There are 2 Masters Degree (Research) courses offered by 1 CRICOS-registered provider across Northern Territory. This AQF Level 9 qualification is designed for students who want to pursue advanced research in fields such as Education and Society and Culture. Charles Darwin University (CDU) is the sole provider, offering research degrees that align with Australia's national priorities. As an international student, studying a Masters by Research in NT gives you access to unique research opportunities in tropical health, indigenous studies, and environmental science. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision. Whether you aim for a PhD pathway or career advancement, this page covers fees, duration, entry requirements, and visa guidance.
A Masters Degree (Research) is an AQF Level 9 qualification that focuses on independent research under supervision. Unlike coursework masters, the majority of the program is dedicated to a thesis or research project. Entry typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or equivalent research experience. This degree qualifies graduates for professional research roles or further study at Doctoral level (AQF Level 10). In Northern Territory, the only provider offering this level is Charles Darwin University, which has strong research centres in tropical and indigenous knowledge. The program usually takes 2 years full-time and requires a research proposal prior to admission.
The table below breaks down the approximate tuition and duration by field of education.
The only provider in Northern Territory offering Masters Degree (Research) courses is Charles Darwin University (CRICOS 00300K). CDU is a public university based in Darwin with campuses in Alice Springs and Sydney. It has a strong reputation for research in tropical health, environmental science, and indigenous studies. CDU's research degrees are designed to contribute to the local community and national innovation. With 2 Masters by Research courses available, CDU is the sole choice for international students seeking this level in NT. The university offers dedicated research training and supervision from experienced academics.
Masters Degree (Research) courses in Northern Territory are available in two broad fields: Education (07) and Society and Culture (09). The Education field includes research in pedagogy, curriculum development, and educational leadership – particularly relevant to NT's diverse and remote schools. Society and Culture covers disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, political science, and indigenous studies. Given NT's unique demographic and cultural landscape, these fields offer rich opportunities for original research. Students can expect to work with communities and government bodies to address real-world challenges. All courses are CRICOS-registered and comply with ESOS standards.
English language requirements vary by provider for Masters Degree (Research) courses in Northern Territory. Typically, you need an IELTS overall band of 6.5–7.0 with no band below 6.0, or equivalent (TOEFL, PTE Academic, Cambridge English). However, some courses may accept IELTS 5.5 for pathway programs. Always check the specific entry requirements on the provider's website. For CDU, the standard is IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) for research degrees. HeadStart Academy recommends confirming with the institution or a registered migration agent for visa purposes.
To study a Masters Degree (Research) in Northern Territory, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, meet genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold adequate health insurance. OSHC must be arranged before visa grant. For dependents (if applicable), you may need Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but is not a MARA agent. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for specific advice. See our Student Visa Guide for more details.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field, and location (NT). Use our site to compare Charles Darwin University's offerings. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – meet entry requirements (including research proposal, academic transcripts, and English test scores). Check application deadlines, as research degrees may have intakes in February and July. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have a CoE, lodge your visa application with evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Processing times vary.
Northern Territory offers a unique study experience with a small but vibrant international student community in Darwin (around 3,000 students). Living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne – average weekly rent for a share house is A$150–A$250, and public transport is affordable with student concessions. Darwin's climate is tropical with a wet and dry season. The city has direct flights to Asia and is a gateway to national parks like Kakadu and Uluru. However, the number of providers and courses is limited compared to eastern states. If you are seeking a research degree in indigenous studies or tropical health, NT provides unmatched context. Consider your career goals and lifestyle preferences before deciding.
Ready to find your Masters Degree (Research) course in NT? Use our search tool to compare CRICOS-registered programs and start your application today.
Showing 2 masters degree (research) courses from 1 CRICOS provider in Northern Territory.
Counted from the official register for NT: 2 non-expired CRICOS courses across 1 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.