Murdoch University, located in Perth, Western Australia, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among Australian universities. The academic year typically consists of two main semesters: Semester 1, running from late February to mid-June, and Semester 2, spanning from late July to mid-November. Additionally, Murdoch offers a Summer Term and Winter Term for intensive study options, allowing students to accelerate their degrees or catch up on coursework. This flexible structure accommodates diverse student needs, including those balancing work or seeking shorter, focused study periods. Key breaks align with Australian public holidays, such as the mid-year winter break in July and the end-of-year summer break from December to February.
The academic calendar at Murdoch University aligns closely with other Australian institutions, with semesters timed to coincide with national holidays like Australia Day in January and ANZAC Day in April, ensuring minimal disruption to teaching schedules. The inclusion of optional Summer and Winter Terms offers significant flexibility, particularly for international students who may wish to complete their studies faster or align their schedules with home country breaks. Additionally, the admissions timeline caters to both domestic and international applicants, with early deadlines ensuring sufficient time for visa applications and relocation planning. This structure reflects Murdoch’s commitment to accessibility and student-centered scheduling.