Interstate students choose CDU for university

THE Territory’s popularity as a study destination with interstate students has jumped, new Charles Darwin University statistics have revealed

THE Territory’s popularity as a study destination with interstate students has jumped, new Charles Darwin University statistics have revealed.

A CDU spokesman said the university’s overall domestic applications had increased dramatically for the Class of 2020.

“Compared to the same time last year, applications have increased by more than 20 per cent,” he said.

“Applications are still open and we expect that this number will continue to rise.”

Only 30 per cent of applicants in 2021 were from the NT. CDU also reported dramatic growth in demand for its online courses from southern interstate applicants.

“Compared to the same time last year, CDU has seen a sharp increase – in some cases by more than 40 per cent – in applicants from Victoria, NSW, Queensland and WA, many of who are seeking the flexibility and convenience of studying online,” the spokesman said.

The spike in demand for online courses follows increased emphasis by universities on learning from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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In a similar vein, CDU reported that its fastest growing areas of study were health-related degrees.

“Compared to the same time last year, domestic applications have risen by more than 50 per cent in some health fields,” a spokesperson said. “Throughout COVID-19, health care careers have increased in prominence, and are considered recession-proof and highly valued by society.

“We have also seen a number of health professionals seeking postgraduate study options to upskill in niche areas.”

The university reported domestic applications for postgraduate programs in general had increased by a staggering 60 per cent.

Teaching was another area of study to receive a “notable increase in domestic applications” since the onset of COVID-19, the spokesperson said. “We continue to see solid interest in business, arts, Indigenous knowledges, law and environmental science degrees.

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“While not all applicants will receive offers, it’s promising to see Territorians and Australians in other states and territories investing in their education and career options.”

University offers come out today.