CDU graduates among Australia’s highest paid, national survey reveals

Charles Darwin University (CDU) graduates are earning more than the average Australian university graduate, according to the latest Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey.

CDU ranked in the top six Australian universities for median undergraduate salaries, rising from 11th place in 2024.

CDU also performed strongly in graduate employment outcomes, recording a full-time employment rate 9.2 percentage points higher than the all-university average of 75.6 per cent. The University’s overall employment rate also increased, rising from 89.3 per cent in 2024 to 90.7 per cent in 2025. 

The Graduate Outcomes Survey is completed by domestic higher education students four to six months after completing their studies. The survey measures short-term employment outcomes, including employment rates, salary outcomes, further study, how graduates are using the skills gained through their studies and overall satisfaction. 

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said the results demonstrated that students could access a world-class university education in the Northern Territory while building rewarding careers close to home.

“These results reflect the strength of CDU's approach to education, combining academic rigour with practical learning and strong industry connections to prepare graduates for successful careers,” Professor Coulson said.

 The Northern Territory offers graduates exceptional opportunities to build practical experience and the chance to progress quickly in their careers.

"Our strong partnerships with industry are central to these outcomes, creating valuable placement, training and employment opportunities that help students build professional networks and transition successfully into the workforce."

CDU graduates across a range of study areas have secured rewarding full-time employment following their studies. 

Speech pathology graduate Brooke Henry said her CDU degree led to multiple job offers and prepared her for meaningful work across the Territory.

“As a Territorian, I really valued the way my degree included local and cultural learning to prepare students for working across the NT and Australia,” Ms Henry said.

“Completing placements in the Territory provides such strong employment pathways.

“I was offered many opportunities before I had even finished my degree.

“Since graduating, my degree has given me some unreal opportunities working with First Nations communities across the NT. Flying out to work is hard to beat.”