Nursing

The Bachelor of Nursing at the University of South Australia provides students with a comprehensive education in nursing practice, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for delivering high-quality healthcare. This innovative program is designed to prepare graduates for roles in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health services, aged care facilities, and specialized clinics. Students will engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers core areas such as human anatomy, physiology, mental health, pharmacology, and nursing ethics. The program incorporates significant clinical placements, allowing students to gain real-world experience under the supervision of experienced professionals. These placements are integrated throughout the course, providing opportunities to apply classroom learning in practical environments, develop critical thinking skills, and build confidence in patient care. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements in healthcare and nursing practice, ensuring graduates are equipped with current knowledge and industry-relevant skills. The program also emphasizes cultural competence, communication skills, and leadership, preparing students to advocate effectively for patients and contribute positively to multidisciplinary teams. The university’s state-of-the-art simulation laboratories offer a safe environment for students to practice procedures and hone their clinical skills before entering real healthcare settings. Upon graduation, students will be eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) as registered nurses, opening doors to a rewarding career dedicated to improving health outcomes and patient well-being. The Bachelor of Nursing at the University of South Australia embodies a commitment to excellence in nursing education, fostering graduates who are not only skilled practitioners but also compassionate and ethically grounded professionals committed to lifelong learning.

The program consists of 54 units of study offered over 1.5 years of full-time or part-time equivalent. 

All content in the first 18 units of studies is underpinned by research evidence and teaching and learning activities foster critical analysis of research evidence and translation of research evidence in specialty nursing practice. These courses develop the ability to expertly apply modes of inquiry to identify and investigate questions, issues or problems to inform nursing and health care practice, knowledge and research. Students also undertake 18 units of core research studies which includes learning activities that reflect the processes of research, followed by 18 units of minor thesis.

Applicants are required to:

• hold a Bachelor degree in Nursing or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; and have a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 (credit average) in the program; OR
• have completed hospital based training in Australia as a Registered Nurse; AND have successfully completed the Graduate Certificate in Nursing or Graduate Diploma of Nursing offered by the University of South Australia, or an equivalent qualification from another Australian university and have a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 (credit average) in the Graduate Certificate/Graduate Diploma.

In addition, applicants must:

• hold a Current Practising Certificate as a Registered Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia or, for international students, be eligible to be licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse in their own country or place of residence; AND
• have completed a minimum of two years of clinical experience as a Registered Nurse.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

• IELTS total: - 6.5
• IELTS reading: - 6.5
• IELTS writing: - 6.5
• IELTS speaking: - 6.5
• IELTS listening: - 6.5

Each year, more than 2,500 students at the University of South Australia benefit from scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. We welcome high achieving students from developing countries who are supported by the Australian government program, Australia Awards. We also host around 500 students who are sponsored by their home government, university or employer. 

The Bachelor of Nursing at the University of South Australia is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in professional nursing. This program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of diverse healthcare environments. The curriculum covers essential areas such as human anatomy and physiology, psychology, health assessment, pharmacology, and nursing practice, providing students with a solid foundation in both scientific principles and patient care techniques. Throughout the course, students engage in clinical placements across a variety of settings, including hospitals, community health centers, and specialized clinics, enabling them to apply their learning in real-world contexts. These placements are integral to the program, fostering critical thinking, effective communication, and clinical judgment skills. The program also incorporates interprofessional learning experiences, encouraging collaboration with other healthcare professionals to promote holistic patient care. The University of South Australia's supportive academic staff provide mentorship and guidance to help students develop professional competencies and ethical understanding necessary for nursing practice. Upon graduation, students are eligible to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as registered nurses, allowing them to pursue employment opportunities across Australia and internationally. The program is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring it meets national standards for nursing education. The university also offers pathways for further postgraduate study, including specializations in areas such as aged care, mental health, and community health. The Bachelor of Nursing at UniSA is continually updated to reflect advances in healthcare and changes in policy, ensuring graduates are prepared for evolving healthcare landscapes. With a focus on evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and patient-centered care, the program aims to produce competent, compassionate, and reflective nurses who can contribute meaningfully to health systems and improve patient outcomes. Students benefit from modern facilities, innovative teaching methods, and strong industry connections that facilitate meaningful work experiences and employment after graduation.