Master of Occupational Therapy (CRICOS course code 118256G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This program prepares graduates to become occupational therapists registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. It combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical placements, ensuring students are job-ready. CDU is a government-owned university with strong ties to Northern Territory communities, offering a unique study experience in Australia's tropical north.
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Master of Occupational Therapy (CRICOS course code 118256G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. The course is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field and wish to qualify as occupational therapists. It is a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00300K) approved for international students under the ESOS Act. With a strong focus on evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. The program includes 25 weeks of supervised clinical placements, providing real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings.
Occupational therapy is a health profession focused on enabling people to participate in meaningful daily activities. In this course, you will learn about human development, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and how illness or disability affects occupational performance. Core topics include assessment and intervention strategies, mental health occupational therapy, community-based rehabilitation, and professional ethics. You will also study research methods and complete a capstone project. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Occupational Therapy Competency Standards (AOTCS) 2018 and covers areas such as rehabilitation therapies (field 061703). Graduates gain skills to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools, aged care, and private practice.
The Master of Occupational Therapy is a full-time course with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual degree or combined with foundation studies). CDU delivers this program on campus at Casuarina Campus. There is no VET component; it is a higher education (AQF Level 9) course. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$69,484 (sourced from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., student amenities and services) are approximately A$736. The estimated total is A$70,220. These fees are set by Charles Darwin University and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$2,000–A$2,500 per month in Darwin), and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees on CDU's official website before applying. We recommend budgeting for textbooks, equipment, and professional registration fees.
Admission to the Master of Occupational Therapy requires a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) with a minimum GPA (typically 5.0 out of 7.0 or equivalent). Prior study in health sciences, psychology, human biology, or a related field is expected. English language proficiency: IELTS (Academic) minimum overall 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.5–7.0 depending on the skill). Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge CAE. CDU may offer pathway or foundation programs for applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements — check with the university. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
Yes — this course includes a mandatory work component of 25 weeks (approximately 1,000 hours) of supervised clinical placements at 40 hours per week. These placements form part of the course and are arranged by the university. You will gain hands-on experience in hospitals, community health centres, rehabilitation clinics, schools, or aged care facilities. Placements are typically in the Northern Territory but may also be offered interstate. They are designed to develop professional competencies and meet accreditation requirements. You must have a current police check, Working with Children Clearance, and up-to-date immunisations before commencing placements.
This course is delivered at Casuarina Campus (CASUARINA, NT). Casuarina is a suburb of Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory. Darwin is known for its tropical climate, rich indigenous culture, and close proximity to national parks. The Casuarina campus is well-served by public buses and is a 15–20 minute drive from Darwin's city centre. Living costs in Darwin are moderately higher than in other Australian cities: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–A$500, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. The NT has a small but growing student population with around 5,500 international students. CDU is the only public university in the territory, and there are a handful of other CRICOS-registered providers in Darwin.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To qualify, you must: (1) have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CDU, (2) meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement, (3) have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year), and OSHC, (4) meet English language requirements, and (5) hold adequate health insurance (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act and National Code of Practice. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Studying occupational therapy in Darwin offers a unique opportunity to work with diverse populations, including Indigenous communities. The Northern Territory has a high demand for allied health professionals, and clinical placements often provide exposure to remote healthcare delivery. Casuarina Campus has modern facilities including simulation labs and a health sciences precinct. However, the smaller student community means fewer networking events compared to bigger cities. Consider your adaptability to a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Darwin's cost of living is moderate, but availability of student accommodation can be competitive. If you value a close-knit learning environment and hands-on clinical experience in regional Australia, CDU's Master of Occupational Therapy could be a strong fit.
Ready to start your journey? Check CDU's entry requirements and apply directly for Master of Occupational Therapy (118256G).
Master of Occupational Therapy 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.