Nursing courses in Australia

Want to study a Nursing course in Australia, but don’t know where to start?

There are many options for you, and the best choice will depend on your goals, study level, and preferences. 

For example, if you’re saving money for now, but want to gain a qualification to work, then you might want to start with a TAFE Diploma in Nursing.

If you’re a registered nurse now, but want to specialise, you can also study a Master’s degree.

Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through your course options. We’ll also provide expert tips to help you figure out the best course choice or study-to-PR pathway.

Nursing is one of the top courses for international students in Australia. And here’s why: 

Employment outcomes

• Health Care & Social Assistance is projected to add +585,100 jobs in Australia until 2034, the highest of any industry.

• Australia is expected to be short of 23,000 nurses by 2030, which means strong demand for graduates.

Competitive salaries

• The Healthcare sector had a +3.9% increase in wages in the last year.

PR opportunities

• 10,860 visas are sponsored in 2025 by Health Care & Social Assistance (15.9% of all skilled visas).

• Healthcare is the largest sponsor of skilled migrants (17.9% of all primary visas granted).

• 147,400 permanent migrants are employed as Health Professionals (7.7%) in 2023. 

Many nursing roles are in the Core Skills Occupation List

• There are 17 nursing roles in the CSOL (2025). 

• Most healthcare roles are prioritised for state nomination. For example, Western Australia and Victoria specifically list health-related roles as priority occupations needed by their states. 

It’s no wonder that Health is also one of the broad fields of study with the most international enrollees in Australia.

• There are 19,830 international students enrolled in Health courses in 2025 (YTD July).

So, are you now more convinced to study nursing in Australia?

Continue reading, and we’ll get you prepared with everything you need to know about this field of study.

There are different nursing courses in Australia under the following educational levels: diploma programs, undergraduate programs, and postgraduate programs. We list them below.

Diploma Programs

Diploma programs are entry-level qualifications that prepare you to become an enrolled nurse. These are shorter (usually 1.5–2 years) and focus on practical skills.

Diploma of Nursing / Certificate IV in Nursing

The Diploma of Nursing (sometimes called Certificate IV) is the entry-level qualification that prepares you to work as an Enrolled Nurse in Australia. It covers the essential clinical skills, knowledge, and competencies you need to provide safe and effective care.

Course duration: Typically 18–24 months.

Who is this for?

• International students seeking an entry-level qualification for nursing.

• Students wanting to become Enrolled Nurses.

Course outcomes

After this course, graduates can: 

• Apply for registration as an Enrolled Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) via AHPRA. 

• Be qualified to progress to a Bachelor of Nursing.

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor’s degrees qualify you to be a registered nurse. These typically take 3 years and combine theory with clinical placements.

Bachelor of Nursing

The Bachelor of Nursing is the standard degree for those who want to qualify as a Registered Nurse in Australia. 

Course duration: Usually 3 years full-time.

Who is this for?

• Students who want to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse in Australia.

Course outcomes

After this course, graduates can: 

• Apply for registration as a Registered Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). 

• Specialise and study a postgraduate degree. 

• Work as a nurse in hospitals, aged care, community health, and other healthcare environments.

Postgraduate Programs

Advanced study options (graduate certificates, diplomas, or master’s degrees) are for registered nurses who want to specialise in areas like critical care, mental health, or leadership.

Master of Nursing

The Master of Nursing is for already registered nurses who want to take the next step in their career. It provides advanced skills in leadership, clinical practice, education, or research, and is designed to help nurses move into specialist or management roles.

Course duration: Typically 1.5–2 years full-time.

Who is this for?

• Registered Nurses in Australia or overseas who want to specialise or progress into advanced nursing practice, education, or research.

• Nurses who already hold a Bachelor of Nursing overseas and may need to complete a Master of Nursing in Australia to meet local qualification standards

Course outcomes

• Graduates can expand their scope of practice, pursue leadership or academic roles, and strengthen their professional profile. It can also serve as a stepping stone to doctoral study.

Master of Nursing Science/Nursing Practice

The Master of Nursing Science is designed for people who have completed a degree in another discipline and now want to move into nursing. It combines theoretical knowledge with clinical placements to prepare students for professional registration as a Registered Nurse.

• Course duration: Usually 2 years full-time.

Who is this for?

• Students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree who want to transition into a nursing career.

Course outcomes

• Graduates can apply for registration as a Registered Nurse with the NMBA via AHPRA. This qualification allows you to enter the nursing profession directly, even if your first degree was in a different field.

Discover more Master’s  of Nursing programs for international students in Australia

Know the entry requirements for Master’s of Nursing programs 

Full list of Nursing & Midwifery courses here

It depends on the level of nursing you study. 

Some universities also offer accelerated or graduate-entry pathways if you already have a related degree.

Entry requirements for nursing courses in Australia vary depending on the study level and the university you choose. Some universities may also set higher academic or English language requirements than the minimum standards. You can check with us about the specific requirements of your chosen course before applying.

Academic Requirements

• Completion of secondary education (for Diploma of Nursing and Bachelor of Nursing)

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field (for Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate in Nursing)

• A Bachelor of Nursing, often with Honours or equivalent research component (for Master of Nursing – especially research-focused programs)

• A Master’s degree or strong academic and research background (for PhD in Nursing)

English Proficiency 

Most universities require an IELTS overall score of 7.0 with no band less than 7.0 for nursing courses. 

How to choose an English language test for entry to a nursing course

Here’s something many students don’t realise: The English score you need to get into a Bachelor of Nursing is the same score you’ll later need for nursing registration in Australia. 

For postgraduate nursing, some courses may ask for slightly less in some bands, but you’ll still need IELTS 7.0 in all areas to register as a nurse.

That means achieving the required score now can save you time, money, and effort later. In fact, you may even use the same result for your skills assessment, as long as your test is still valid.

When the stakes are this high, it’s important to choose a test that sets you up for success.

With IELTS, you’ll benefit from:

• The widest range of free preparation materials compared to any other test provider.

• One Skill Retake, which lets you re-sit just one section instead of the full test.

• Consistent test formats. While other tests change their formats and required scores, IELTS remain consistent, so you won’t have to re-familiarise yourself or re-do your preparation whenever you need to take it again anywhere in your visa journey. 

Book IELTS here

The cost of nursing courses in Australia can range from AUD20,000 (for diplomas) to AUD50,000 (for bachelor’s and postgraduate courses). 

The total course fees vary per institution, course level, and the location of your chosen university. Still, we compiled a list of the tuition fees you can expect from some of the top universities in Australia.

How much is the tuition fee for the Diploma of Nursing in Australia?  

It costs AUD$29,000 - AUD$36,000 a year to study a Diploma of Nursing for international students in Australia. This is based on average tuition fees from most TAFE institutions. 

Still, your total course fees will vary per university, and whether you are eligible for international scholarships. 

How much does it cost to study a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia? 

It costs AUD$34,000 - AUD$46,000 a year to study a Bachelor of Nursing for international students in Australia. This is based on average tuition fees from most universities. 

Still, your total course fees will vary per university, and whether you are eligible for international scholarships. 

How much does it cost to study a Master of Nursing in Australia?

It costs AUD$46,400 - AUD$54,900 a year to study a Master of Nursing for international students. This is based on average tuition fees from most universities. 

Still, your total course fees will vary per university, and whether you are eligible for international scholarships. 

Online nursing courses fees in Australia 

Full-time online nursing course fees in Australia range from $7,750 to $14,700 AUD.

However, please note that you cannot study a full online course on an Australian Student (subclass 500) visa. At least two-thirds (⅔) of your total enrolled units must be done in person. 

Ask about your exact course fees

Find international scholarships

Nurse Researchers
Nurse researchers work in hospitals, clinics, and labs. They design and run studies, collect data, and share results that help save lives. Their work supports doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals.

Registered Nurses (Mental Health)
Mental health nurses care for people with mental health conditions. They can assess, diagnose, and create treatment plans. You’ll find them in public hospitals, private clinics, and community health centres.

Registered Midwives
Midwives support women through pregnancy, birth, and the weeks after. They give care and advice, help in emergencies, and provide newborn care.

Registered Nurses (Anaesthetic)
Anaesthetic nurses prepare patients before surgery, explain anaesthesia, and monitor them during operations. They also support recovery after surgery. They work closely with surgeons, doctors, and dentists to make sure anaesthesia is given safely.

Registered Nurses (Paediatrics)
Paediatric nurses care for babies, children, and young people. They work in hospitals, intensive care, and special care units. They give treatments and medications and monitor how children respond.

Registered Nurses (Surgical)
Surgical nurses look after patients before and after surgery. They support recovery and make sure patients receive the care they need.

Registered Nurses (Disability and Rehabilitation)
Rehabilitation nurses help patients regain independence after illness or injury. They also support people living with disabilities to improve their quality of life.

Registered nurses in Australia earn an average salary of $85,000 to $100,000 per year in 2025. 

However, salary rates vary according to your experience, your role, and where you work. 

Specialised nurses, like those in mental health or anaesthetics, often earn more. Location also plays a part, with some states or remote areas offering higher pay.

Nurse salaries per state in Australia (as of 2025)

You'll be happy to know that the following occupations are in Australia's skilled occupation list, and thus provide an avenue you could explore to gain permanent residency in Australia. 

After completing your course and gaining AHPRA registration, you can work as a nurse and start becoming eligible for skilled or employer-sponsored visas.

Direct PR visas for nurses:

• Skilled Independent Visa (189): Points-tested. Requires your nursing role to be on the MLTSSL. No state or employer sponsorship needed.

• Skilled Nominated Visa (190): Requires state or territory nomination. Your role must be on the state occupation list.

• Employer Nomination Scheme (186): Employer-sponsored PR visa. Your role must be on the MLTSSL, and you must meet specific requirements under any of the three 186 visa streams.

Pathway visas that lead to PR:

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (491): A 5-year visa requiring nomination by a regional area. Your nursing role must be on the regional occupation list. After 3 years of living and working regionally and meeting income requirements, you can apply for the Skilled Regional Permanent Visa (191).

• Skills in Demand Visa (482): Employer-sponsored temporary visa. If your nursing role is on the MLTSSL, you may transition to PR through the 186 Employer Nomination Scheme after gaining work experience.

The Skilled Occupation List is updated regularly, and nursing roles can move on or off depending on demand. 

Before you lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI), it’s important to check that your role is still on the list.

Visa and migration policies also change often. Speaking with a migration expert can help you understand the latest rules and how they apply to your situation, so you can plan your pathway with confidence.

Need a guide through the Skilled Occupation List?

If you don’t speak fluent SOL yet, or the different lists—like the STSOL, ROL, and MLTSSL—still confuse you, this in-depth guide on the SOL may help. 

Stream names:

• MLTSSL – Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List

• CSOL - Core Skills Occupations List

• STSOL – Short-Term Skilled Occupation List

• ROL - Regional Occupation List

The Australian Government continues to encourage skilled workers, including nurses, to live and work in regional areas. 

If you choose to study in a regional location, you could enjoy a few important benefits:

• Extra points: Completing your course in a regional area gives you 5 additional points towards your skilled migration application.

• Priority processing: Regional visas are often processed faster than metropolitan applications.

• More pathways: Regional visas, such as the 491, can lead to permanent residency after meeting the work and income requirements.

Some areas also operate under a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA). This is a special arrangement between the government and local regions to attract skilled workers. Under a DAMA, employers can sponsor nurses under more flexible conditions, such as concessions on the minimum income requirement (TSMIT).

If you have questions about studying nursing in Australia or in a regional area, contact us to arrange a free appointment.

Let us guide you in finding the right university and course for you. And when you’re ready to apply, we can help you check and meet your entry requirements, including your IELTS score. 

Book a free consultation with our education counsellors 

How do I enroll in Bachelor of Nursing Course in Australia?

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

An International student applicant must have the following:

• proof of English language proficiency

• valid student visa and a valid passport

• academic transcripts and qualifications from the home country

• students may provide work experience statement, reference letter from universities or professional registration if applicable.

What qualifications do I need to complete to be an Enrolled Nurse?

All course leading to the national registration as a nurse or midwife is approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Complete a diploma qualification to enter the workforce as an Enrolled Nurse. The list of accredited programs is available from the NMBA website.

I would like to work in Australia as a Nurse or midwife. 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.

Can I complete my Enrolled Nurse qualification part-time?

Please check with your training provider or the list of courses provided by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Most courses are generally delivered full-time, but a few training providers offer them part-time.

As an Enrolled Nurse, where can I find a job?

Jobs for Enrolled Nurses are available in the health system. In the private sector, most health services display vacancies within their service and clinical environments through their websites, under "Careers". In the public health sector, nursing jobs are advertised on the Health Jobs website

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, teamwork 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 with theirs.

If you’re interested in studying Nursing in Australia and need some guidance on choosing and applying for a course, don’t hesitate to submit your details or call IDP on 1800 664 700.

We can help you find the ideal course and best university, speak to us today – it’s free!

Source: Job Outlook, QS Top University Rankings and Department of Home Affairs