Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours (CRICOS course code 110435B) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 4 years. This AQF Level 8 program falls under the field of Medical Science (019901), part of Natural and Physical Sciences. Designed for students passionate about laboratory-based medical diagnosis, it combines theory with a substantial work component. CDU is a government-owned university with CRICOS registration 00300K, ensuring compliance with Australian quality standards. With indicative tuition fees of A$145,940 and a mandatory work placement of 20 weeks (600 hours), this course prepares graduates for roles in pathology, research, and healthcare. Delivered at CDU's Casuarina Campus in Darwin, NT, the program is fully accredited and open to international students. Below, we break down everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, visa conditions, and how to apply.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours (CRICOS 110435B) is a 4-year (208-week) Bachelor Honours Degree at Charles Darwin University (CDU). The course is classified under Field of Education 019901 Medical Science, within the Natural and Physical Sciences discipline. As an honours degree, it includes a research component and advanced coursework, setting it apart from a standard bachelor's. The program is single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. English is the sole language of instruction. The course is listed on the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, confirming CDU meets Australian Government standards for enrolling international students. All CRICOS-registered providers, like CDU, are required to comply with the ESOS Act, giving you legal protections as an overseas student.
Medical Laboratory Science combines biology, chemistry, and medicine to diagnose and monitor diseases. In this honours program, you'll learn to analyse bodily fluids, tissues, and cells using sophisticated laboratory equipment. The curriculum typically covers haematology, clinical biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, and transfusion science. At honours level, you'll also undertake a supervised research project, developing skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and report writing. Graduates are prepared for roles in hospital pathology labs, private diagnostic centres, research institutes, and public health agencies. Note that this description is a general guide; the specific syllabus is set by CDU. For exact unit details, refer to the university's course handbook.
The course duration as recorded on the CRICOS register is 4 years (208 weeks). This is a full-time, on-campus program delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree. There are no foundation studies attached to this course. Study is expected to be continuous, with standard semester breaks. CDU's Casuarina Campus provides modern laboratory facilities. If you need to extend your stay due to academic progress issues, you may need to apply for a new CoE. Always check your student visa conditions regarding course duration.
Tuition fees for Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The estimated total course tuition is A$145,940. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, administrative charges) are approximately A$1,472, bringing the combined indicative total to A$147,412. These fees are set by CDU and subject to annual review. You should confirm current fees directly with the university before applying. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Darwin should budget approximately A$450–A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and local transport. OSHC costs vary by provider and coverage level.
Entry requirements are set by CDU. For this Bachelor Honours Degree, you typically need successful completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent. An approved foundation program may also satisfy entry. Prerequisites often include mathematics and science subjects, especially chemistry and biology. English language proficiency is required: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (specific scores vary by provider). Some students may be eligible for pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry. Contact CDU for precise academic and English requirements. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility; always check with the institution.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks of placement at 30 hours per week, totalling approximately 600 hours. This work-integrated learning takes the form of a clinical placement or supervised industry internship in a medical laboratory setting. It provides real-world experience in diagnostic pathology, microbiology, or haematology labs, often in partnership with public or private healthcare providers in Darwin. The placement is assessed and must be completed to satisfy course requirements. Ensure you have a valid visa that permits work; the Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours is delivered at CDU's Casuarina Campus, located in Casuarina, a suburb of Darwin, Northern Territory. Darwin is a compact city with a tropical climate and a diverse population. The campus is accessible by public bus from the city centre (approx. 15 km). The Northern Territory has one of the smallest student populations in Australia, but CDU is the only university, making it a close-knit community. Living costs in Darwin are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne; expect weekly rent of A$200–A$350 for shared accommodation, plus around A$150 for food and transport. The campus features dedicated science laboratories, a library, and student support services. Only this location is listed on the CRICOS register for this course code.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CDU for CRICOS course 110435B. Key visa conditions include: maintaining OSHC for the duration of your stay, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Student visa holders must also comply with ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Darwin offers a unique study experience: a warm climate year-round, rich Indigenous culture, and proximity to Asia. The city has a population of around 150,000, with a small but growing international student community. Public transport is limited compared to larger cities, so many students cycle or use ride-sharing. The cost of living is lower than in major capitals, but employment opportunities are fewer. CDU's small class sizes mean more personal attention from lecturers. If you're comfortable with a quieter lifestyle and want to specialise in medical science in a supportive environment, Darwin could be ideal. Visit the city beforehand if possible, or explore online forums to hear from current students.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours at Charles Darwin University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Medical Science), and location (NT). Confirm CRICOS code 110435B is active.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit CDU's website (cdu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, application deadlines, and required documents. Submit your application online through the international admissions portal.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa: Once accepted, CDU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a Student Visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC and prepare financial evidence for the GTE requirement.
Ready to start your journey in medical laboratory science? Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and connect with CDU. Begin your application today.
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours 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.