Master’s of Nursing in Australia: Top Universities, Course Fees, Eligibility, and Job Prospects

For a more advanced knowledge base in Nursing and better career prospects, many international students choose Australia as a leading destination to pursue a Master's degree in the field. Nursing courses in Australia generally last between 2 and 4 years, depending on the degree level being pursued. The average cost of pursuing the 2-year program at a recognised Australian university is approximately AUD 58,800. To study a Master's in Nursing in Australia, applicants generally need a relevant bachelor's degree, supporting documents, and proof of English language proficiency such as an IELTS score of 7.0 overall. The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is considered one of the top universities for a Master’s in Nursing in Australia, offering industry-focused programs and strong clinical training opportunities. Master’s in Nursing graduates in Australia can pursue roles such as Registered Nurse (RN) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), enjoying competitive salaries, excellent job security, and long-term career growth opportunities. 

Why Study a Master’s in Nursing in Australia?

For a more advanced knowledge base in Nursing and better career prospects, many international students choose Australia as a leading destination to pursue a Master's degree in the subject. Listed below are some popular reasons why international students choose to pursue a Master’s of Nursing in Australia: 

  • The potentially high-paying jobs in Nursing after completing a degree in the field from a top Australian university attract many students from around the world.

  • Professional Nursing degrees obtained in Australia hold worldwide recognition, thereby allowing international students to look for jobs even in their home country.

  • Courses offered at Australian universities are carefully designed to equip students with the necessary skills to function as full-fledged professional nurses in real-world work environments.

Nursing Courses in Australia for International Students

Nursing courses in Australia generally last between 2 and 4 years, depending on the degree level being pursued. A Master’s degree in Nursing can be an important stepping stone to career success, opening doors to attractive roles with high earning potential.

Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)

Doctor of Philosophy in Medicine, Nursing, and Medical Science

Doctor of Philosophy - Nursing

Master of Nursing

Master of Nursing Practice

Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner)

Master of Nursing Science

Master of Nursing Studies

Master of Advanced Nursing

Cost of Studying MSc in Nursing in Australia

The average cost of pursuing the 2-year program at a recognised Australian university is approximately AUD 58,800. The fee structure for the Master’s course in Nursing is likely to vary across Australian institutions based on their rankings, locations, and curricula. It is best to check with your applied university for an accurate estimate of MSc Nursing fees in Australia. 

Related source: https://study.unimelb.edu.au/find/courses/graduate/master-of-nursing-science/fees/#fees

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements to Study MSc in Nursing in Australia

To study a Master's in Nursing in Australia, applicants generally need a relevant Bachelor's degree, supporting documents, and proof of English language proficiency such as an IELTS score of 7.0 overall.  Some of the most commonly defined Master's in Nursing requirements for admission to Australian universities are as follows:

  • Minimum 60% at the undergraduate level or an equivalent score recognised by the applied university

  • A degree in health science or a related field of study is generally preferred

  • Tertiary-level unit in Human Biology is required from all applicants

  • SOP

  • Updated CV

  • Relevant work experience in a related field of work (at least 5 years)

  • IELTS Test Report Form overall 7.0 highly preferred

Related Source: https://www.ecu.edu.au/degrees/courses/master-of-nursing-graduate-entry

Top Universities / Colleges for Nursing Master’s in Australia

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is considered one of the top universities for a Master’s in Nursing in Australia, offering industry-focused programs and strong clinical training opportunities. Other leading institutions include Monash University and Griffith University for their high-quality nursing education and graduate employability. 

University 

QS World University Rankings 2026 for Nursing

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) 

=16

Monash University 

=19

The University of Sydney 

=19

The University of Melbourne 

29

Griffith University 

=30

University of Wollongong 

36

Deakin University 

=38

La Trobe University 

=42

Adelaide University 

=50

Flinders University 

=50

Related source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/nursing?countries=au 

Career Prospects in Australia after Pursuing Master’s in Nursing

Master’s in Nursing graduates in Australia can pursue roles such as Registered Nurse (RN) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), earn competitive salaries, gain excellent job security, and long-term career growth opportunities. 

Top Nursing Jobs in Australia

Average Annual Salary (Approx)

Registered Nurse (RN)

AUD 90,000

Clinical Nurse Specialist

AUD 123,353

Nurse Practitioner

AUD 135,005

Aged Care Nurse

AUD 97,257

Mental Health Nurse

AUD 93,376

Disclaimer: The figures are indicative only and may not present an accurate estimate of the salary drawn by a professional Nurse in Australia after completing an MS in Nursing.

Related sources: https://www.glassdoor.com.au/Salaries/registered-nurse-salary-SRCH_KO0,16.htm
https://au.indeed.com/career/clinical-nurse-specialist/salaries
https://au.indeed.com/career/nurse-practitioner/salaries
https://au.indeed.com/career/nurse/salaries
https://au.indeed.com/career/registered-mental-health-nurse/salaries?from=top_sb 

Student Essentials Services (SES) by IDP Education for Studying Abroad

For students planning to study abroad, managing finances and settling into a new country can be challenging. To make this journey easier, IDP Education offers a range of Student Essentials Services (SES) that provide practical support before and after departure. These services are designed to help students enjoy a smoother and more comfortable international study experience and include: 

  • Education loans

  • Money transfers

  • Student banking services

FAQs on Master’s in Nursing in Australia for Indian Students

1. Is an Australian Master’s degree valid in other countries?

Yes, degrees obtained from Australian universities are globally recognised, allowing students to work anywhere in the world upon graduation.

2. What exams are required to study MSc Nursing in Australia?

For international students, IELTS is the most commonly accepted test required by most Australian universities. A performance of 7.0 is generally accepted on the IELTS Test Report Form.

Related Source: https://study.unimelb.edu.au/find/courses/graduate/master-of-nursing-science/entry-requirements/

3. What kind of nurses are in demand in Australia?

Australia seeks professional nurses for the following roles in the industry:

  • Nurse Practitioner

  • Clinical Nurse Specialist

  • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

  • Pain Management Nurse

  • Director of Nursing

4. What is the duration of a Nursing Master's program in Australia?

The average duration of an MS in Nursing program in Australia is 2 years for full-time study. However, this is an average duration and the actual time taken may vary from one institution to another. 

Related Source: https://study.unimelb.edu.au/find/courses/graduate/master-of-nursing-science/

5. What specialisations are offered in Nursing MS courses in Australia?

Some of the popular specialisations chosen by Nursing students pursuing a Master’s degree at an Australian university are:

  • Critical Care

  • Mental Health & Recovery

  • Indigenous Health & Nursing

  • Clinical Inquiry & Nursing Research

  • Nursing Science

Updated on 23 October 2026