Charles Darwin University
1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
The First Nations Health Pathway Program is a free, culturally responsive enabling course for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 17+ seeking to enter university health studies. Delivered through intensive on-campus blocks with comprehensive support including tutoring, mentoring, and cultural guidance, it equips students with academic skills and health knowledge to succeed in undergraduate health programs.
Applicants must be First Nations (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander) peoples aged 17 years or older with assumed knowledge equivalent to Year 10. No formal qualifications are required. The program is designed for those exploring health career options, committed to pursuing a health career, or already working in the sector seeking to advance their career. Financial assistance for travel and accommodation is available for students living outside the Greater Darwin area.
The program consists of 9 compulsory core units totalling 80 credit points, delivered across two stages. Stage 1 includes: Exploring Diverse Ways of Knowing and Doing, Communicating Diversity and Perspectives at University, Maths for Your Profession, and Bioscience. Stage 2 covers: Foundations of Health Communication and Promotion, Cultural Perspectives in Health and Wellbeing, Introduction to the Human Body A and B (5 credit points each), and Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology. Students engage in practical activities including simulations, structured role-plays, case-based and problem-based learning, and guest speaker sessions. The program is delivered through 6-week intensives with two-week on-campus blocks for each subject.
Charles Darwin University is ranked #5 in Australia for first-in-family study (GUG 2024) and demonstrates strong commitment to First Nations education and health outcomes. The Faculty of Health prioritises training and development of First Nations healthcare professionals to strengthen representation in the sector and ensure culturally safe care. CDU offers comprehensive support including dedicated tutors, First Nations mentors, and support officers, creating a family-like community environment. The university provides flexible study pathways and has established expertise in enabling courses and First Nations education.
Upon successful completion, graduates can apply for most CDU undergraduate health courses with up to 30 credit points transferred, significantly reducing study time. Career pathways include roles as nurses, allied health professionals, health promotion officers, community health workers, and other healthcare positions. The program supports Closing the Gap initiatives by developing First Nations healthcare professionals who can provide culturally safe, equitable care to their communities. Graduates contribute to strengthening First Nations representation in the health sector and improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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