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CDU student Robyn Bennet
Undergraduate

Diploma of Health Science

Key details

Duration

1 year/s full-time
2 year/s part-time
1 year/s full-time

Intake

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

Locations

Casuarina campus, Online
Casuarina campus

Credit points required

80

Course code

YHSC01
SATAC codes
MyNextCourse

Overview

Launch your career in health. Our Diploma of Health Science provides you with a range of skills and knowledge applicable to the Australian health care system, including health promotion, communication skills and cultural safety in healthcare. Choose electives from the fields of allied health, chiropractic studies or health services management.

Professional recognition

You are eligible to apply for membership with the following professional associations: The Australian Health Promotion Association and the Public Health Association of Australia.

Credit transfers and advanced standing

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 is AUD $32,352.00. This equates to $ $4,044.00 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.

Engineering student Johanna Luck

Why study a health course at CDU?

As an increasingly in-demand industry, there's never been a better time to find a career in healthcare. Become a qualified health professional with CDU's wide range of courses and gain the skills and knowledge to make an impact on the wellbeing of your community. 

  • Five-star Australian university for graduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
  • Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you
  • Placements and research opportunities in the NT, across Australia, and around the world
  • Uniquely positioned to explore Indigenous health, tropical medicine and other issues of regional and national importance
Stephen Kho - Public Health Research

Why study a health course at CDU?

As an increasingly in-demand industry, there's never been a better time to find a career in healthcare. Become a qualified health professional with CDU's wide range of courses and gain the skills and knowledge to make an impact on the wellbeing of your community.

  • Five-star Australian university for graduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
  • Placements and research opportunities in the NT, across Australia, and around the world
  • Uniquely positioned to explore Indigenous and Asia-Pacific health, tropical medicine and other issues of international importance
Engineering student Johanna Luck

Why study a health course at CDU?

As an increasingly in-demand industry, there's never been a better time to find a career in healthcare. Become a qualified health professional with CDU's wide range of courses and gain the skills and knowledge to make an impact on the wellbeing of your community. 

  • Five-star Australian university for graduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
  • Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you
  • Placements and research opportunities in the NT, across Australia, and around the world
  • Uniquely positioned to explore Indigenous health, tropical medicine and other issues of regional and national importance
Stephen Kho - Public Health Research

Why study a health course at CDU?

As an increasingly in-demand industry, there's never been a better time to find a career in healthcare. Become a qualified health professional with CDU's wide range of courses and gain the skills and knowledge to make an impact on the wellbeing of your community.

  • Five-star Australian university for graduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
  • Placements and research opportunities in the NT, across Australia, and around the world
  • Uniquely positioned to explore Indigenous and Asia-Pacific health, tropical medicine and other issues of international importance

What will I study?

Our Diploma of Health Science comprises 80 credit points (8 units) and provides an entry pathway into the following courses: Bachelor of Health Science, Bachelor of Public Health, Bachelor of Health Service Management, and, Bachelor of Health Science/Masters of Occupational Therapy, Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Speech and Language Therapy and Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Nutrition.

Course structure


A candidate must successfully complete units totalling 80 credit points (cp) as detailed below. All units are valued at 10 credit points unless indicated.

Unit typeCredit PointsSpecific requirements
Core Units 
(3 units)
30cp Compulsory Core units totalling 30 credit points as detailed below.  

 HSC132 Introduction to Health Promotion 
 SWK102 Communication Skills  
 HSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021) 
 
Specialist Elective 
(5 units)
50cp

Specialist Elective Units totalling 50 credit points selected from the following specialist elective streams: 

 ALLIED HEALTH 
 HSC121 Australia's Healthcare System and Policies 
 SBI171 Anatomy and Physiology 1 
 SBI172 Anatomy and Physiology 2 
 HSC112  Basics of Epidemiology 
 MAN204 Project Management

 CHIROPRACTIC STUDIES   
 SBI171 Anatomy and Physiology 1 
 SBI172 Anatomy and Physiology 2 
 SBI190 Microbiology for Healthcare Professionals (replaces SBI182 from S2 2022 and SBI173 from 2021) 
 SPH141 Concepts of Physics 
 SBI150 Cellular Biology (replaces MLS245 Medical Biochemistry from 2021)

 HEALTH SERVICES MANAGEMENT  
 HSC121 Australia's Healthcare System and Policies 
 HSC133 Perspectives of Indigenous Health (replaces HSC203 from 2024) 
 HSC204 Chronic Conditions Management 
 MAN204 Project Management 
 SWK312 Social Research Methods

 80cpTotal Credit Points

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

Course Changes - 2021 
Please note the following course structure changes: 
HSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction has replaced HSC230 Cultural Safety in Health from 2021. Students have completed HSC230 do not need to complete HSC220. 
MLS245 Medical Biochemistry has been replaced by SBI150 Cellular Biology under the Chiropractic Studies specialisation.

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 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.
 

Legend:CO = Core UnitSE = Specialist Elective

ALLIED HEALTH STREAM

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
HSC132 Introduction to Health PromotionCOSWK102 Communication SkillsCO
HSC121 Australia's Healthcare System and PoliciesSEHSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021)CO
SBI171 Anatomy and Physiology 1SEHSC112 Basics of EpidemiologySE
MAN204 Project ManagementSESBI172 Anatomy and Physiology 2SE

CHIROPRACTIC STREAM

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
HSC132 Introduction to Health PromotionCOSWK102 Communication SkillsCO
HSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021)COSBI172 Anatomy and Physiology 2SE
SBI171 Anatomy and Physiology 1SESBI190 Microbiology for Healthcare Professionals (replaces SBI182 from S2 2022 and SBI173 from 2021)SE
SBI150 Cellular Biology (replaces MLS245 from 2021)SESPH141 Concepts of PhysicsSE

HEALTH SERVICES MANAGEMENT STREAM

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
HSC132 Introduction to Health PromotionCOSWK102 Communication SkillsCO
HSC121 Australia's Healthcare System and PoliciesSEHSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021)CO
MAN204 Project ManagementSEHSC133 Perspectives of Indigenous Health (replaces HSC203 from 2024)SE
SWK312 Social Research MethodsSEHSC204 Chronic Conditions ManagementSE

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 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.
 

Legend:CO = Core UnitSE = Specialist Elective

ALLIED HEALTH STREAM

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
  HSC132 Introduction to Health Promotion (External only)CO
  SWK102 Communication SkillsCO
  HSC112 Basics of EpidemiologySE
  SBI172 Anatomy and Physiology 1SE
Year 2
HSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021)CO  
HSC121 Australia's Healthcare System and PoliciesSE  
SBI171 Anatomy and Physiology 1SE  
MAN204 Project ManagementSE  

CHIROPRACTIC STREAM

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
  HSC132 Introduction to Health Promotion (External only)CO
  SWK102 Communication SkillsCO
  SBI190 Microbiology for Healthcare Professionals (replaces SBI182 from S2 2022 and SBI173 from 2021)SE
  SPH141 Concepts of PhysicsSE
Year 2
HSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021)CO  
SBI171 Anatomy and Physiology 1SE  
SBI172 Anatomy and Physiology 2SE  
SBI150 Cellular Biology (replaces MLS245 from 2021)SE  

HEALTH SERVICES MANAGEMENT STREAM

Semester 1Semester 2
Year 1
  HSC132 Introduction to Health Promotion (External only)CO
  SWK102 Communication SkillsCO
  HSC133 Perspectives of Indigenous Health (replaces HSC203 from 2024)  SE
  HSC204 Chronic Conditions ManagementSE
Year 2
HSC220 Society, culture and health: A sociological introduction (replaces HSC230 from 2021)CO  
HSC121 Australia's Healthcare System and PoliciesSE  
MAN204 Project ManagementSE  
SWK312 Social Research MethodsSE  

 

 

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.

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. International applicants will be required to supply evidence of this at the time of application.

The minimum English language requirement for this course is met by either undertaking previous education in 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 ModuleA 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<5<5
Median rank to receive an offer<5<5
Highest rank to receive an offer<5<5

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

I've had the unique opportunity to explore tropical and rural health, which I may not have had the exposure to had I studied elsewhere.

Katie

CDU student

Nursing student on campus with laptop

My advice for anyone who is considering studying a health or science degree at CDU is if you are thinking about it, just do it.

Nishat

CDU student

Nishat studying

I've had the unique opportunity to explore tropical and rural health, which I may not have had the exposure to had I studied elsewhere.

Katie

CDU student

Nursing student on campus with laptop

My advice for anyone who is considering studying a health or science degree at CDU is if you are thinking about it, just do it.

Nishat

CDU student

Nishat studying

Course details

Accreditation

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

Australian qualification framework

This course is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 5.

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)
12 .0
B. Vocational education and training (VET) study 16 .0
C. Work and life experience
(Admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories)
7 .0
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)

<5N/P
  • 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 35 .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
Diploma of Health Science
Faculty/College
Faculty of Health
Sector
HE
Area of study
Health, Allied Health Sciences

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 (CSP)
116251
Online (CSP)
116251
* CSP = Commonwealth supported place
FF = Full fee

CRICOS codes

Location
CRICOS Code
Casuarina campus
0101029

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