Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry)

The Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry) program at the University of South Australia is specifically designed for registered nurses and healthcare professionals seeking to upgrade, refresh, or transition into the nursing profession within Australia. This comprehensive program provides a pathway for qualified nurses from diverse backgrounds, including those who have previously practiced nursing but wish to re-enter the workforce after a career break or to meet the requirements for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The curriculum emphasizes contemporary nursing practices, healthcare principles, and evidence-based care, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to provide safe, effective, and holistic patient care across a variety of clinical settings.

Participants in the program will undertake a combination of academic coursework and practical clinical placements to develop their theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional competencies. The coursework covers core areas such as health assessment, pharmacology, community and acute care nursing, ethics and law in healthcare, and leadership. Practical placements are arranged in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, community health centers, and aged care facilities, facilitating real-world experience and integration into the current healthcare system.

The program is tailored to accommodate the needs of re-entry students by offering flexible delivery options, including part-time study, online learning components, and intensive workshops. This flexibility allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to apply for registration as a registered nurse (Division 1) with the NMBA, opening pathways to employment in diverse areas of nursing practice across Australia.

The Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry) program emphasizes not only technical skills but also critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and communication skills, empowering graduates to provide patient-centered care and adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. The University of South Australia’s commitment to quality education, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections ensures that graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Whether restarting your nursing career or expanding your professional scope, this program offers a robust route to re-entering the nursing profession with confidence and competence.

Upon completion of the Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Bridging and Reentry ) program students will be eligible to apply for Enrollment as a Registered Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.

• Internationally educated nurses: certified evidence of registration with the appropriate Nurse Registration Authority in particular country or place of dwelling
• AND bachelor degree in nursing commensurate with the quality of registered nurse preparation at Australia - minimum equivalence of Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 7
• AND minimum 2 years work experience with 12 months clinic (over the previous 24 months ) as a rn in country of practice, evidenced with an avowed employment statement dated in the previous a few months
• AND correspondence of approval from the Australian doctor Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) to tackle a NMBA approved bridging application. The referral must be current for the duration of the application. International students must meet with the English Language Requirements for Nurses or Midwives as given in the NMBA Registration Standard. Australian educated nurses: evidence of prior registration for a nurse using a naturopathic Registration Authority at Australia over the previous 10 years
• AND correspondence of approval from AHPRA with respect to NMBA to take on a NMBA approved visitation application. The referral must be current for the duration of the application.

The University of South Australia offers a variety of financing options for students enrolled in the Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry) program to facilitate access to higher education and support students throughout their studies. Domestic students may be eligible to apply for government subsidies and loans, such as HECS-HELP (Higher Education Loan Program), which allows students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning above a certain income threshold. This financial assistance significantly reduces the immediate financial burden and provides more accessible pathways into the nursing profession. In addition to government-supported schemes, students can explore UniSA’s scholarship opportunities, which are designed to recognize academic excellence, support equity groups, and provide financial assistance to those in need. These scholarships can range from partial fee waivers to full tuition coverage, and some are specific to nursing students or those undertaking bridging and re-entry programs.

Furthermore, there are flexible payment options and payment plans available to help students manage their tuition fees effectively over the duration of their studies. Students are encouraged to consult the university's Financial Services team for personalized advice and to understand the eligibility criteria for various financial support mechanisms. For international students, the program’s financing options are more limited, and they are generally responsible for full tuition fees upfront, though they may also access scholarship opportunities or external funding sources.

In some cases, students might also consider private or external loans, though these typically do not have the same favorable repayment terms as government loans. The university also provides comprehensive information about budgeting and financial planning to support students in efficiently managing their study expenses. Through these diverse financing avenues, the University of South Australia aims to make nursing education more accessible and affordable for a wide range of students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their pursuit of a career in nursing.

The Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry) program at the University of South Australia is designed to provide registered nurses and qualified health professionals an opportunity to re-enter or advance their careers in the nursing field. This program is tailored to meet the needs of individuals who have previous nursing experience and wish to update their skills, qualifications, or re-register with nursing boards. The program aims to enhance clinical competencies, expand theoretical knowledge, and develop critical thinking and professional practice among participants.

The course typically covers a comprehensive curriculum, including advanced nursing practices, healthcare policies, patient safety, ethical and legal considerations in nursing, and evidence-based practice. It emphasizes practical clinical placements, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. Students are usually required to complete a certain number of clinical hours, which are supervised by experienced professionals to ensure competency and confidence in real-world scenarios. The program is designed to be flexible to accommodate working professionals, often offering part-time options or blended learning models that combine online coursework with face-to-face sessions.

Eligibility criteria generally include holding a current nursing registration, relevant prior nursing qualifications, and relevant clinical experience. Applicants are often required to demonstrate competence in English and meet health screening requirements, including immunizations. The program supports students through academic advising, access to simulation labs, and ongoing assessment and feedback to ensure progression.

Graduates of the Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry) program are well-equipped to return to clinical practice or further their careers within the healthcare sector. They may work in hospitals, community health services, aged care facilities, or other healthcare environments. The program also aligns with the standards set by nursing accreditation bodies, ensuring that graduates meet national qualification requirements. The duration of the program varies depending on whether students undertake it full-time or part-time, but it generally spans approximately 1 to 2 years. The university offers dedicated support services to assist students with career planning, professional development, and job placement upon graduation.

Overall, the University of South Australia’s Nursing (Bridging & Re-entry) program is a comprehensive, flexible pathway for experienced nurses seeking to refresh their skills, meet re-registration requirements, or advance their careers in the dynamic and evolving field of healthcare.