Charles Darwin University is somewhat unique. No other single Australian university serves such a large area of the continent, in such a remote location and with such a small population to sustain it. While the Northern Territory covers around 16 per cent of Australia, in 2015 it was home to just over 1 per cent of the population, 30 per cent of whom were Indigenous compared with around 3 per cent of the general Australian population. The only university based in the Northern Territory, CDU is a dual sector university. It is the most northerly Australian university, closer in many respects to the vast populations of Asia than to the southern Australian states.

<h4>Applying for postgraduate study</h4>

Not everybody goes straight from school into higher education. In fact, many adult learners would argue that life experience makes the tertiary experience all the more rewarding. Charles Darwin University has a number of adult learners entering the University through many different pathways. If you don't meet the minimum entry requirements and would like to discuss your options, feel free to contact Student Services or call into an Student Central, at our Casuarina or Alice Springs campuses. 
&nbsp;

<h4>More about Charles Darwin University</h4>

CDU is a university deeply engaged with, and informed by, Australia’s Indigenous people. Recognising that it operates on the lands of many strong Indigenous nations, respecting the knowledges and culture of Aboriginal people and committed to Indigenous advancement. These are truly unique features that CDU embraces as both challenges and opportunities for the years ahead, building on the strong foundations and remarkable achievements of its 25-year history. In this relatively short space of time CDU have developed a reputation as one of the most innovative teaching and learning and most research intensive universities in Australia and have risen to the ranks of the top 2 per cent of world universities in 2015.

CDU has provided, and will continue to provide, the human capital that underpins the future prosperity of Northern Australia and our near Asian region, while also providing innovative and flexible online learning choices for a broader national student market.

CDU is ideally placed to prepare graduates for success in an increasingly complex, diverse and connected world.

Charles Darwin University (CDU)

<h4>How to apply</h4>

Applications to CDU must be submitted online. The process is simple, all you need is a valid email address to create your online account. Once you have started the application you will have the option of saving your application and resuming it at a later date. There is no application fee when you apply online.

Southern Cross is a different kind of university

Southern Cross University stands for what matters. It’s an ethos that informs the courses, the research and the direction of the university.&nbsp;

Southern Cross is committed to protecting and managing our precious natural resources, to understanding and advancing our human world. Regenerating, challenging, exploring, experimenting, finding solutions where they appeared to be none, building knowledge from the ground up. Adapting to and finding resilience in an uncertain world.

All three of the main campuses at Gold Coast, Lismore and Coffs Harbour offer something unique, thanks to their locations and the vibrant communities that live in these subtropical areas, communities that nourish the thinking and the academic rigour that define the University. The online campus at Southern Cross is a dynamic, connected community, where distance is no barrier to a deeply satisfying university experience. 

Whether you study at one of the beautiful campuses or online, the small class sizes mean the lecturers know you by name, while the flexible support services and study options reflect a community that can’t wait to see you flourish and succeed at Southern Cross. 

Top 150 Young Universities (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020)

Southern Cross is a young university, but has come a long way in 25 years and is now ranked among the world’s top young universities.&nbsp; 

Southern Cross is ranked in the top 3% of universities in the world in Life Sciences, in the top 4% in Physical Sciences (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020) and in the top 3% for Agriculture and Forestry (QS Rankings 2020).

Additionally, the University achieved world standard or above results in 23 key research areas (Excellence in Research for Australia 2018). 

No.1 in Australia for overall international student support (International Student Barometer)

There’s never been a more important time to feel supported. No matter who you are, Southern Cross University’s 5-star student support (The Good Universities Guide 2020) is available to you. Support programs include:

<ul>
	<li>Academic skills – individual appointments, UniMentor Program and the Learning Experience Team</li>
	<li>International students – academic pathways, settling in and dedicated advisers</li>
	<li>Student access and inclusion – supporting and educating the University community in matters relating to disability</li>
	<li>Indigenous Australian Student Services – a wide range of information, advice and support for Indigenous Australian students</li>
	<li>Counselling, careers and employability and a multifaith chaplaincy.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Southern Cross graduate stories. Listen to the people who have already been there.&nbsp;</h3>

Maria Smith

Online MBA (Managing and Leading People) graduate

<blockquote>
“For me the support I’ve had during the course has been fantastic. Just to get a call for a ‘How are you going?’ or ‘What do you need?’ That’s been great!
</blockquote>

Steffen Westmann

Bachelor of Business (Honours)

<blockquote>
“The academic support in completing this research thesis is quite amazing, my supervisors are really switched on and really helpful.”
</blockquote>

Zohra Ali

Online Master of Laws (Business Law) graduate

<blockquote>
“I chose Southern Cross University because I was attracted to the flexibility of the program. I am able to study at times that are suitable to me rather than having to adhere to a structured attendance timetable. This was an important feature for me as someone who is working full-time and managing a household.”
</blockquote>

Katarzyna Loubet&nbsp;

Bachelor of Social Science with Honours

<blockquote>
“Going to university was one of the best decisions I have made! The rewards of tertiary study are certainly worth all the hard work, the frustrations, and even the tears. It’s an amazing feeling when you get onto that stage to receive your qualifications, you really do feel like anything is possible, it’s a truly fulfilling moment."
</blockquote>

<h3>Upskill with a 12-week short course</h3>

Southern Cross University has announced a suite of short courses for Australians looking to upskill and retrain from mid-2020. 

The new online courses are backed by the Federal Government’s COVID-19 relief package and are designed to enable people to build skills in areas such as health, IT, engineering, science, education and agriculture for a fraction of the usual cost of study – with HECS-HELP available to all Australian citizens.

To find out more, please visit our website.

<h3>Research degrees</h3>

If you are ready to take your research studies or career to the next level, become part of our vibrant and widely recognised research community. This will allow you to benefit from the expertise of our researchers, fellow graduates and staff across a varying range of disciplines. Travelling this pathway with the help and support of supervisors, fellow graduate research students and our University, will be a highly rewarding and life-changing experience. We can help you achieve your goals. 
To find a supervisor or browse our research degree&nbsp;options visit scu.edu.au/graduate-school

<h2>Scholarships</h2>

One application. 380+ scholarships.&nbsp;

Scholarships really make a difference. They make your education attainable by reducing the financial burden – enabling you to focus on your studies and put your learning first. 

Postgraduate scholarships range in value to help pay for textbooks up to living expenses, and fee reductions of up to $8,000 per year. &nbsp;

Scholarships are available for:

<ul>
	<li>Financial hardship</li>
	<li>Academic achievement</li>
	<li>International students</li>
	<li>Indigenous Australian students</li>
	<li>Leadership and community involvement.</li>
</ul>

For more details and how to apply, please visit our website.

<h2>Research Masters and PhD Scholarships</h2>

All students choosing to undertake a research program should refer to the&nbsp;Graduate School’s Scholarships page&nbsp;or the&nbsp;Southern Cross Plant Science’s Scholarship page&nbsp;for full details of available financial support.

<h2>Featured scholarships</h2>

<ul>
	<li><a>Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Scholarship</a></li>
	<li><a>International Advancement Scholarship</a></li>
	<li><a>SCU International Regional Scholarship</a></li>
	<li><a>SCU International Women in STEM Scholarship</a></li>
</ul>

<h2>Campuses</h2>

Gold Coast

The Southern Cross University Gold Coast campus is located at Coolangatta, just 400 meters from North Kirra Beach, and adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport. Many vantage points offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

The campus is spread across three contemporary buildings that house innovative learning spaces, health sciences laboratories, computer labs, student lounges, the University’s Digital Enterprise Lab and an on-campus Health Clinic. 

Lismore

Lismore was the first Southern Cross campus, located in the heart of the Northern Rivers. Set on acres of lush rainforest, Lismore campus is a creative hub within easy reach of both national parks and the ocean.

It is also home to state-of-the-art engineering and environmental science facilities, specialist health labs and simulated hospital wards, a Learning Centre and library complex, heated pool and gym, and an on-campus Health Clinic. Koalas and native wildlife are a common sight on campus.&nbsp;

Coffs Harbour

The University is part of an education precinct in Coffs Harbour, co-located with TAFE NSW and the Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub.

A multi-million dollar Health Sciences Building opened on campus in 2019, with state-of-the-art teaching facilities for our health science students. The campus includes a fitness centre, extensive landscaped grounds and close proximity to beaches and the growing regional centre of Coffs Harbour. 

The University’s National Marine Science Centre is located in nearby Charlesworth Bay. 

Explore the Southern Cross campuses.

<h2>Application process &nbsp;</h2>

Postgraduate application process

If you are an international applicant or applying for postgraduate degrees by coursework, please apply directly to Southern Cross University online. Contact the Graduate School to apply for postgraduate degrees by research.

If you have any questions about your study options or the application process please contact our Future Students team at studentrecruitment@scu.edu.au or call 1800 626 481.&nbsp;

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Find a course 
Search for the <a>postgraduate</a>&nbsp;course you want to study. Refine your search by session or location, or use the keyword search bar e.g. Business.

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Apply

To start your application, click the yellow Apply Now button on the course page and select your campus preference. Make sure you have all your previous study and work experience documents ready to upload.

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Accept and enrol

Southern Cross University will send you a formal offer by email – congratulations! Your next step is to accept the offer and enrol in the course units.

For details on each application step, please visit our website.&nbsp;

Southern Cross also has a range of <a>scholarship opportunities </a>which all students are welcome to apply for.

Southern Cross University combines academic and research excellence with outstanding learning opportunities and a commitment to what matters.

Southern Cross University (SCU)

Southern Cross is a different kind of university

Southern Cross University stands for what matters. It's an ethos that informs the courses, the research and the direction of the university.

Southern Cross is committed to protecting and managing our precious natural resources, to understanding and advancing our human world. Regenerating, challenging, exploring, experimenting, finding solutions where they appeared to be none, building knowledge from the ground up. Adapting to and finding resilience in an uncertain world.

All three of the main campuses at Gold Coast, Lismore and Coffs Harbour offer something unique, thanks to their locations and the vibrant communities that live in these subtropical areas, communities that nourish the thinking and the academic rigour that define the University. The online campus at Southern Cross is a dynamic, connected community, where distance is no barrier to a deeply satisfying university experience.

Whether you study at one of the beautiful campuses or online, the small class sizes mean the lecturers know you by name, while the flexible support services and study options reflect a community that can't wait to see you flourish and succeed at Southern Cross.

Top 150 Young Universities (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020)

Southern Cross is a young university, but has come a long way in 25 years and is now ranked among the world's top young universities.

Southern Cross is ranked in the top 3% of universities in the world in Life Sciences, in the top 4% in Physical Sciences (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020) and in the top 3% for Agriculture and Forestry (QS Rankings 2020).

Additionally, the University achieved world standard or above results in 23 key research areas (Excellence in Research for Australia 2018).

No.1 in Australia for overall international student support (International Student Barometer)

There's never been a more important time to feel supported. No matter who you are, Southern Cross University's 5- star student support (The Good Universities Guide 2020) is available to you. Support programs include:

<ul>
	<li>Academic skills – individual appointments, UniMentor Program and the Learning Experience Team</li>
	<li>International students – academic pathways, settling in and dedicated advisers</li>
	<li>Student access and inclusion – supporting and educating the University community in matters relating to disability</li>
	<li>Indigenous Australian Student Services – a wide range of information, advice and support for Indigenous Australian students</li>
	<li>Counselling, careers and employability and a multifaith chaplaincy.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Southern Cross graduate stories&nbsp;</h3>

Listen to the people who have already been there.

Layla Buckley 
Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Laws graduate

<blockquote>
"I am very proud of my university! I recommend it to everyone. I love that Southern Cross stands for its community, and openly supports and encourages diversity and inclusion, whether it be internationals, people who identify as LGBTIQ+ or our Indigenous community... and the focus on the environment. It's a very forward-thinking university, and I love being a part of it!"
</blockquote>

Sam Murphy 
Bachelor of Business in International Tourism Management graduate

<blockquote>
"My most memorable experience at Southern Cross University was getting the opportunity to learn and engage with incredibly passionate, knowledgeable and supportive lecturers and staff. These people nurtured and understood the areas I was passionate about and shared in this with me during my time at University."
</blockquote>

Katarzyna Loubet 
Bachelor of Social Science with Honours

<blockquote>
"Going to university was one of the best decisions I have made! The rewards of tertiary study are certainly worth all the hard work, the frustrations, and even the tears. It's an amazing feeling when you get onto that stage to receive your qualifications, you really do feel like anything is possible, it's a truly fulfilling moment."
</blockquote>

<h3>Upskill with a 12-week short course</h3>

Southern Cross University has announced a suite of short courses for Australians looking to upskill and retrain from mid-2020.

The new online courses are backed by the Federal Government's COVID-19 relief package and are designed to enable people to build skills in areas such as health, IT, engineering, science, education and agriculture for a fraction of the usual cost of study – with HECS-HELP available to all Australian citizens.

Find out more at scu.edu.au/short-courses

<h3>Scholarships</h3>

One application. 380+ scholarships. Valued up to $60,000.

Scholarships really make a difference. They make your education attainable by reducing the financial burden – enabling you to focus on your studies and put your learning first.

Scholarships range in value from $150, which could help you buy textbooks, to $60,000, which could help pay your living expenses.

Scholarships are available for:

<ul>
	<li>Financial hardship</li>
	<li>Academic achievement</li>
	<li>International students</li>
	<li>Indigenous Australian students</li>
	<li>Leadership and community involvement.</li>
</ul>

For more details and how to apply,&nbsp;visit scu.edu.au/scholarships

Research Masters and PhD Scholarships

All students choosing to undertake a research program should refer to the Graduate School's Scholarships page or the Southern Cross Plant Science's Scholarship page for full details of available financial support. 
Featured scholarships

<ul>
	<li>Vice Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarship</li>
	<li>International Advancement Scholarship</li>
	<li>SCU International Regional Scholarship</li>
	<li>SCU International Women in STEM Scholarship</li>
</ul>

<h3>Campuses</h3>

Gold Coast 
The Southern Cross University Gold Coast campus is located at Coolangatta, just 400 meters from North Kirra Beach, and adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport. Many vantage points offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

The campus is spread across three contemporary buildings that house innovative learning spaces, health sciences laboratories, computer labs, student lounges, the University's Digital Enterprise Lab and an on-campus Health Clinic.

Lismore 
Lismore was the first Southern Cross campus, located in the heart of the Northern Rivers. Set on acres of lush rainforest, Lismore campus is a creative hub within easy reach of both national parks and the ocean.

It is also home to state-of-the-art engineering and environmental science facilities, specialist health labs and simulated hospital wards, a Learning Centre and library complex, heated pool and gym, and an on-campus Health Clinic. Koalas and native wildlife are a common sight on campus.

Coffs Harbour 
The University is part of an education precinct in Coffs Harbour, co-located with TAFE NSW and the Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub.

A multi-million dollar Health Sciences Building opened on campus in 2019, with state-of-the-art teaching facilities for our health science students. The campus includes a fitness centre, extensive landscaped grounds and close proximity to beaches and the growing regional centre of Coffs Harbour.

The University's National Marine Science Centre is located in nearby Charlesworth Bay.

Explore the Southern Cross campuses.

Search Institutions

Charles Darwin University (CDU)
University

Southern Cross University (SCU)
University

Search Institutions

Charles Darwin University (CDU)University

Southern Cross University (SCU)University

Charles Darwin University (CDU)
University

Southern Cross University (SCU)
University