Master of Physiotherapy (CRICOS course code 111118G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This program is designed for graduates seeking to become registered physiotherapists in Australia, combining theoretical knowledge with clinical practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00300K), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The course focuses on rehabilitation therapies within the health field, preparing students for diverse healthcare settings. CDU, a government-owned university in the Northern Territory, offers a unique regional study experience with access to tropical health contexts. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you make an informed decision. Always confirm details directly with CDU before applying.
Master of Physiotherapy (CRICOS course code 111118G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This program is classified under the field of education 061701 - Physiotherapy (Rehabilitation Therapies). It is an AQF Level 9 qualification designed for students who already hold a relevant bachelor's degree. The course prepares graduates for professional practice as physiotherapists, with a curriculum that integrates theoretical foundations, evidence-based practice, and clinical skills. CDU is a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 00300K, offering this course at its Casuarina Campus in Darwin. As a CRICOS-registered program, it is approved for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. The course does not offer dual qualifications or foundation studies. All instruction is in English, and the program includes a mandatory work component.
The Master of Physiotherapy covers the principles of physiotherapy practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of movement disorders and injuries. Students learn about musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, as well as health promotion and rehabilitation. The curriculum typically includes subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise prescription, and clinical reasoning. Graduates develop skills to work in hospitals, private practices, sports clinics, and community health settings. The course emphasises evidence-based practice and cultural competence, particularly relevant in the Northern Territory's diverse and remote healthcare environment. Please note that this is a general description of the field; for a detailed syllabus, refer to CDU's official website.
The Master of Physiotherapy is a full-time course with a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification program (no dual awards). It is classified as Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9. The course does not include foundation studies. Study is conducted at CDU's Casuarina Campus, with a mix of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and clinical placements. The workload is intensive, requiring significant commitment to both theoretical and practical components.
Indicative tuition fee for the Master of Physiotherapy is A$59,040. Non-tuition fees (such as administration, materials, etc.) are estimated at A$736, bringing the approximate total to A$59,776. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Charles Darwin University. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500–A$700 per year. Living expenses in Darwin — including rent, groceries, and transport — average around A$20,000–A$25,000 per year. Always confirm current fees with CDU, as they are subject to change.
Entry into the Master of Physiotherapy typically requires a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant health science field (e.g., exercise science, human movement) with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is required, with an indicative IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5). Some applicants may need to complete prerequisite subjects. CDU may also consider relevant work experience. There are no foundation or pathway programs listed for this course. However, applicants who do not meet direct entry may consider alternative options — please consult CDU's admissions team. This information is a general guide; exact requirements vary by semester. Check the provider's website for details.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, totalling approximately 750 hours (estimated hours per week not specified in CRICOS data). This work-integrated learning involves clinical placements in physiotherapy settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private practices. These placements provide hands-on experience under supervision, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The placement hours contribute to eligibility for professional registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) after graduation. International students must ensure their visa conditions permit such work; generally, student visas allow placement hours as part of the course.
The Master of Physiotherapy is delivered at the Casuarina Campus — CASUARINA, NT. Casuarina is a suburb of Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a small but multicultural city with a population of around 150,000. It has a tropical climate and a growing healthcare sector. The campus is accessible by public transport, with buses connecting to the city centre (about 15 km away). Darwin has several hospitals and clinics that may host placements. Living costs in Darwin are moderate, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–A$500. The city has a vibrant international student community, with CDU being a major provider.
International students enrolled in this course typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a full-time CRICOS-registered course. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to conditions). You must also comply with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. Note: This information is a summary; visa conditions change. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Physiotherapy at Charles Darwin University (CDU):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare CDU with other physiotherapy courses. Filter by course level, field, and location. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Check CDU's entry requirements (including English test scores and academic transcripts), gather documents, and submit an online application before the deadline. CDU may have specific intake periods. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — If accepted, CDU issues a CoE. Then lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs, attaching your CoE, OSHC evidence, and financial documents. Processing times vary; apply early.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy's free directory, then apply directly to CDU.
Master of Physiotherapy 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.