Are you planning to become a primary school teacher in Australia? The Master of Teaching Primary (CRICOS course code 110625G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years, designed for international students seeking initial teacher qualification. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Delivered at CDU's Casuarina Campus in Casuarina and the Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, Northern Territory, the program combines academic study with a substantial work component. As a CRICOS-registered course, it qualifies international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and is protected under the ESOS Act. Below, we break down everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, and more. HeadStart Academy provides this as a free resource—no referral fees, no commissions—so you can confidently plan your study in Australia.
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Master of Teaching Primary (CRICOS course code 110625G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. As a level 9 qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), it is designed for graduates who wish to become primary school teachers (Foundation to Year 6). The course focuses on developing pedagogical knowledge, classroom practice, and understanding of child development. CDU is a government-owned university (CRICOS provider code 00300K) with a strong reputation in regional and remote education. The course is fully CRICOS-registered, meaning it meets the Australian Government's requirements for enrolling international students. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia (April 2026), this course is one of many options, but it stands out for its location in the Northern Territory and its integrated work component.
This program falls under the field of education (07 - Education, 0701 - Teacher Education, 070103 - Teacher Education: Primary). While the exact syllabus is set by Charles Darwin University, typical content includes curriculum design, assessment strategies, inclusive education, literacy and numeracy teaching, and professional ethics. Students explore how children learn in primary school settings and develop skills to plan and deliver engaging lessons. The course also covers classroom management and working with diverse student populations, including Indigenous learners. As a Masters-level qualification, it emphasises reflective practice and evidence-based teaching. For a detailed syllabus, refer to CDU’s official website.
The Master of Teaching Primary has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The course is typically delivered full-time on campus. For information about part-time options or accelerated pathways, check Charles Darwin University's website or contact their international student support team.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire 2-year program is A$65,524, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Additional non-tuition fees are approximately A$736, bringing the estimated total to A$66,260. These fees are set by Charles Darwin University and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with CDU. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. For up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website: www.cdu.edu.au.
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements, typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band below a certain score, as specified by CDU). Prior qualifications: applicants generally need a bachelor's degree in any discipline (sometimes with specific prerequisite studies). Some universities require a Graduate Australian Admissions Test (GAT) or equivalent. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for those who do not meet direct entry requirements. Refer to Charles Darwin University's website for precise entry criteria. HeadStart Academy cannot provide individual assessment; contact the institution directly.
Yes, this course includes a work-integrated learning component: 12 weeks at 30 hours per week, totaling approximately 360 hours. This typically involves supervised professional placements in primary school classrooms, where you will observe experienced teachers, plan and deliver lessons, and gradually take on full teaching responsibilities under mentorship. Such placements are crucial for meeting the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) standards for initial teacher education. Students must obtain a valid Working with Children Check before placement. The placement is arranged by the university in partnership with local schools.
The Master of Teaching Primary is delivered at two locations in the Northern Territory:
Both campuses are in the Darwin area. Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory, with a population of over 147,000. It has a diverse multicultural community and a strong focus on Indigenous culture. The city has 5 CRICOS-registered providers offering higher education courses (as of April 2026). Living costs in Darwin are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $400–$550, groceries about $120–$160, and public transport (bus) about $45 per week. The nearest major city is Adelaide, about 3,000 km away. Casuarina Campus is in the northern suburb of Casuarina, accessible by bus from Darwin city centre (about 20 minutes). The Danala Precinct is located in the Darwin CBD, close to government offices and amenities.
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 and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to genuinely stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity documentation (tuition, living costs, travel) is also required. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for the Master of Teaching Primary at Charles Darwin University (CDU):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy’s course search to filter by Masters Degree (Coursework) and education field. Confirm that CDU (CRICOS 00300K) offers this course.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Meet entry requirements including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS) and academic transcripts. Check CDU’s application deadlines for international students (typically July or November intake). Submit your application online via CDU’s international admissions portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once CDU offers you a place, you’ll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Darwin offers a unique study experience compared to larger Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne. With a tropical climate (wet and dry seasons) and a more relaxed pace, it appeals to students who enjoy outdoor lifestyles and Indigenous cultural immersion. The Northern Territory has a small population but a high demand for teachers, potentially leading to strong graduate employment prospects in the region. However, cost of living is higher and the range of social amenities is narrower. Consider your preference for climate, size, and career goals. Darwin has 5 CRICOS-registered providers, and the student community is tight-knit. Public transport to Casuarina Campus is limited after hours, so many students live near campus or drive.
Ready to apply? Start your research with HeadStart Academy’s course finder and take the next step toward your Master of Teaching Primary at CDU.
Master of Teaching Primary 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.