Master of Business Administration Charles Darwin University

Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) - Charles Darwin University

Master of Business Administration (CRICOS course code 118254J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership and management skills in a global context. As a CRICOS-registered course (00300K), CDU offers this MBA at two locations: Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, and a Sydney campus at Level 10, 815 George Street. The course falls under the field of Business Management (080301), providing a comprehensive understanding of organisational strategy, finance, and operations. With indicative tuition fees of A$57,288 and an estimated total of A$57,840 (excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa charges), this MBA is a competitive option for international students. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and CDU is a government-owned university known for its research and regional focus. Prospective students should note that all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course Overview

Master of Business Administration (CRICOS course code 118254J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is registered under CRICOS provider code 00300K, confirming CDU's compliance with Australian Government standards for international education. The program is designed to equip students with advanced business acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership capabilities. As a Level 9 qualification (AQF), it prepares graduates for senior management roles across industries. The course is offered in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). CDU, a government-owned university, is known for its strong industry connections and research output. Students benefit from the ESOS Act protections that apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring their rights as international students are safeguarded. The indicative tuition fee of A$57,288 reflects the program's duration and depth, with non-tuition fees of A$552 covering materials and services. Always verify current fees on CDU's website, as they are subject to change.

What You'll Study

This MBA covers the field of Business Management (080301), focusing on organisational leadership, strategic decision-making, and operational excellence. Students explore core areas such as financial management, marketing, human resources, and business analytics. The coursework typically includes case studies, group projects, and real-world simulations, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Graduates emerge with a holistic understanding of how to manage complex business environments, drive innovation, and lead diverse teams. While the exact curriculum is determined by CDU, the program aligns with AQF Level 9 outcomes, emphasising research-informed practice and ethical leadership. International students often choose this MBA to gain a globally recognised qualification and access to Australian industry networks. The course is designed for professionals with prior work experience, enhancing their ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios.

Duration and Study Mode

The course is offered over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English, with no work component included. This is a single qualification, meaning students graduate with a Master of Business Administration without concurrent study in another field. The duration reflects a full-time study load typically required for international students to maintain their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. CDU may offer part-time options, but international students must adhere to visa regulations regarding study load. The language of instruction is English, requiring proficiency as outlined in the entry requirements. The 78-week duration is standard for an accelerated MBA, allowing students to complete their studies efficiently while still engaging deeply with the curriculum.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) is A$57,288, as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$552, bringing the estimated total to A$57,840. Please note that these fees are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with Charles Darwin University (CDU) at www.cdu.edu.au before applying. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For reference, the Australian Government recommends international students budget approximately A$21,041 per year for living costs (as of 2026), though actual expenses vary by city. For example, Darwin has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, where the same course is also offered. Always check CDU's website for the most current fee schedule.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Applicants typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency, with an overall IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent). This is a general guideline; exact requirements are set by Charles Darwin University (CDU) and may vary based on prior qualifications and work experience. For this Masters level course, a recognised bachelor's degree is usually required, and some programs prefer applicants with relevant work experience. CDU may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet the direct entry criteria. International students should review CDU's specific admission policies, as meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee entry. It is essential to consult CDU's website or contact their admissions office for precise details. Note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa eligibility, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students in Australia on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. These work rights allow students to gain valuable Australian work experience and supplement their living costs. While the MBA itself does not require an internship or placement, CDU may offer optional career development programs or networking opportunities. International students should be aware that work hours are capped during study periods, and it is important to balance employment with academic commitments. The absence of a mandatory work component means the course focuses entirely on academic learning.

Delivery Locations

Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) is delivered at two locations in Australia: Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, Northern Territory, and Level 10, 815 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales. The Darwin campus is part of CDU's main precinct, offering a vibrant study environment in the tropical north. Darwin is home to several CRICOS-registered providers and has a relatively small international student population, providing a close-knit community and lower living costs compared to Sydney. The Sydney campus is located in the central business district, surrounded by Australia's largest financial and commercial hub. Sydney hosts over 100,000 international students and offers extensive public transport, cultural diversity, and high living costs (weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$600–A$800). Both locations provide access to CDU's academic resources and student support services. Students should consider their preferred lifestyle and career opportunities when choosing a campus.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students enrolling in Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. This visa requires applicants to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintain satisfactory course progress. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is mandatory to hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. Australia's ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa application assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website (homeaffairs.gov.au).

How to Apply

Applying for Master of Business Administration at Charles Darwin University (CDU) involves three steps: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered – CDU is registered with code 00300K. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Check CDU's entry requirements, including English language test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), academic transcripts, and application deadlines. Submit your application through CDU's online portal. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once CDU issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare evidence of financial capacity. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to guide you through each step, but we do not replace professional advice.

Is Darwin or Sydney Right for You?

Choosing between CDU's Darwin and Sydney campuses depends on your lifestyle preferences and career goals. Darwin offers a unique tropical environment, lower living costs (weekly rent around A$400–A$600 for a one-bedroom apartment), and a growing economy focused on mining, tourism, and public service. The city has a small international student community (around 2,000 students), providing a more intimate study experience. Sydney, on the other hand, is Australia's largest city with a thriving business sector, extensive networking opportunities, and a multicultural population. Living costs are higher (weekly rent A$600–A$800), but the city offers world-class amenities, public transport, and a diverse range of industries. Both locations have CRICOS-registered providers and ESOS protections. Consider your budget, preferred climate, and career aspirations when deciding where to study. Remember that your Student visa allows study at any location listed on your CoE.

Ready to apply? Start your journey with HeadStart Academy: research CRICOS-registered providers, check entry requirements, and apply to Charles Darwin University (CDU) today.

Other courses at Charles Darwin University (CDU)

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Source-backed course facts

Master of Business Administration 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Master of Business Administration
CRICOS course code
118254J
Provider
Charles Darwin University (CDU) (00300K)
Course level
Masters Degree (Coursework)
Field of education
08 - Management and Commerce
Duration
78 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$57,288
Estimated total (indicative)
A$57,840
Delivery locations
Darwin City, Sydney
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee for Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) at CDU is A$57,288, with additional non-tuition fees of A$552, totalling an estimated A$57,840. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. International students should also budget for OSHC (approx. A$1,200–A$1,500 for 1.5 years), living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), and the visa application charge (A$1,600 as of 2026). Always check CDU's website for the most current fee schedule.
The Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) at Charles Darwin University has a duration of 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. The duration may vary if a student chooses a part-time study load, but international students on a Student visa must maintain a full-time enrolment. The 78 weeks are structured to provide an accelerated yet comprehensive business education, allowing graduates to enter the workforce sooner.
Entry requirements for this MBA typically include an overall IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent), a recognised bachelor's degree, and often relevant work experience. Charles Darwin University sets specific criteria, which may include a minimum GPA or prerequisite subjects. For applicants who do not meet direct entry, CDU may offer pathway programs. It is important to check CDU's official website for detailed requirements, as they can change. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting CDU's admissions team for personalised guidance.
Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 118254J) is delivered at two locations: Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, Northern Territory, and Level 10, 815 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales. Both campuses are CRICOS-registered under CDU's provider code 00300K. Darwin offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle, while Sydney provides a bustling urban environment. Students can choose their preferred location at the time of application.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$57,840 for Master of Business Administration (tuition A$57,288). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Charles Darwin University (CDU) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 118254J, offered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) (provider code 00300K). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.