Bachelor of Arts Honours (CRICOS course code 116878D) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 1 year. This program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in a related field and wish to deepen their knowledge through advanced coursework and a research project. As a CRICOS-registered course at a public university, it meets the standards required for international student visas. Whether you aim to pursue further research or enhance your career prospects, this honours year offers a pathway to higher-level studies and professional development. Approved by the Australian Government, the course is delivered at CDU's campuses in the Northern Territory, providing a unique study environment in tropical Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. This course falls under the field of Society and Culture, preparing graduates for roles in community services, policy, research, and more.
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Bachelor of Arts Honours (CRICOS course code 116878D) is a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 1 year. CDU is a government-funded public university with CRICOS provider code 00300K, located in the Northern Territory. This course is ideal for students who have completed an undergraduate degree in arts, humanities, or social sciences and want to specialise further. The honours year typically includes advanced coursework and a research thesis, allowing you to develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills. As a CRICOS-registered course, it qualifies international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The tuition fee is indicative at A$29,806 per year, with additional non-tuition fees of A$368, giving an estimated total of A$30,174. Always confirm current fees with CDU as they are subject to change. The Northern Territory is home to a small but vibrant student community, with Darwin offering a unique lifestyle and proximity to Asia. With only a handful of registered providers in the NT, CDU stands out as the primary university for international students in the region.
This honours program in Society and Culture (Field of Education 099999) allows you to build on your undergraduate knowledge in areas such as sociology, anthropology, history, or cultural studies. The curriculum typically includes advanced seminars, research methodologies, and a supervised thesis project. You will learn to design and conduct independent research, analyse complex social issues, and communicate findings effectively. Graduates of this level are prepared for roles in policy development, community engagement, cultural heritage, and further academic research. The honours year also strengthens your ability to think critically and work across disciplines, skills valued in both public and private sectors. While the specific subjects are set by CDU, the broad focus on society and culture means you can tailor your research to your interests. This course does not include a work component, so the emphasis is on academic and research training.
The Bachelor of Arts Honours is offered as a 1-year full-time program, equivalent to 52 weeks according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies options. This structure is typical for Australian honours degrees, which provide an intensive year of study after a bachelor's degree. Some providers may offer part-time options, but for international students, full-time enrolment is generally required to maintain visa conditions. The course is delivered on campus at CDU's locations in the Northern Territory. There is no online or distance mode listed on CRICOS, so face-to-face attendance is expected. Studying in Darwin offers a multicultural experience, with a tropical climate and a relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities. Indicative weekly rent in Darwin is around A$200-350, with groceries and transport adding A$150-200 per week.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$29,806 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$368, bringing the estimated total to A$30,174. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500-700 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Darwin are estimated at A$21,041 per year, as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. Always check CDU's website for the most current fees and any scholarships that may be available. Charles Darwin University offers a range of scholarships for international students, which can help reduce the financial burden. Remember, the fees shown are indicative only and should not be considered a guarantee.
To gain admission to this honours program, you generally need to have completed an Australian bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a related field with a strong academic record, typically a grade point average of 5.0 or higher on a 7-point scale. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 overall (no band below 5.5-6.0) or equivalent. Other accepted tests include TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. If your previous qualifications are from a non-English speaking background, you will need to provide evidence of English proficiency. Some students may be eligible for pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements; however, this course does not include a foundation studies component. Contact CDU for specific entry criteria and to discuss your eligibility. Always check the official entry requirements on the provider's website, as they may change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Bachelor of Arts Honours is primarily a research-focused program, and while some honours degrees may include internships or practical projects, this particular course at CDU has no such requirement. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help you gain work experience and offset living costs. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as a student, including access to support services and a refund policy if the course is not delivered. While this course has no work component, many students undertake part-time work in hospitality, retail, or tutoring in Darwin.
This course is delivered at two locations in the Northern Territory: Casuarina Campus in CASUARINA, NT, and the Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, NT. Both campuses are part of Charles Darwin University. Casuarina is a suburb of Darwin, about 15 minutes from the city centre, and is the main campus with modern facilities including libraries, labs, and student services. The Danala precinct is a new city-campus in Darwin's CBD, offering a vibrant urban study environment. Darwin has a small but growing international student population, with around 500 active CRICOS-registered courses delivered in the NT. Public transport is available via Darwin Bus, and many students cycle or walk. The cost of living in Darwin is moderate, with studio apartments starting around A$250 per week. The city's tropical climate means hot, humid summers and mild winters.
International students who enrol in this course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To be eligible, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CDU, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and make satisfactory course progress. OSHC is compulsory and must be arranged before visa grant. The current visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa-specific queries, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Applying for this course involves three straightforward steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare CDU with other universities offering Bachelor Honours Degrees in Society and Culture. Ensure the course and provider are CRICOS-registered, as this is required for student visa eligibility.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Charles Darwin University's website (www.cdu.edu.au) and submit an online application. Ensure you meet the entry requirements, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency. Prepare your transcripts, CV, and a statement of purpose. Deadlines vary by semester; apply well in advance.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once CDU accepts your application and you pay the deposit, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC and prepare for your move to Darwin. HeadStart Academy's free resources can guide you through each step.
Choosing where to study is a big decision. Darwin offers a unique blend of tropical lifestyle, multicultural communities, and proximity to Asia. The city has a population of about 140,000, with a relaxed atmosphere and a strong Indigenous cultural presence. Student accommodations range from on-campus options to private rentals. While the cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, the remote location means fewer part-time job opportunities in specialised fields. However, the Northern Territory Government has initiatives to support international students. If you're looking for a quiet, nature-focused environment and don't mind a smaller city, Darwin could be ideal. For those who prefer urban hustle, other cities might be a better fit. Consider your preferences and research the local student community.
Here are answers to common questions about this course:
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above to start your application to Charles Darwin University.
Bachelor of Arts 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.