Nursing (healthcare) - courses, jobs and salaries

Why study nursing In Australia?

Australian universities are globally recognised for their courses in teaching nursing. Did you know that Australia has been identified as having 11 of the world’s top 50 institutions that teach nursing for 2019 by the QS World University Rankings.

Healthcare is one of Australia's fastest growing employment sectors and the demand for healthcare services will continue to increase, given Australia's aging population. Top healthcare job opportunities that are in demand are in nursing and midwifery. It's no surprise that nursing is highly sought after because it offers a stable and rewarding profession. Nurses experience a strong job satisfaction from the help they provide patients.

The fields of study in nursing are diverse with nurses helping patients through the more difficult times of their lives.  Skills needed are compassion, good communication, as well as the theoretical and medical practical knowledge. The benefit of studying nursing is that you can work in Australia and other parts of the world easily. 

Upon completing your degree in nursing, you can join the AHPRA, the professional body for nursing in Australia. The benefits of joining such an organisation are the opportunity to network with other professionals and job opportunities. Furthermore, you receive the recognition of the qualification in your field and can continuously develop your skills and knowledge. 

Nursing course fees

Fees are normally around $28,000 for a course in nursing and $41,000 for a double degree in nursing and midwifery. The major types of subjects in nursing are physiology, science, biology, anatomy, legal issues and principles of research.

Career opportunities

Registered nurses benefit from interesting work in a variety of fields including:

• Critical care
• Emergency
• Mental health
• Community
• Hospital healthcare
• Oncology nursing
• Paediatric nursing

As you progress in your studies and even start clinical placements, you’re likely to develop an idea on where you would like to develop your career.

If you’re an international student, studying and becoming a nurse can offer a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. Speak to an IDP Counsellor to know more about study and visa options.

Nursing salary expectations

The average salary for a nurse is $65,000 per annum, however, this can vary based on the location and employer. 

Nursing course options

Nursing course are generally at least 18 months to 3 years in length.  

• Nursing with UTS (University of Technology Sydney)

A Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Technology in Sydney is 3 years in duration. Subjects covered off are behavioural science, physical science, ethics and subjects related to modern nursing practise. 

Find out more about studying with UTS

• Nursing with Western Sydney University

Studying a Bachelor of Nursing at Western Sydney University equips you with the theoretical and practical knowledge to thrive in the area of nursing you choose to specialise in. In this degree, you will benefit from state of the art clinical stimulation technology to prepare you thoroughly for the workforce. Course duration is 3 years.

Find out more about studying with Western Sydney University

• Nursing with ACU (Australian Catholic University)

ACU is closely affiliated with hospitals which helps ensure their students benefit from rewarding clinical placements. At ACU, you could benefit from a work placement in a variety of fields, including; aged care, community, mental health, paediatrics or palliative care.

Find out more about studying with ACU

The next intake for these nursing courses is semester 1, 2020 (February).

Preparing for the workforce and interviews

Ensure you’re familiar with the key selection criteria in the advertised position. 

You would normally be asked some behavioural questions on the clinical scenarios, problem solving, how you deal with practical situations, team work and leadership. Recruiters would also be interested to know about your training and knowledge to ensure there's a good fit between you and the role.

It’s advised to research the type of organisation you will be joining and to check if your values are aligned to theirs.

If you’re interested in studying in Australia, and need some assistance, don’t hesitate to submit your details or call IDP on 1800 664 700.

We can help you find the ideal course and optimal university, and best of all, our services are free of charge.

FAQs :

1. How do I enrol in Bachelor of Nursing Course in Australia? 

Each university will have their own procedures and enrolment requirements, and this can show differentiation depending of the education provider.

An International student applicant must comply with;

• English language proficiency
• Valid student visa and valid passport
• Academic transcripts and qualifications from home country. 
• Students may provide work experience statement, reference letter from universities or professional registration if applicable. 

2. Can you apply for permanent residency in Australia after studying Nursing?

You can be a graduate of nursing student or can be a fresh out of high school from overseas, you will need to follow some steps to get a permanent residency in Australia. APHRA is the registered agency that can help you study 3 months of a bridging course or to register with to become a nurse after you graduate.  

If you have already studied nursing course overseas you will need to;

• Satisfy with English proficiency requirements 
• Register with APHRA, (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency)
• Hold or be eligible to obtain valid student visa to study
• Students who already registered with AHPRA will need to apply for skill assessment that delivered by ANMAC (Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council) 
• Express your interest to apply for permanent residency, 
• Ensure a migration agent helps you with the latest permanent residency application requirements

The conditions for applying for permanent residency change about twice a year, so best to keep an eye on the Australian Immigration website for changes.

3. Which universities provide midwifery course in Australia?

You can study specific midwifery courses in Australia, or as a double major with nursing. See state breakdown:

Victoria

• Monash University: Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Midwifery 
• Deakin College: Bachelor of Midwifery

South Australia

• Uni of South Australia: Bachelor of Midwifery
• Flinders University: Graduate certificate, diploma and bachelor of midwifery

Queensland

• University of Queensland: Bachelors of Midwifery

New South Wales

• Southern Cross University Sydney: Bachelors of Midwifery

Western Australia 

• Edith Cowen University: Bachelor of Science (Midwifery)

Australian territories to study midwifery 

Northern Territory:

• Charles Darwin University: Bachelor of Midwifery 

Australian Capital Territory: 

• University of Canberra: Bachelor of Midwifery

4. I would like to work in Australia as a Nurse or mid-wife. What do I need to do?

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) is responsible for determining the pathway for the registration of Nurses in Australia.  It’s likely you would need to undergo a bridging course to become registered in Australia.