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CDU students, Casuarina Campus

Why Choose CDU

The CDU difference

Like our namesake Charles Darwin, we think differently. We innovate, embrace change, challenge conventions and look for better ways.

We’re not about tradition or legacy, privilege or exclusivity. We care about people as individuals, as well as the wider society. We’re about what you can give to the world, rather than what you take.

We cannot build a better world without diversity of thought; therefore, we bring those with unique perspectives together in an inclusive and supportive learning environment to connect, discover and grow. 

This is the CDU difference.

Flexible and supportive learning environment

At CDU, you will benefit from our ability to offer smaller class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio of about one teacher to every 15-20 students.

Domestic students can choose to study online or on campus with most courses offered both full-time and part-time. And with the ability to switch between modes, you will have the flexibility you need to balance study, work and family, even if your circumstances change.

As an international student, you will study full-time and on campus. With 11 campuses and centres located around Australia, you could be studying in tropical Darwin, the outback of Alice Springs or in one of our more famous cities - Sydney. 

A leader in First Nations education

Each year CDU teaches over 4,000 Indigenous students in over 150 locations across the NT.

CDU is committed to being a leader among Australian universities in relation to First Nations participation and relevance in its Strategic Plan, and by implication, significantly contribute to the social, cultural and economic well-being of First Nations people and communities in the Northern Territory and beyond.

Learn more

Research impact

We are a research-intensive university with a commitment to building collaborative, co-designed research support. Concentrated within the central unit of Research and Innovation, we provide high-quality support and administration of research and consultancy projects, from conception to completion.

As we foster an environment where unique voices connect, we provide unparalleled opportunities for research and scholarships. Become part of a community dedicated to shaping a better world through collaborative research and scholarship initiatives. Join us at CDU, where innovation, diversity and academic excellence converge to redefine the future of education and research.

Discover our research

Our rankings

  • Top Australian university for employment outcomes

    According to The Good Universities Guide 2025 CDU ranks as a leader for graduate employment outcomes

  • 30 years' experience in distance and online education

    We have what it takes to support flexible study

  • Top 100 university in the Asia Pacific

    According to the Times Higher Education Asia-Pacific University Rankings 2019

Our rankings
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Scholarship support

Some students receive scholarships for their outstanding academic performance, talent and passion for their area of study. Others are recognised for their commitment and vision in their local community, or their sports involvement or work placement.

Importantly, there are also scholarships to help students who are struggling financially and those who may otherwise be excluded from studying due their socioeconomic, cultural or geographic circumstances.

Learn more
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Meet our students

We bring those with unique paths, perspectives and experiences together in an inclusive and supportive learning environment to help them make a change for the better and build their new world. 

Discover their stories. 

Student stories

Over 300 certificates, diplomas and degrees to choose from

News

Visit the CDU Newsroom
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