Bachelor of Development Studies (Honours) (CRICOS course code 081558B) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Sociology (090301). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00120C), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Located in Canberra City West, ACT, this course offers advanced study in development theory, research methods, and policy analysis. Australian National University is a leading research-intensive institution, ranked among the top universities globally. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, this program is designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of global development challenges. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.
Bachelor of Development Studies (Honours) (CRICOS course code 081558B) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year (52 weeks). This AQF Level 8 program is classified under Field of Education 090301 - Sociology, within the broader Society and Culture category. The course is taught in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards). It does not include a mandatory work component. The provider, Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C), is a government-funded public university located in Canberra, Australia's capital. International students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets visa requirements for the Student visa (Subclass 500).
This honours program builds on undergraduate knowledge in development studies, focusing on advanced sociological theories, research design, and critical analysis. Students typically engage in coursework covering development paradigms, global inequalities, and policy evaluation, culminating in a research thesis. The program equips graduates with skills for careers in international organisations, government agencies, NGOs, or further academic research. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with the provider, the general focus aligns with AQF Level 8 outcomes: advanced knowledge, critical thinking, and independent research capabilities.
The course is listed on the CRICOS register with a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification only, meaning no dual awards or combined degrees. There is no foundation studies component; however, pathway options may be available at the provider. Students should check with Australian National University for any preparatory programs if needed.
Tuition fees for Bachelor of Development Studies (Honours) are indicative at A$56,120. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services and amenities) are estimated at A$373, bringing the estimated total to A$56,493. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$450–600 per week for rent in Canberra), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees directly with Australian National University before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English test result). Prior qualifications expected: a bachelor's degree in a related field, usually with a minimum grade average. Specific prerequisites should be verified with the provider. Some pathway options (e.g., foundation or diploma programs) may be available at Australian National University for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check the institution's website for the most current entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. It does not include an internship, placement, or work experience requirement.
The course is delivered at Australian National University's main campus in Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, with a population of over 450,000 and a large student community. The city offers excellent public transport, including buses and light rail, connecting the campus to residential areas. Living costs in Canberra are moderate, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$400–600, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$30–50. The city hosts multiple CRICOS-registered providers, providing a diverse study environment.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian National University, evidence of financial capacity, OSHC cover, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The ESOS Act protects students' rights, including access to refunds and grievance processes. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Bachelor of Development Studies (Honours) at Australian National University:
Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by study level, field, and location. Confirm that the provider (CRICOS 00120C) is registered to deliver this course (CRICOS 081558B). All listed providers are government-monitored.
Submit your application to Australian National University via their admissions portal (http://www.anu.edu.au/). Meet entry requirements: English test scores, prior qualifications, and deadlines. Provide all required documents.
Once accepted, the university issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial statements, and GTE statement.
Canberra offers a safe, clean environment with a strong focus on education and research. The city has a high proportion of students, with many cultural and recreational activities. However, it has a higher cost of living compared to some regional areas. Consider your budget, climate preferences (cool winters, warm summers), and lifestyle when choosing. HeadStart Academy provides resources to compare cities and courses.
Start your application today: research this course on HeadStart Academy and contact Australian National University for current fees and intake dates.
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Bachelor of Development Studies (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. 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.