Australia is an ideal choice for aspiring nurses who want to pursue their education and training in a world-class environment. Australia has a reputation for excellence in medical education, research, and innovation, with some of the top-ranked universities and healthcare facilities in the world. For example, the University of Sydney is ranked 13th in the world for nursing by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023. Australia also offers a range of nursing programs, from diplomas and bachelor’s degrees to master’s and doctoral degrees, that are accredited and recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). These programs prepare nurses for a rewarding career in the health and community services sector, with opportunities for specialization, career advancement, and lifelong learning. As such, the decision to study nursing in Australia can open up many doors for graduates, both nationally and internationally.
Australia has a high demand for nurses, especially in rural and remote areas, as well as in aged care, mental health, critical care, and other specialties. According to the Australian Government, the number of nurses is projected to grow by 15.1% from 2019 to 2024, creating more than 51,000 new jobs. Nurses in Australia also enjoy competitive salaries, flexible working conditions, and a supportive professional network. Studying nursing also exposes students to diverse and multicultural perspectives, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities of providing health care in rural and remote areas, as well as in Indigenous communities. There isn’t a better time to study nursing in Australia than now. In this article, we will look at some of the best universities in Australia, offering nursing degrees.
Overview of Nursing in Australia
| No. of Programs | 50+ |
| No. of Universities | 20+ |
| Degrees Offered | Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing |
| Duration of Study | 2-3 years (Bachelors); 1-2 years (Masters) |
| Tuition Fees | 35,000-40,000 AUD |
Why Study Nursing in Australia?
High-Quality Education: Australian universities and educational institutions are known for providing high-quality education. The nursing programs are designed to meet international standards, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and well-rounded education.
Global Recognition: Australian nursing degrees are recognized worldwide. Graduates of Australian nursing programs often find it easier to seek employment in other countries due to the global recognition of the Australian education system.
Diverse Clinical Experience: Australia provides a diverse clinical environment for nursing students. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and aged care facilities.
Innovative Teaching Methods: Australian universities often incorporate innovative teaching methods and advanced technology in their nursing programs. This ensures that students are well-prepared to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.
High-Quality Healthcare System: Australia has a robust healthcare system, and studying nursing in this environment allows students to learn from professionals who work in a well-established and respected system. It also provides insight into best practices in healthcare delivery.
Pathways to Immigration: Australia offers pathways for international students to stay and work after completing their nursing education. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows students to stay in Australia for a period after completing their studies, providing them with an opportunity to gain work experience.
Top Universities to Study Nursing in Australia
University of Tasmania
The University of Tasmania (UTAS) is a public research university that was established in 1890, making it the fourth oldest university in Australia. UTAS has more than 34,000 students, including around 5,000 international students from over 100 countries. UTAS is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities and the Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning and has links with 20 specialist research institutes and cooperative research centers. One of the programs that UTAS offers is nursing, which is part of the College of Health and Medicine. UTAS nursing programs are accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council and prepare graduates for a variety of roles in healthcare settings. These programs are delivered through a combination of online and on-campus learning, clinical placements, and simulation labs. UTAS nursing programs also provide opportunities for students to participate in international exchange programs, research projects, and community engagement activities.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 2 years | 35,450 AUD |
| Master of Nursing | 1 year | 34,008 AUD |
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Griffith University
Griffith University is a public research university in South East Queensland, Australia, founded in 1971. It has five campuses across Gold Coast, Nathan, Logan, South Bank, and Mount Gravatt, and offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various disciplines. Griffith University has about 50,000 students enrolled from more than 130 countries and ranks among the top 2% of universities worldwide. Griffith University’s nursing programs are designed to prepare graduates for a rewarding career in nursing and health care. The programs combine extensive clinical experience with the key skills required to deliver excellent nursing care. Students can choose from a range of nursing degrees, such as Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, and Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing). Griffith University’s nursing students benefit from the experienced and highly-awarded teaching staff, the industry connections, and the cutting-edge research that informs the curriculum. Griffith University’s nursing programs also offer opportunities for students to undertake rural, remote, and overseas placements in areas of nursing practice that interest them.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 3 years | 38,000 AUD |
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Murdoch University
Murdoch University is a public university in Perth, Western Australia, with campuses also in Singapore and Dubai. It was established in 1973 and named after Sir Walter Murdoch, a prominent local author and philosopher. The university has more than 23,000 students and offers over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate courses in a range of disciplines and professions. Murdoch University is known for its research excellence and innovation, as well as its student satisfaction and employability. The university’s nursing program is ranked number one in Western Australia and Australia in terms of educational experience and student support, respectively. The nursing program prepares graduates for diverse and complex healthcare settings, with a focus on clinical skills, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 3 years | 35,400 AUD |
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Deakin University
Deakin University is a public university in Australia, established in 1974. It offers over 200 courses across five faculties, including arts, business, education, health, and engineering. Deakin University has a reputation for being innovative and visionary, forging new paths both locally and globally. It is ranked among the top 1% of universities in the world by QS World University Rankings, and among the top 50 young universities in the world by both QS and Times Higher Education. Deakin University has also achieved excellence in specific subject areas, such as sports science, nursing, and education. Deakin’s nursing program is developed in consultation with industry and places a strong focus on clinical practice and research. Deakin’s School of Nursing and Midwifery has one of the largest research portfolios of any Australian university, driven by an extensive partner network. Deakin offers a range of nursing courses, from undergraduate to postgraduate, as well as specializations in clinical nursing, critical care, emergency care, intensive care, and perioperative nursing. Deakin’s nursing graduates are highly sought after by employers and have excellent employment prospects.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 3 years | 39,800 AUD |
| Bachelor of Nursing / Bachelor of Midwifery | 4 years | 37,200 AUD |
| Master of Nursing | 1 year | 38,600 AUD |
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Monash University
Monash University is a public research university based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It was established in 1958 and is named after Sir John Monash, a prominent World War I general and engineer. It is the second oldest university in the state and has several campuses and research centers in Australia and abroad. Monash University is a member of the Group of Eight, a coalition of leading Australian research universities, and ranks among the top 50 universities in the world. Monash University has more than 86,000 students, including over 23,000 international students from more than 100 countries. Monash University is also known for its excellence in research, with more than 100 research centers and institutes, and 17 co-operative research centers. One of the faculties at Monash University is the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences, which is the largest health faculty in Australia. It comprises 10 schools, including the School of Nursing and Midwifery, which offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in nursing and midwifery, as well as research degrees and professional development programs. The School of Nursing and Midwifery has more than 2,600 students and is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research, as well as its strong partnerships with healthcare providers and communities.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 3 years | 38,800 AUD |
| Master of Nursing Practice | 2 years | 41,000 AUD |
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Admission Requirements to Study Nursing in Australia
Bachelor’s in Nursing:
- Completion of secondary education or its equivalent.
- Satisfactory completion of prerequisite subjects, often including mathematics, biology, chemistry, and English.
- IELTS (6.0-6.5)or TOEFL(79-90) test scores are commonly required.
- Some universities may require letters of recommendation or references attesting to your character and academic abilities.
- A personal statement or interview may be required to assess your motivation, commitment, and understanding of the nursing profession.
- Proof of good health and up-to-date immunizations may be required due to the practical nature of nursing programs.
Master’s in Nursing:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field from a recognized institution.
- A strong academic record, often with a minimum GPA requirement.
- Some programs may require a certain amount of professional nursing experience (e.g., a minimum of one to two years) as a registered nurse.
- Similar to bachelor’s programs, master’s programs require proficiency in English. IELTS (6.0-6.5)or TOEFL(79-90) test scores are commonly required.
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources may be required.
- An interview or a statement of purpose may be part of the application process to assess your goals, motivation, and suitability for the program.
- For international students, proof of registration as a nurse in their home countries is required.
Career Opportunities for Nursing Graduates in Australia
Nursing is a rewarding and diverse profession that offers many pathways and specializations. Nurses can work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, nursing homes, pharmacies, and ambulances, where they provide care and support to patients and their families. They can also pursue further education and training to become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse educators, or neonatal intensive care unit nurses, among others, who have more autonomy and responsibility in their roles. Nursing is a dynamic and challenging career that requires compassion, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
According to Indeed, the average salary for registered nurses in Australia is around 76,280 AUD per year. However, this may vary depending on the state, city, experience level, and qualifications of the nurse. For example, nurse practitioners can earn up to 123,501 AUD per year, while clinical nurse educators can earn up to 97,872 AUD per year. Additionally, nurses can benefit from paid annual leave, superannuation, and salary packaging options
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be a life-changing decision to study nursing in Australia. It can have a profound impact on one’s personal and professional development. Nursing is a rewarding and meaningful career choice that offers diverse opportunities in the health sector. Australia is one of the best places to pursue nursing education, as it has some of the top-ranking institutions that provide world-class training and research. Graduates of nursing programs in Australia are highly sought-after by employers, both nationally and internationally. Therefore, choosing to study nursing is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. To know more about studying nursing in Australia, contact our admission experts at OneApply. Book your free video call appointment now!
