CDU is good enough to comfortably rank among the top 1000 universities globally.
Charles Darwin University is ranked #697 in the world, based on a composite of QS, Times, and Webometrics rankings. In Australia, CDU is ranked #31 out of 42 universities.
Charles Darwin University (CDU) is the only university based in the sparsely populated Northern Territory. Its home is in Darwin, but the university has facilities in regional areas. In addition to traditional degree courses, CDU supports online learning and vocational training.
Website: cdu.edu.au | Campuses: Darwin (Casuarina), Alice Springs, Palmerston, Katherine, Nhulunbuy [NT], Sydney [NSW]
CDU World Ranking
Global Ranking: 697
Charles Darwin University is ranked #697 in the world. It performs best with Times Higher Education, where it is ranked in the 351-400 band.
QS ranking: 625
Times Higher Education: 375
ARWU: Unranked
Webometrics: 937
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 31
CDU is ranked #31 in Australia out of 42 universities. The below-average ranking is normal for a smaller, regional university and is similar to CQUniversity and James Cook University in central and northern Queensland respectively.
Above: Australian Catholic University (28), UniSQ (29), CQUniversity (30)
Below: Southern Cross University (32), Victoria University (33), Bond University (34)
Is Charles Darwin University Good?
Charles Darwin University (CDU) is an important education institution. It is the only university based in the vast Northern Territory. Despite being of a relatively small size, CDU has a global research presence and is ranked among the 1,000 top universities in the world.
Crocodile research
Environmental science
Tranquil spaces on campus
Studying in Darwin brings with it a tropical climate, rich biodiversity, and proximity to iconic natural sites. The serene gardens at the Casuarina campus make a great setting to capture the Charles Darwin University experience. For those unable to study in Darwin, CDU offers flexible online learning options.
Satisfaction: 71.3%
Charles Darwin University reviews show mixed satisfaction levels, with 69.5% for bachelor degrees and 73.0% for postgraduate students. These ratings are below the national averages. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 13,011
Charles Darwin University had a total of 13,011 students in 2023, making it the 38th largest university in Australia.
- International students: 3,439 (26%)
- Postgraduate students: 3,851 (30%)
- Gender ratio: 65% Female : 35% Male
- On-campus students: 6,758 (52%)
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: 92%
The Charles Darwin University acceptance rate is 92%. Among students with an ATAR that qualifies for university, only 8% are unable to be admitted into their preferred degree.
Required ATAR: 54
It is very easy to get into CDU, with a minimum ATAR of 54 on average. At the time of publishing, the ATAR threshold was 50 for Arts and Bachelor of Business, and 62 for Science degrees.
Is Charles Darwin University Online?
Yes, Charles Darwin University (CDU) offers a range of online courses. Around 45% of the student population studies online. Popular fields of study at CDU Online include Health, Education, and Society and Culture. CDU is classified as an open university due to its significant online enrolment.