropical climate offers year-round warmth, and the region is known for its natural attractions including Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to keep your visa. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, proof of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents, and no adverse immigration history. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, giving you legal rights including access to tuition refund protections.
Choosing to study in the Northern Territory (NT) is a unique experience compared to more populous states like New South Wales or Victoria. Darwin, the capital, offers a close-knit international student community, with over 2,000 international students from various countries. The NT has a relatively low cost of living—weekly rent for shared accommodation can be as low as A$200-300. Public transport is limited to buses, but many students cycle or walk. The lifestyle is outdoorsy, with a tropical climate and easy access to national parks, waterfalls, and Aboriginal cultural sites. However, the job market for part-time work is smaller than in Sydney or Melbourne, and the summer wet season (November to April) brings high humidity and rain. If you prefer a more relaxed pace and an immersive natural environment, the NT could be an excellent choice. HeadStart Academy helps you compare providers and courses across all Australian states and territories.
Applying to the Master of Arts at Charles Darwin University (CDU) involves three straightforward steps:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify that CDU is registered (00300K) and the course (0101689) is current. Filter by course level, field, and location to confirm it matches your goals.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the CDU website (www.cdu.edu.au) to review the specific entry requirements, English language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and application deadlines. Submit your application through the provider's online portal. You may need to provide academic transcripts, evidence of English proficiency, a personal statement, and references.
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once CDU offers you a place, you will receive a CoE. Use this document to apply for your Student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa guidance, consult a MARA-registered migration agent.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above, or visit the Charles Darwin University website for detailed application information and deadlines.
Master of Arts 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.