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Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts

Key details

Duration

3 year/s full-time
6 year/s part-time
3 year/s full-time

Intake

Semester 1, Semester 2, Summer Semester
On campus - Semester 1, Semester 2, Summer Semester
Online - No
Important Dates

Locations

Casuarina campus, Online
Casuarina campus

Credit points required

240

Course code

WARTS2
SATAC codes
MyNextCourse

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts is a highly flexible, new-age degree featuring a choice of nine majors, each offering a unique perspective on the world around you and your role in it. You'll learn how to improve your decision making, generate new ideas, and think critically and creatively.

At a time when some jobs are disappearing, others are evolving and new jobs are emerging, these are the transferable skills that will future proof your career.

CDU's Bachelor of Arts develops both the breadth and depth of your knowledge. It gives you the freedom to focus on your area of interest, while also studying other subjects from a wide range of fields.

At CDU, you'll benefit from a unique focus on Indigenous leadership and the issues and opportunities facing Northern Australia and South-East Asia.

You'll also have the flexibility to study online, on campus or a mix of both, part time or full time. With 24/7 access to learning materials and online collaboration tools, you can study when it suits you.

Choose from nine majors:

Communications, Literature and Digital Media: Explore how the digital age is changing communication, interaction and the way information is shared. Learn about social media, media ethics, creative and professional writing, and multi-screen communication.

Society and Culture: Learn how philosophy, sociology and Indigenous knowledge traditions influence the way we think about the world and make decisions. You'll explore the social issues facing Northern Australia and Southeast Asia and the cultural drivers that impact change.

Global Humanities in a Digital Age: Examine the impact of today's digital environment on politics, public policy and government decision making in Australia and South-East Asia, and understand how lessons learned from the past can inform the government decisions of the future.

Indigenous Governance and Policy: Develop the knowledge and skills to develop meaningful policy and implement change for Australia's Indigenous peoples. You'll learn about the sociological, economic, historical and cultural drivers that impact Australia's Indigenous policy making and governance.

Contemporary Indigenous Australia: Gain the skills and knowledge to work with Indigenous cultures and communities in a culturally-competent way. This major focuses on developing your inter-cultural practice, with an emphasis on the role of Indigenous languages, cultural sites, land rights and resources, community engagement and advocacy.

Languages and Linguistics: Learn a new language and examine the role of language and linguistics in our communities - Chinese, Greek, Indonesian or one of three Indigenous languages (Yolngu, Arrernte or Bininj Kunwok). Explore the mechanics of language, the role of languages in our socioeconomic and political lives, and how languages shape our identities and strengthen communities. Opportunities exist to advance your language skills with an in-country study program.

Creative and Digital Arts: Gain the skills, knowledge and portfolio to succeed in the creative and digital arts industries. Learn about creative theory and business practices and complete a range of creative projects using new and emerging design technologies.

Music Making, Production and Performance: Learn to make, produce and perform music. You'll complete a combination of theory-based and hands-on subjects using new and emerging technologies, and gain industry experience through community-based projects.

Architectural Design: Explore the concepts and theories of architectural design, focusing on Australia's north, the tropics and South-East Asia. Learn how to represent your ideas, understand space and the built form, and use industry-standard tools, technologies and architectural techniques.



Credit transfers and advanced standing

Pathways

Pathways for VET to Higher Education

Guaranteed credit transfer arrangements are available to students commencing a bachelor degree at Charles Darwin University with completed Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree qualifications in the same field or discipline. Students who hold completed qualifications should refer to the additional information provided about Advanced Standing and Credit Transfer and Pathways using the links below:


Pathways for Higher Education to Higher Education

For information about credit transfer available to students with complete or incomplete study at this or other Institutions refer to Pathways for Higher Education to Higher Education

Credit transfer

For further information on credit transfer and how to apply visit ASK CDU

Credit transfers and advanced standing

Credit transfer

For further information on credit transfer and how to apply visit ASK CDU

Fees

Commonwealth supported places

Commonwealth Supported places are available in this course to students who meet one of the following residency requirements:

(a) be an Australian citizen, who will complete some of your course of study while resident in Australia; or

(b) a New Zealand citizen; or an Australian permanent visa holder; or an eligible former permanent humanitarian visa holder; who studies the entire course while living in Australia.

Further information about fees and charges can be found at Fees and Payments.

International tuition fees

The annual tuition fee for full time study in 2024 is AUD $27,096.00. This equates to $ $3,387.00 per 10 credit point unit (0.125 EFTSL).
These fees are subject to increases annually, effective at the start of each calendar year.

You can find a list of International fees and payments you can expect to pay as part of your studies in Australia.

CDU offers a number of scholarships to international students to assist with the cost of study.

CDU students in a computer lab

Why study arts at CDU?

Future-proof your career when you study arts with us. You'll learn to think critically and creatively in a rapidly changing world. Our courses are highly flexible and tailored to fit your interests and career goals, whether you study Indigenous governance and policy, creative and digital arts, communications, architectural design, or one of many other majors.

  • #2 in Australia for creative arts starting salaries (GUG 2024)
  • #4 in Australia for humanities employment outcomes (GUG 2024) 
  • Learn from leaders in Indigenous and Asia Pacific knowledge, with close ties to important research initiatives
  • Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you

 

Creative arts student drawing in workshop

Why study arts at CDU?

Future-proof your career when you study arts with us. You'll learn to think critically and creatively in a rapidly changing world. Our courses are highly flexible and tailored to fit your interests and career goals.

  • #2 in Australia for creative arts starting salaries (GUG 2024)
  • #4 in Australia for humanities employment outcomes (GUG 2024) 
  • Learn from leaders in Indigenous and Asia Pacific knowledge, with close ties to important research initiatives
CDU students in a computer lab

Why study arts at CDU?

Future-proof your career when you study arts with us. You'll learn to think critically and creatively in a rapidly changing world. Our courses are highly flexible and tailored to fit your interests and career goals, whether you study Indigenous governance and policy, creative and digital arts, communications, architectural design, or one of many other majors.

  • #2 in Australia for creative arts starting salaries (GUG 2024)
  • #4 in Australia for humanities employment outcomes (GUG 2024) 
  • Learn from leaders in Indigenous and Asia Pacific knowledge, with close ties to important research initiatives
  • Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you

 

Creative arts student drawing in workshop

Why study arts at CDU?

Future-proof your career when you study arts with us. You'll learn to think critically and creatively in a rapidly changing world. Our courses are highly flexible and tailored to fit your interests and career goals.

  • #2 in Australia for creative arts starting salaries (GUG 2024)
  • #4 in Australia for humanities employment outcomes (GUG 2024) 
  • Learn from leaders in Indigenous and Asia Pacific knowledge, with close ties to important research initiatives

What will I study?

The Bachelor of Arts offers students a pathway into diverse specialist and interdisciplinary thematic areas with nine majors available including; communications, literature and digital media; society and culture; global humanities in a digital age; Indigenous governance and policy; contemporary Indigenous Australian; languages and linguistics; creative and digital arts; music making, production and performance; and architectural design.

Course structure

As a student, your journey through this program will develop core communication, critical and creative thinking skills to prepare you to participate in a multi-disciplinary and global workforce.


A candidate must successfully complete units totalling 240 credit points as detailed below. All units are valued at 10 credit points unless otherwise indicated. 

Students are required to:

  • complete the four (4) compulsory core units
  • complete all requirements from one of the majors. You may choose to undertake a second major and/or units within the entire course.
  • pass at least 30 credit points at level 300 to complete a major
  • take a minimum of 60 credit points of level 300 units
  • take a maximum of 100 credit points from level 100 units 
     
Unit typeCredit PointsSpecific requirements
Core Units 
(4 units)
40cpCompulsory Core units totalling 40 credit points as detailed below: 

IAS101 Indigenous Australia 
CRA101 The Creative North (replaces IAS102 from 2024)  
IAS201 Cultural Capabilities 
IAS202 Northern Futures 
 
Specialist Electives 
(8 - 17 units)
80 - 180cp

Specialist Elective units selected from one of the Majors as detailed below: 

COMMUNICATIONS, LITERATURE AND DIGITAL MEDIA 
Complete 80-160cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS111 Introduction to Australasian Literature 
IAS112 Creative Practice in a Digital Context 
IAS113 Introducing Communications Studies 
IAS114 Introduction to Screen Media 
IAS211 Media and Professional Writing 
IAS212 Media and Culture in Global Communications 
IAS213 Guilty Reading: Topics in Popular Genres 
IAS214 Contemporary Literature and Writing 
IAS215 Screen Media and Production 1 
IAS216 Screen Media and Production 2 
IAS311 Writing, Journalism and Media Ethics 
IAS312 Communication Studies Research Project 
IAS314 Research in Literary Studies 
IAS315 Digital Sound Recording and Design 
IAS316 Digital Media Research Project 
IAS319 Workshop in Short Stories and Poetry (replaces IAS313 from 2024)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable) 

SOCIETY AND CULTURE 
Complete 80-160cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS121 Critical and Creative Thinking 
IAS122 Ethics and Happiness (unit title change 2022) 
IAS123 Sociological Perspectives 
IAS124 Contested Knowledges 
IAS221 Social Identities and Relationships 
IAS222 Global Sociology 
IAS223 Representing and Recording Country 
IAS224 Philosophy of Arts and Culture (not offered 2024)
IAS225 Cultural Resource and Site Management 
IAS245 Indigenous Contemporary Perspectives 
IAS321 Indigenous Sovereignty and Challenges of Reconciliation 
IAS322 Research with Indigenous People 
IAS323 Modern Sociological Perspectives (not offered 2024) 
IAS324 Sociology of Crime and Deviance 
IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science 
IAS326 Social Cognition and Power in the Digital Age 
IAS339 Intercultural Mediation (new from 2024)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable)

GLOBAL HUMANITIES IN A DIGITAL AGE 
Complete 80-160cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS131 Colonising Australia 
IAS132 Colonial Rule in South-East Asia 
IAS133 Introduction to International Relations 
IAS124 Contested Knowledges 
IAS231 Colonial North Australia 
IAS232 Themes in Global History 
IAS234 Indonesia: State and Society (no longer offered)
IAS235 China and International Relations (new from 2024) 
IAS236 Indonesia and the World (no longer offered) 
IAS237 Ancient Civilisations and Societies (replaces IAS233 from 2023) 
IAS243 Indigenous Policy Agendas in Federal and State Politics 
IAS331 South-East Asia in the 20th Century 
IAS332 North Australia in the 20th Century 
IAS333 Political Ideas 
IAS334 Politics of Indonesia (not offered 2024) 
IAS335 War, Revolutions and Terror 
IAS336 Major Issues in Contemporary Indonesia (not offered 2024)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable)

INDIGENOUS GOVERNANCE AND POLICY 
Complete 80-160cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS131 Colonising Australia 
IAS142 Ethics and Protocols in Indigenous Contexts 
IAS123 Sociological Perspectives 
IAS144 Indigenous Land and Resources 
IAS241 Indigenous Policy Principles and Practice (not offered 2024) 
IAS242 Indigenous Governance and Leadership (not offered 2024) 
IAS243 Indigenous Policy Agendas in Federal and State Politics 
IAS244 Indigenous Knowledges, Property Rights and Economic Participation (not offered 2024) 
IAS245 Indigenous Contemporary Perspectives 
IAS246 Advocacy and Social Action 
IAS321 Indigenous Sovereignty and Challenges of Reconciliation 
IAS322 Research with Indigenous People 
IAS341 Indigenous Knowledges and Epistemologies (not offered 2024) 
IAS342 Neocolonialism, Advocacy and the Critique of Development 
IAS343 Race and Policy 
IAS344 Indigenous People and Social Justice 
IAS339 Intercultural Mediation (new from 2024)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable)

CONTEMPORARY INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIA  
Complete 80-160cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS131 Colonising Australia 
IAS142 Ethics and Protocols in Indigenous Contexts 
IAS124 Contested Knowledges 
IAS144 Indigenous Lands and Resources 
IAS223 Representing and Recording Country 
IAS225 Cultural Resource and Site Management 
IAS245 Indigenous Contemporary Perspectives 
IAS246 Advocacy and Social Action 
IAS252 Language and Identity (unit title change 2022) 
IAS254 Partnership and Engagement in Indigenous Land and Sea Management 
IAS322 Research with Indigenous People 
IAS351 Indigenous Networking and Collaboration (not offered 2024) 
IAS352 Practices and Skills in Indigenous Community Work 
IAS353 Indigenous Cultures and the Environment 
IAS354 Impact Assessment and Management of Cultural Sites (not offered 2024) 
IAS355 Indigenous Knowledges and Wellbeing 
IAS339 Intercultural Mediation (new from 2024)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable)

LANGUAGES AND LINGUISTICS 
Complete 80-170cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

CHN161 Chinese Language (Mandarin) 1 (new from 2023) 
CHN162 Chinese Language (Mandarin) 2 (new from 2023) 
CHN261 Chinese Language (Mandarin) 3 (new from 2023) 
CHN262 Chinese Language (Mandarin) 4 (new from 2023) 
HEL161 Greek Language 1 (new from 2023) 
HEL162 Greek Language 2 (new from 2023) 
HEL261 Greek Language 3 (new from 2023) 
HEL262 Greek Language 4 (new from 2023) 
INI161 Indonesian Language 1 (new from 2023) 
INI162 Indonesian Language 2 (new from 2023) 
INI261 Indonesian Language 3 (new from 2023) 
INI262 Indonesian Language 4 (new from 2023) 
YOL161 Yolngu Languages and Culture 1 (new from 2023) 
YOL162 Yolngu Languages and Culture 2 (new from 2023) 
YOL261 Yolngu Languages and Culture 3 (new from 2023) 
YOL262 Yolngu Languages and Culture 4 (new from 2023) 
IAS161 Language Studies 1 (repeatable) (replaced by CHN161, HEL161, INI161, YOL161 from 2023) 
IAS162 Language Studies 2 (repeatable) (replaced by CHN162, HEL162, INI162, YOL162 from 2023) 
IAS261 Language Studies 3 (repeatable) (replaced by CHN261, HEL261, INI261, YOL261 from 2023) 
IAS262 Language Studies 4 (repeatable) (replaced by CHN262, HEL262, INI262, YOL262 from 2023) 
IAS164 Linguistics for Indigenous Languages 2 (no longer offered 2022) 
IAS163 Introduction to Linguistics (unit title change 2022) 
IAS165 Language in Society 
IAS264 Language Documentation Methods and Tools (unit title change 2022) 
IAS265 Meaning in Language: Semantics (unit title change 2022) 
IAS267 Languages in Contact 
IAS268 Sounds and Sound Systems: Phonetics and Phonology (new in course from 2022) 
IAS269  Word and Sentence Structure: Morphology and Syntax (new in course from 2022) 
TES102 Language, Meaning and Learning (new from 2024) 
TES203 Language Teaching Approaches and Methodologies (new from 2024) 
TES204 Understanding Language Acquisition (replaces IAS266 from 2023) 
TES206 Language Testing (new from 2024) 
TES307 Global Englishes (new from 2024) 
IAS361 Indigenous Language Maintenance and Revitalisation - (no longer offered from 2022) 
IAS362 Advanced Language Studies (repeatable) 
IAS363 Language Planning for Revitalisation and Maintenance (unit title change 2022) 
IAS364 Dictionary Making 
IAS365 Linguistic Applications in Indigenous Language Analysis (not offered 2024) 
IAS366 Language Centre Management (not offered 2024)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable) 
IAS406 Language Transition and Protocols (repeatable) 

CREATIVE AND DIGITAL ARTS  
Complete 120-170cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS171 Creative Studio 1 (20cp) 
IAS172 Creative Studio 2 (20cp) 
IAS173 Drawing and Other Visual Representation Tools (repeatable) 
IAS174 Digital media and Online Content Design 
CRA201 Contemporary Creative Practice (not offered in 2024) 
CRA202 Creative Practice Responding to Country (New from 2024) 
IAS271 Creative Studio 3 (20cp) 
IAS272 Creative Studio 4 (20cp) 
IAS273 Sculptural Design (repeatable) 
IAS274 Digital Image Capture and Photographic Media (repeatable) 
IAS371 Creative Practice and Theory (20cp) (repeatable) 
IAS372 Business of Creative Industries

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable) 

MUSIC MAKING, PRODUCTION AND PERFORMANCE  
Complete 120-180cp from the following units. 
At least 30cp at 300 level must be passed to complete the Major.

IAS184 Digital Composition 
IAS181 Music Making and Theory 1 (20cp) 
IAS182 Music Making and Theory 2 (20cp) 
IAS281 Music Making and Theory 3 (20cp) 
IAS282 Music Making and Theory 4 (20cp) 
IAS381 Music Making, Production and Performance (20cp) (repeatable)  
IAS283 Indigenous and Community Music (not offered in 2024) 
IAS284 Choral Studies (unit title change 2023) (repeatable) 
IAS315 Digital Sound Recording and Design 
IAS382 Music for Playing and Wellbeing (IAS382 Instrumental or Vocal Practice - new unit title from S2 2023) 
IAS383 Music History (new unit title 2023)

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable)

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN  
Complete a minimum of 160cps from the following:

IAS191 Architectural Design 1 (20cp) 
IAS192 Architectural Design 2 (20cp) 
IAS291 Architectural Design 3 (20cp) 
IAS292 Architectural Design 4 (20cp) 
IAS391 Architectural Design 5 (20cp) 
IAS392 Architectural Design 6 (20cp) 
IAS193 Design and Representation in Architecture 
IAS194 Architectural Technology and Environment 1 
IAS293 Architectural Technology and Environment 2 
IAS294 Architectural Technology and Environment 3 
IAS393 Architectural Theory and Practice (repeatable) 

You may, in consultation with the coordinator of your major, choose to undertake units from the capstone units listed below. These units are an invaluable opportunity to gain experience before entering the workforce or starting postgraduate study. They are designed to build on the particular strengths and skills you have acquired whilst studying your major.

The units are only available for manual enrolment. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment eForm accessed via the eForms tile through the CDU Portal.

IAS401 Foundations for Professional Practice and Skills (repeatable) 
IAS402 Intercultural Practice (repeatable) 
IAS403 Independent Study (repeatable) 
IAS404 In-Country Placement (repeatable) 
IAS405 Placement Experience (repeatable)

General Electives 
(2 - 12 units)
20 - 120cpUnits totalling between 20 - 120 credit points may be selected from undergraduate units offered by the University.   

You may take between 2 and 12 general elective units, which are selected from undergraduate units offered by CDU, including units offered within the Bachelor of Arts program that are not part of your major. 

When selecting electives, choose units at a suitable level. The first number in each unit code indicates the year level at which the subject is taught. Undergraduate units are coded at 100 to 300 level, therefore units coded as IAS1xx, IAS2xx and IAS3xx would be first, second and third year units respectively. 

Note: students must not exceed 100 credit points at 100 level units.
 240cpTotal Credit Points

Course Rules (unless otherwise indicated in the above course structure) (240cp)

  • A maximum of 100 credit points may be taken from 100 level units.
  • A minimum of 60 credit points must be taken from 300 level units or above.
  • See the Higher Education Course Rules (Award Requirements) in the Units and Courses Policy.

If course commenced prior to 2023: 
No more than 20 credit points shall be counted with a grade of "PC" in a Bachelor AQF Level 7 course award and no more than 10 credit points at "PC" may be received at the highest level of the program of learning.

Study plan


Students commencing in Semester 1

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student commencing in semester 1 and enrolling in a standard full time load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to reduce or vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.

When designing an individual study plan:

  • maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
  • check the assumed knowledge for each unit as some 200 and 300 level units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level. 200 level units have the unit code which includes a number starting with 200.
Legend:CO = Core UnitSE = Specialist ElectiveE = Elective

 Full-time Study Plan

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
IAS101 Indigenous AustraliaCOCRA101 The Creative NorthCO
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 100 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 100 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 100 levelSE
Year 2
IAS201 Cultural CapabilitiesCOIAS202 Northern FuturesCO
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE
Year 3
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300/400 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300/400 levelSE

 

Students commencing in Semester 2

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student commencing in semester 2 and enrolling in a standard full time load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to reduce or vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.

When designing an individual study plan:

  • maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
  • check the assumed knowledge for each unit as some 200 and 300 level units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level. 200 level units have the unit code which includes a number starting with 200.
Legend:CO = Core UnitSE = Specialist ElectiveE = Elective

 Full-time Study Plan

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
  CRA101 The Creative NorthCO
  Specialist Elective - 100 levelSE
  Specialist Elective - 100 levelSE
  Specialist Elective - 100 levelSE
Year 2
IAS101 Indigenous AustraliaCOIAS202 Northern FuturesCO
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE
Year 3
IAS201 Cultural CapabilitiesCOSpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE
Year 4
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 300/400 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 300/400 levelSE  

 

Students Commencing in Summer Semester

The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student commencing in Summer Semester and enrolling in a standard full time load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to reduce or vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.

When designing an individual study plan:

  • maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
  • check the assumed knowledge for each unit as some 200 and 300 level units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level. 200 level units have the unit code which includes a number starting with 200.
Semester 1Semester 2Summer Semester
Year 1
    Specialist Elective - 100 levelSE
    IAS101 Indigenous AustraliaCO
    IAS201 Cultural CapabilitiesCO
    IAS202 Northern FuturesCO
Year 2
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSECRA101 The Creative NorthCO  
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 100 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 100 levelSESpecialist Elective - 200 levelSE  
Year 3
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE  
Specialist Elective - 200 levelSESpecialist Elective - 300 levelSE  
Year 4
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSE    
Specialist Elective - 300 levelSE    
Specialist Elective - 300/400 levelSE    
Specialist Elective - 300/400 levelSE    

 

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

Admission requirements are met by one of the following:

  • Successful completion of the Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (or equivalent) and the awarding of an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of at least 60*.
  • Successful completion of a national qualification at Certificate III level or higher.
  • Successful completion of at least 0.5 year of full-time study (or equivalent) of a higher education degree/diploma.
  • Overseas secondary or tertiary qualifications considered equivalent to the above Australian qualifications.
  • Attainment of a STAT Multiple Choice score of 140.
  • Successful completion of the Tertiary Enabling Program, the Preparation for Tertiary Success courses, or other recognised tertiary preparation course.
  • Submission of an acceptable personal competencies statement and/or employment experience.
  • Defence members with service of 1 year or more at the following ranks (or higher) meet the academic entry requirement for this course:
    • Navy: Seaman, Able Seaman, Leading Seaman
    • Air Force: Aircraftmen/Aircraftwoman, Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Corporal
    • Army: Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal
  • Current School Leaver Pathways:
    • Best of 3 Year 12 subject grades
    • School recommendation program

* After any applicable adjustment factors have been applied.

International entry pathway

International applicants who have completed the CDU Foundation Studies Program and achieved a minimum mark of 65% in the Foundation English units A and B are eligible to apply.

Essential requirements

English language requirements

To gain entry into Charles Darwin University, all Higher Education applicants must satisfy the University's English Language Proficiency requirements for their chosen course of study. From 2025 ALL applicants will be required to supply evidence of this at the time of application. For further details on the English requirements for CDU courses, please refer to CDU English Language Proficiency Policy.

DOMESTIC STUDENTS   
English language proficiency requirements - Domestic students

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS   
English language proficiency requirements - International students   
Course specific English language proficiency requirements for International students are included below.

The minimum English language requirement for this course is met by either undertaking previous education from an English-speaking country or undertaking one of the following English language tests and obtaining the minimum requirements listed below.

CDU English for Academic Purposes 3 (ZEAP30)Successful completion of EAP003 English for Academic Purposes 3
IELTS Academic Module (including One Skill Retake)A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 6.0.
Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)A minimum overall score of 169, with no skill below 169.
Common European Framework Certificate of English ProficiencyA minimum overall grade of B2.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic moduleA minimum overall score of 50 with no score lower than 50.
TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT)A minimum overall score of 60 and a minimum writing score of 21.

* All tests are valid for two years from the date of the test to the date of commencement at CDU, unless otherwise specified.
* Where applicable, international applicants must also satisfy the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) English language requirements for student visa applications.

Do you have a question regarding English requirements at CDU? Please email: international@cdu.edu.au.
 

ATAR profile

The following table represents the ATAR and selection rank profile for applicants offered a place on the basis of their ATAR in semester 1, 2023

ATAR based offers onlyATAR
(excluding adjustment factors)
Selection Rank
(ATAR plus any adjustment factors)
Lowest rank to receive an offer 57.30 61.90
Median rank to receive an offer 70.13 74.95
Highest rank to receive an offer 87.15 95.10

Notes
"<5" indicates less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made.

The Arts courses at CDU are flexible and adaptable, with the option to choose from a wide range of both practical and specialised majors or study themes. We encourage students to ask about how a program can be tailored to fit their interests and career goals. Don’t be afraid to ask that question.

Professor Ruth Wallace

Ruth Wallace

The Arts courses at CDU are flexible and adaptable, with the option to choose from a wide range of both practical and specialised majors or study themes. We encourage students to ask about how a program can be tailored to fit their interests and career goals. Don't be afraid to ask that question.

Professor Ruth Wallace

Ruth Wallace

The Arts courses at CDU are flexible and adaptable, with the option to choose from a wide range of both practical and specialised majors or study themes. We encourage students to ask about how a program can be tailored to fit their interests and career goals. Don’t be afraid to ask that question.

Professor Ruth Wallace

Ruth Wallace

The Arts courses at CDU are flexible and adaptable, with the option to choose from a wide range of both practical and specialised majors or study themes. We encourage students to ask about how a program can be tailored to fit their interests and career goals. Don't be afraid to ask that question.

Professor Ruth Wallace

Ruth Wallace

Course details

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University in accordance with the Higher Education Standards.

Inherent Requirements

There are inherent requirements for this course. Students must read and understand the requirements for this course.

Australian qualification framework

This course is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.

Student profile

The table below gives an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this course. It provides data on students that commenced this course and passed the census date in Semester 1, 2023.

Applicant background (Semester one intake 2023)No. of Students% of all Students
A. Higher education study
(includes a bridging or enabling course)
29 .0
B. Vocational education and training (VET) study 9 .0
C. Work and life experience
(Admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories)
<5N/P
D. Recent secondary education
  • Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR

(regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points)

10 .0
  • Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered

(e.g. portfolio, audition, extra offer conditional on minimum ATAR)

<5N/P
  • Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor

(e.g. special consideration, audition alone, schools recommendation scheme with no minimum ATAR requirement)

<5N/P
International students<5N/P
All students 48 .0

Notes
"<5" - the number of students is less than 5
N/A - Students not accepted in this category
N/P - Not published: the number is hidden to prevent calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students.

Additional information

Can offers be deferred?
Yes
Award
Bachelor of Arts
Faculty/College
Faculty of Arts and Society
Sector
HE
Area of study
Arts, Languages and Linguistics, Humanities and Social Sciences, Creative and Performing Arts, Indigenous Knowledges, Communications and Design

Contact details

For further information about the course, enrolment procedures, closing dates and other administrative issues please contact Student Central on:

Email:Student.Central@cdu.edu.auPhone:1800 061 963 (free call)

You make CDU

Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.

You make CDU

Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.

You make CDU

Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.

You make CDU

Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.

How to apply

There are many ways to apply to CDU. The method you use depends on your course type, where you live and whether you are a new or returning student to CDU.

Remember to apply early for your best chance at securing an offer to study with us.

SATAC

SATAC is the application channel for residents of NT, ACT, SA, WA, QLD, VIC, NSW or TAS.

MyNextCourse

Direct applications are available to students who have completed a CDU or BIITE course at a Certificate III level or higher. Most CDU and BIITE enabling programs are also accepted through this process.

International applications

Applications must be submitted online through our application portal, Studylink. You'll need a valid email address to create your online account. Once you have started your application, you will be able to save it and resume it later. There is no application fee when you apply online.

You may be able to lodge a direct application; however, there may be restrictions on your geographic location. If you cannot submit a direct application via the application portal, please apply through one of our registered agents.

Apply through StudyLink or through an Agent.

International applicants currently studying year 12 in Australia should apply via SATAC.

If you do not meet any of the criteria above please visit Pathways to study to view the options available to you.

SATAC codes

Location
SATAC Code
Casuarina campus
Architectural Design (CSP)
104751
Communications, Literature and Digital Media (CSP)
104761
Society and Culture (CSP)
104831
Music Making, Production and Performance (CSP)
104821
Languages and Linguistics (CSP)
104811
Indigenous Governance and Policy (CSP)
104801
Global Humanities in a Digital Age (CSP)
104791
Creative and Digital Arts (CSP)
104781
Contemporary Indigenous Australia (CSP)
104771
Online
Architectural Design (CSP)
104751
Music Making, Production and Performance (CSP)
104821
Languages and Linguistics (CSP)
104811
Indigenous Governance and Policy (CSP)
104801
Society and Culture (CSP)
104831
Creative and Digital Arts (CSP)
104781
Contemporary Indigenous Australia (CSP)
104771
Communications, Literature and Digital Media (CSP)
104761
Global Humanities in a Digital Age (CSP)
104791
* CSP = Commonwealth supported place
FF = Full fee

CRICOS codes

Location
CRICOS Code
Casuarina campus
Architectural Design
0101026
Communications, Literature and Digital Media
0101026
Society and Culture
0101026
Music Making, Production and Performance
0101026
Languages and Linguistics
0101026
Indigenous Governance and Policy
0101026
Global Humanities in a Digital Age
0101026
Creative and Digital Arts
0101026
Contemporary Indigenous Australia
0101026

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