Associate Degree of Information and Communication Technology (CRICOS course code 089400D) is an Advanced Diploma (AQF Level 6) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking foundational and applied skills in information technology, covering areas such as networking, programming, databases, and systems administration. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00300K), it meets Australian standards for international education. CDU is a government-owned university with campuses in Darwin and Casuarina, offering a unique study environment in Australia's Northern Territory. Whether you aim to start your IT career or progress to further study, this Associate Degree provides a solid pathway. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. For current fees and entry requirements, always confirm directly with CDU.
This course falls under the broad field of Information Technology (Field of Education 029999 - Information Technology, n.e.c.). Students typically develop competencies in software development, network configuration, database management, and IT project support. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical labs, preparing graduates for roles such as IT support officer, network administrator, or junior programmer. At AQF Level 6, the course emphasizes applied skills and analytical thinking. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, graduates often gain credits towards a bachelor's degree. CDU's focus on tropical and remote technology applications adds a distinctive context, particularly relevant in Northern Australia.
The Associate Degree is delivered full-time over 2 years (105 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification with no dual awards or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at either CDU's Casuarina Campus in suburban Darwin or the new Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City. Both locations offer modern facilities, library access, and student support services. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment under your student visa conditions.
Tuition fees are indicative: A$69,714 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services) are approximately A$736, bringing the estimated total to A$70,450. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC for a single student is typically A$500–$700 per year. Living costs in Darwin are higher than the national average: expect weekly rent of A$300–$450 for shared accommodation, groceries around A$100–$150, and public transport costs of about A$30 per week. Always confirm current fees on CDU's official website: www.cdu.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and subject to annual increases.
English language proficiency: IELTS overall 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Academic entry typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. For international students, prior qualifications should be at a level that would allow entry into a similar program in your home country. CDU may consider work experience or foundation programs. Some students may need to complete a preparatory course. Always refer to CDU's specific entry guidelines for this course. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; final decision rests with the provider.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are available from the moment your course starts. You can seek part-time employment in Darwin's hospitality, retail, or administrative sectors to supplement your income and gain Australian work experience.
This course is delivered at two CDU campuses in the Northern Territory: Casuarina Campus (address: Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, NT 0810) and Danala Education and Community Precinct (address: 21 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City, NT 0800). Both are located in Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory. Darwin has a population of about 150,000, including a significant international student community. The city offers a tropical lifestyle, with nearby national parks and a multicultural atmosphere. Public transport includes buses; Casuarina is a 15-minute drive from the city centre. Darwin has 3 CRICOS-registered providers, with CDU being the only public university. Living costs are moderate, but the relaxed lifestyle and smaller class sizes appeal to many students.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs (A$29,710 per year for a single student as per Home Affairs). OSHC must be held for the entire duration of stay. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions vary — always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
The Northern Territory offers a unique study experience distinct from Australia's east coast capitals. Darwin's smaller size means easier access to professors, a close-knit student community, and real-world exposure to remote and Indigenous contexts — valuable for IT professionals interested in telecoms, disaster recovery, or government systems. The cost of living is higher than Adelaide or Perth but lower than Sydney or Melbourne. Climate is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural diversity, and a quieter environment, NT could be an excellent fit. However, consider fewer part-time job opportunities compared to larger cities. As of April 2026, there are 3 CRICOS-registered providers in the NT offering 164 courses.
Ready to apply? Follow the 3-step process below to start your journey towards an Associate Degree of ICT at Charles Darwin University.
Associate Degree of Information and Communication Technology 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.