Diploma of Nursing & Bachelor of Nursing

Nursing

Vocational Institutions and Universities in Australia produce some of the most highly-trained nurses in the world. With a focus on high-quality education and use of the latest techniques & technology, Australian trained nurses are in demand all over the world and the employment opportunities are endless.

Diploma of Nursing

Nursing is one of the most in-demand occupations in Australia and around the world.

Nursing ranks highly as a rewarding and meaningful career choice for many. If you enjoy taking care of others and would like a fulfilling role in the nursing industry, then the Diploma of Nursing is an ideal platform to launch your career aspirations. Learn the legal requirements, health assessments, care plans, communication, and safe practices associated with nursing and give your career a kick-start into a profession with excellent employment outcomes.

Bachelor of Nursing

The Bachelor of Nursing is the qualification that you need to work as a Registered Nurse in Australia. Registered Nurse is currently on the Department of Home Affairs Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List. The Bachelor of nursing runs for 3 years (Or 2 years after completing the Diploma of Nursing).

Nursing graduates in Australia are capable of delivering safe and competent practice. The Bachelor of Nursing emphasises nursing practice and theory to assist you to operate as part of a professional health care team. The course aims to develop professional health workers that have the necessary skills and knowledge to make safe and ethical decisions, and communicate flawlessly with patients and medical professionals.

Throughout your studies, you will develop skills through clinical placements across the health sector in numerous different departments, and be exposed to a range of clinical placements including aged care, acute and sub-acute, community, mental health, paediatric and high dependency nursing.

To practice safely in Australia, health practitioners, including nurses, must have strong English language skills. This includes being able to communicate effectively with patients and their relatives, collaborate with other healthcare professionals and keep clear and accurate health records.

The English language skills registration standard is one of the five core standards required under National Law. In preparation for registration, and required by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, all new applicants studying the Diploma of Nursing are to demonstrate English language, as well as literacy and numeracy skills prior to enrolment.

  1. Primary language pathway
    You can declare that you have attended and satisfactorily completed at least six years of primary, secondary (including at least two years between years 7 and 12), and full-time vocational and/or tertiary education taught and assessed in English in one of the recognised countries. Recognised Countries are: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, United Kingdom and United States of America.
  2. English language test pathway
    Where English is not your primary language, you must complete section 2 of the declaration and provide evidence of a formal English language test result. Students must demonstrate they have achieved the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) minimum requirements as specified in the English language skills.
    The assessment must have been completed less than 2 years ago.
    Formal English language tests are listed below, with their required outcomes to support enrolment*-
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – a minimum score of 7.0 overall and in each of the four (4) components
  • Occupational English Test (OET) – a minimum score of ‘B’ in each of the four (4) components
  • Pearson’s Test of English (PTE) – a minimum score of 65 in each of the four (4) communicative skills
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language / Internet-based test (TOEFL-iBT) – a minimum score of 94 overall with a minimum score in each section:

– 24 for listening
– 24 for reading
– 27 for writing
– 23 for speaking

Other entry requirements

Satisfactory completion of Year 12/matriculation or the overseas equivalent, with passes in all subjects including Mathematics.
Students must be 18 years or older at the time of course commencement
Prior to undertaking clinical placement, students must complete a National Police Records Check, a Police Records Check from their overseas country of residence (English translation), a Working with Children Check in Australia, and be prepared to declare their health and immunisation status
Students will be registered by Holmesglen with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Studying a Diploma of Nursing and a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia can lead to rewarding career opportunities in the healthcare field. Here is a short summary of the outcomes you can expect from each program:

Diploma of Nursing:

  • It provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as an enrolled nurse (EN) under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN).
  • Upon completion of the diploma, graduates can seek employment in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, aged care facilities, community health centers, and clinics.
  • Enrolled nurses play a crucial role in providing direct patient care, administering medication, assisting with procedures, and monitoring patients’ well-being.
  • Although enrolled nurses work under the supervision of registered nurses, they still have opportunities for career advancement and further education, such as bridging programs to become a registered nurse.

Bachelor of Nursing:

  • The Bachelor of Nursing prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs).
  • This program offers a broader and more in-depth understanding of nursing theory, research, and clinical practice compared to a diploma.
  • Graduates with a Bachelor of Nursing degree can work as registered nurses in a wide range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health centers, clinics, research institutions, and public health organizations.
  • Registered nurses have a higher level of autonomy and responsibility in providing patient care, coordinating and leading healthcare teams, and making critical decisions regarding patient treatment.
  • A Bachelor of Nursing degree also opens up opportunities for specialization or advanced practice nursing, such as becoming a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse researcher, or nurse manager.

In summary, while a Diploma of Nursing can provide a quicker entry into the nursing profession as an enrolled nurse, a Bachelor of Nursing offers a more comprehensive education and broader career prospects as a registered nurse. The choice between the two depends on your career goals, personal circumstances, and desired level of responsibility in the nursing field.

Course Details

Starting Price

$15 000 - $20 000

Duration

Location

Adelaide, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sunshine Coast, Sydney, Tasmania

Intake

February and July

Related Courses

Steps to Studying in Aus

Here are the steps you need to take before receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.

1

Get in Touch

You can give us a call, send an email or enquire online using the form down below.

2

Set Study Goals

One of our consultants will reply to any questions that you may have and assist in determining your overall study goals whilst in Australia.
3

Find a Study Path

Our consultants will then talk students through a range of study options that best suit your needs and develop a study path.
4

Enrol to a School

Once a specific education provider has been chosen, your consultant will then help students complete their school application and assist throughout the entire enrolling process.
5

Apply for Student Visa

Once your enrollment has been confirmed, our qualified migration agents will assist in applying for your student visa.

Temporary Graduate Visa

If undertaking study in Australia for a minimum of 2 years you may qualify for the Temporary Skilled Graduate Visa. This visa allows the holder 1.5 years of unlimited work rights in Australia. Many graduates use this time to build up experience in their field or find an employer that is willing to sponsor their visa.

If you have applied for the Temporary Graduate Visa you may also be eligible to apply for the Job Ready Program. The Job Ready Program is run through TRA and allows graduates in certain disciplines to have their skills assessed for skilled migration purposes. It is a way for people with no experience to have their skills assessed. Once the student receives a positive skills assessment they may be eligible to apply for permanent work visas such as State Sponsored and General Skilled Migration Visas.

Note: It is never recommended to engage in studies for the sole purpose of trying to gain a visa to Australia. Speak to us and we can find a course that matches your long-term career goals.

Graduate Visa - Pathway To Aus

Graduate Visa

The Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows recent university graduates and certain vocational graduates the chance to remain in Australia and work after their studies have finished.

Pathway to Aus

Why Use Pathway to Aus?

Pathway to Aus has assisted thousands of student’s study or migrate to Australia. We are here to support you throughout your journey and make the transition as easy and smooth as possible. Our experienced team of Education and Migration agents are ready to work with you to help you achieve your education and migration goals.

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Interviews with Our Students

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Frequently Asked Questions

In case you don't find an answer to your question, feel free to consult with one of our agents.

What are the requirements to study nursing in Australia?

To study nursing in Australia, you must meet academic and English language proficiency requirements.

  • A Bachelor of Nursing requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • For a Diploma of Nursing, relevant qualifications may vary by institution.
  • English proficiency tests such as IELTS or PTE are needed, with specific scores depending on the level of the nursing course. It’s essential to check with the Australian nursing school for detailed requirements.

For those looking to pursue a career in nursing, Australia offers a wide range of courses, including Bachelor of Nursing and Diploma of Nursing.

Entry requirements can vary, but generally, for a Bachelor’s degree, you would need to have completed secondary education with good grades in sciences, and for a Diploma, you might need to have completed certain prerequisite subjects or vocational education training. English language proficiency is crucial, and the IELTS requirement for a nursing diploma in Australia in 2023 typically stands at a minimum score of 7.0. It’s also worth noting that there are pathways for permanent residency (PR) for nursing graduates, which require additional qualifications and registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. For international students, there are options for more affordable courses and various campuses across cities like Brisbane, Adelaide, and Melbourne.

What are the requirements to study nursing in Australia? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

How long does it take to complete a nursing course in Australia?

A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia typically takes 3 years of full-time study, while a Diploma of Nursing usually takes 18 months to 2 years. The duration may vary with part-time study options or accelerated programs.

Completing a nursing course in Australia varies depending on the type of qualification. A Bachelor of Nursing program usually requires three years of full-time study, which is the case in major cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. For those pursuing a Diploma of Nursing, the course length can range from 18 months to 2 years of full-time study. Some institutions offer accelerated courses or part-time study options, which can extend the duration. Veterinary nursing and vet nursing courses may also have different durations. Prospective students should consider their study nursing in Australia pathway when planning their education timeline.

How long does it take to complete a nursing course in Australia? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

Can international students work in Australia while studying nursing?

Yes, international students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This applies to students holding a valid student visa.

International students enrolled in nursing courses in Australia are permitted to work part-time for up to 40 hours every two weeks during the academic semester and full-time during holidays under a valid student visa. This offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and support living expenses. Conditions may vary, so checking the latest visa regulations and work rights is important. Institutions across cities such as Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide provide support services to help international students navigate these opportunities.

Can international students work in Australia while studying nursing? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

What are the steps to work as a nurse in Australia for international students?

International students must complete a nursing qualification, such as the Diploma of Nursing or the Bachelor of Nursing, and demonstrate English language proficiency. They must then register with AHPRA and pass a skill assessment with ANMAC to work as a nurse in Australia.

For international students aiming to work as nurses in Australia, the process begins with obtaining a relevant nursing qualification. A Diploma of Nursing takes 1.5 years and leads to the role of an enrolled nurse, while a Bachelor of Nursing takes 3 years and is required to work as a registered nurse. English language proficiency is crucial, with a minimum IELTS score of 7 in each band usually required. Upon completing their course, students must register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and pass a skill assessment with the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC). This process can take 3-5 months post-graduation. If pursuing a diploma, students cannot apply for a Graduate Work Visa directly and may need to consider other visas such as a Student Visa, Training Visa, or Partner Visa. Once the skill assessment is passed, nurses can apply for visas such as the State Nominated (Subclass 190) or Skilled Regional (Subclass 491) Visa, depending on state requirements and eligibility.

What are the steps to work as a nurse in Australia for international students? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

What are the career prospects after completing a nursing course in Australia?

After completing a nursing course in Australia, graduates have various career opportunities. Diploma holders can work as enrolled nurses, and Bachelor’s degree holders can become registered nurses, with both having pathways to permanent residency in Australia.

Graduates of nursing courses in Australia are highly sought after due to the country’s rigorous healthcare education standards. Those completing a Diploma of Nursing can look forward to becoming enrolled nurses, possibly working in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, community health centers, and aged care facilities. Graduates with a Bachelor of Nursing are qualified to become registered nurses. This opens up a broader range of opportunities, including specialization in emergency, mental health, pediatrics, and intensive care nursing. Registered nursing is listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List, which may lead to permanent residency options for international graduates. In addition, nursing qualifications from Australia are recognized globally, thus providing opportunities for international career prospects.

What are the career prospects after completing a nursing course in Australia? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

What are the typical costs for nursing courses in Australia for international students?

The cost of nursing courses in Australia varies. Diploma courses may range from AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 per year, while Bachelor’s degrees can cost between AUD 20,000 to AUD 35,000 per year.

These figures are just a starting point, as actual costs depend on the institution and the specific program. Additionally, students should account for living expenses, textbooks, uniforms, and other educational materials when budgeting for their studies. Feel free to contact our agents for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding tuition and associated costs.

What are the typical costs for nursing courses in Australia for international students? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

Are there any scholarships available for international students studying nursing in Australia?

Yes, scholarships are available for international nursing students in Australia through universities, government bodies, and private organizations.

These scholarships range in value and criteria, with some based on academic merit, financial need, or specific research interests. They are designed to assist with tuition fees and sometimes living expenses. It’s advisable for students to start their scholarship search early and to apply for multiple opportunities.

For the most comprehensive information, feel free to reach out to us.

Are there any scholarships available for international students studying nursing in Australia? was last modified: January 8th, 2024 by PTA

What is the pathway to permanent residency (PR) for nurses in Australia?

The pathway to permanent residency (PR) for nurses in Australia involves several key steps, beginning with obtaining a nursing qualification recognized by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

  1. Obtain a Recognized Nursing Qualification: The first step is to complete a nursing course in Australia, such as a Diploma of Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing, or a Master’s degree in Nursing. These qualifications must be recognized by AHPRA.
  2. Register with AHPRA: Upon completing your nursing qualification, you need to register with AHPRA as a nurse. This registration is crucial as it certifies you as a qualified nurse eligible to practice in Australia.
  3. Gain Work Experience: After registration, gaining work experience in Australia is beneficial. This experience not only enhances your skills but also contributes positively to your visa application for PR.
  4. English Language Proficiency: Ensuring you meet the English language requirements is vital. This usually means having a valid IELTS score as required by AHPRA and the Department of Home Affairs for visa purposes.
  5. Skill Assessment: Nurses need to undergo a skill assessment by a relevant assessing authority. This assessment verifies that your skills and qualifications align with Australian standards.
  6. Apply for a Skilled Visa: With your skills assessment, work experience, and English proficiency, you can apply for a skilled visa. Common options for nurses include the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), State Nominated Visa (subclass 190), or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 491).
  7. Expression of Interest (EOI): You will need to submit an EOI through the SkillSelect online service. This step is crucial for being invited to apply for a skilled visa.
  8. Receive an Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is successful, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for a visa. This is your opportunity to formally apply for PR in Australia.
  9. Visa Application and Approval: After receiving an invitation, you can apply for the visa. This application will include providing extensive documentation and meeting health and character requirements.
  10. Permanent Residency Grant: Once your application is approved, you will be granted permanent residency in Australia. This status allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.

It’s important to note that the rules and requirements for PR can change, so staying updated with the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs and AHPRA is crucial.

What is the pathway to permanent residency (PR) for nurses in Australia? was last modified: January 18th, 2024 by PTA

What are the IELTS Requirements for International Students Enrolling in a Diploma of Nursing in Australia in 2024?

For international students enrolling in a Diploma of Nursing in Australia in 2024, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) requirements are a crucial aspect of the admission process. Typically, these programs require a minimum overall IELTS band score. As of 2024, most nursing courses require a score of at least 7.0 overall, with no individual band (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) less than 7.0.

This standard is set to ensure that students have a proficient level of English, which is essential for both academic success in nursing studies and effective communication in healthcare settings. Nursing is a profession that demands a high level of English proficiency due to the need for clear and accurate communication with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals.

However, it’s important to note that specific IELTS requirements can vary between different educational institutions. Some may have slightly higher or lower requirements, and others might accept alternative English language tests such as TOEFL or PTE Academic. Therefore, it’s highly recommended that students check the specific requirements of each institution they are considering.

In addition to meeting the IELTS requirements, international students should also be aware that successful completion of an English language test is just one component of the admission criteria. Other requirements may include academic qualifications, work experience, and other specific criteria set by the nursing program or the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

For the latest updates and personalized assistance, international students we encourage you to contact our team of registered agents.

What are the IELTS Requirements for International Students Enrolling in a Diploma of Nursing in Australia in 2024? was last modified: January 18th, 2024 by PTA

How Can International Students Find the Cheapest Nursing Courses in Australia?

To find the cheapest nursing courses in Australia, international students can employ several strategies:

1. Investigate a variety of universities and colleges to compare tuition fees. Costs can vary based on the type of institution and location.
2. Opt for institutions in smaller cities or regional areas where the cost of living and tuition fees might be lower.
3. Regularly check for scholarships and financial aid options offered by Australian institutions which can significantly reduce study costs.
4. Providers like TAFE institutes often offer more affordable nursing courses such as the Diploma of Nursing.
5. Keep an eye on changes in tuition fees and scholarship opportunities.

If the process seems overwhelming, we’d be happy to assist you. We can provide personalized guidance and help streamline the search for affordable nursing courses in Australia.

How Can International Students Find the Cheapest Nursing Courses in Australia? was last modified: January 18th, 2024 by PTA

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