Master of Speech Pathology (CRICOS course code 118268C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course prepares graduates for professional practice as speech pathologists, addressing communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. CDU is a government university (CRICOS 00300K) with a strong focus on health education, particularly in regional and remote contexts. The course includes a substantial work-integrated learning component of 24 weeks (approximately 640 hours), ensuring graduates meet Speech Pathology Australia accreditation standards. Indicative tuition fees are A$69,484, with non-tuition fees of A$736, totalling an estimated A$70,220 (excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges). Delivery is at CDU's Casuarina Campus in Darwin, Northern Territory. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act and can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Master of Speech Pathology (CRICOS course code 118268C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. CDU is a government university with CRICOS provider code 00300K. This course is designed for international students seeking a professional qualification in speech pathology. The programme is classified under Field of Education 061707 - Speech Pathology (Health discipline). Graduates will be eligible to apply for membership with Speech Pathology Australia after meeting accreditation requirements. The course is delivered full-time and includes a mandatory work component, providing hands-on experience in clinical settings. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and financial safeguards. CDU is committed to providing a supportive learning environment, particularly for students from diverse cultural backgrounds. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia is a leading destination for health studies. HeadStart Academy is a free resource, independently providing course data from the official CRICOS register.
The Master of Speech Pathology is a graduate-level professional qualification that equips students with the knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders. The curriculum covers areas such as anatomy and physiology of speech mechanisms, linguistics, audiology, and clinical intervention across the lifespan. Students engage in theoretical coursework and supervised clinical placements, developing competencies in evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and cultural competence. As a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, the programme requires a previous bachelor's degree and provides advanced training in rehabilitation therapies. Graduates are prepared to work in hospitals, schools, community health centres, and private practices. The course is specifically delivered at CDU's Casuarina Campus in Darwin, where students benefit from the unique health challenges of Northern Territory communities, including Indigenous health contexts. This field of education is growing, with increasing demand for speech pathologists across Australia. For detailed subject descriptions, consult Charles Darwin University directly.
The Master of Speech Pathology has a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. It is conducted in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The programme is delivered on campus at Casuarina Campus in Darwin, requiring physical attendance for classes and clinical placements. Students should expect a full-time commitment, including lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and off-site placements. The language of instruction is English, and applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall). As a single qualification, this course leads directly to the Master of Speech Pathology award. International students should plan for continuous study throughout the 2-year period to maintain visa compliance. The duration is set by the provider and approved by CRICOS; it reflects the minimum time required to complete the course. Students may extend if needed, but this may affect visa conditions. Always check the latest course structure with Charles Darwin University.
Tuition fees for Master of Speech Pathology at Charles Darwin University are indicative at A$69,484 for the full programme. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, materials) are estimated at A$736, bringing the estimated total to A$70,220. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500) are not included. OSHC for a single student is approximately A$500–700 per year, and living costs in Darwin are around A$1,500–2,000 per month (including rent, groceries, and transport). We strongly recommend checking current fees on Charles Darwin University's official website (www.cdu.edu.au). As a CRICOS-registered provider, CDU must adhere to ESOS Act requirements, ensuring transparent fee disclosure and refund policies. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource and does not charge referral fees. Always confirm fees directly before applying.
Entry to the Master of Speech Pathology typically requires a recognised bachelor's degree with relevant prerequisite studies (e.g., health sciences, linguistics, or psychology). English language proficiency is required, with most applicants needing IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.5–7.0) or equivalent. Charles Darwin University may set specific GPA thresholds and interview or portfolio requirements. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not offered for this level; however, applicants with non-cognate backgrounds may need to complete bridging subjects. International qualifications must be assessed for equivalency. This is general guidance only; for exact requirements, refer to CDU's admissions page. All CRICOS-registered courses must maintain transparent entry criteria. Remember, meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa-related queries.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 24 weeks, totalling approximately 640 hours. This clinical placement or internship is a core part of the curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under supervision. Work-integrated learning is essential for accreditation by Speech Pathology Australia. Placements may be arranged in hospitals, community health centres, schools, or private practices in Darwin or regional NT. Students are responsible for their own travel and accommodation during placements. The work component is unpaid but counts towards the degree. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can undertake this placement as part of their course without affecting work hour limits. The ESOS Act ensures that work-integrated learning meets quality standards. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building professional networks and improving job readiness in Australia's growing speech pathology sector.
The Master of Speech Pathology is delivered at Charles Darwin University's Casuarina Campus in CASUARINA, Northern Territory. Casuarina is a suburb of Darwin, the capital city of NT. Darwin is a multicultural city with a tropical climate and a strong sense of community. It has a student population of around 15,000, with several CRICOS-registered providers including CDU. The campus is accessible by public transport (bus) from Darwin city and surrounding suburbs. Indicative living costs in Darwin are higher than the national average: weekly rent for a shared apartment is $200–350, groceries $80–120, and transport $30–50. The NT offers a unique study experience, with close proximity to national parks and Indigenous cultural sites. CDU is the only university in NT, and this course is offered only at Casuarina Campus. Students should consider lifestyle, climate, and cost of living when choosing this location. For more details, see our Northern Territory study guide (/states/nt).
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity, OSHC, and English proficiency. While studying, visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). After course completion, graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), depending on their skills. Darwin is designated as a regional area, potentially offering additional points for migration. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition protection and quality assurance. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for your specific situation. For a detailed guide, see our Student Visa Subclass 500 page (/visa/student-visa-subclass-500).
Applying for the Master of Speech Pathology at Charles Darwin University follows a three-step process. First, research CRICOS-registered providers: use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field of education (Speech Pathology), and location (Northern Territory). Confirm that Charles Darwin University and course 118268C meet your preferences. Second, apply directly to Charles Darwin University: check their entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare transcripts, references, and a personal statement if required. Submit your application via the CDU online portal or through an authorised education agent. Third, upon receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need the CoE, OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. HeadStart Academy provides this guide as a free resource but does not process applications. For current fees and application procedures, visit Charles Darwin University's website (www.cdu.edu.au). Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your education is protected under Australian law.
Choosing to study in the Northern Territory offers a unique experience compared to other Australian states. Darwin is a small, multicultural city with a relaxed lifestyle and a strong Indigenous heritage. The climate is tropical, with a wet season (November-April) and dry season (May-October). Living costs are moderate but can be higher for utilities due to the climate. NT has fewer student providers (only one university and a few vocational colleges), so options are limited. However, the community is close-knit, and students often enjoy smaller class sizes and personalised attention. The region is classified as regional for migration purposes, which may benefit graduates seeking permanent residency. Speech pathology students will find opportunities to work with remote and Indigenous communities, gaining valuable experience. If you value adventure, cultural immersion, and a slower pace, NT could be ideal. For more on studying in the Territory, see our page on Masters degrees in NT (/study/masters-degree-coursework/nt) and the state overview (/states/nt).
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Master of Speech Pathology 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.