Nursing (Mental Health)

The Bachelor of Nursing (Mental Health) at the University of Wollongong offers students a comprehensive education and practical training to become qualified mental health nurses. This program is designed to equip graduates with the essential clinical skills, theoretical knowledge, and compassionate approach necessary to provide high-quality mental health care across diverse settings. Throughout the course, students engage in rigorous coursework that covers a wide range of topics including psychological theories, mental health assessment, intervention strategies, pharmacology, and ethical considerations specific to mental health nursing. Emphasizing a patient-centered approach, the program prepares students to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges, ranging from common mental health disorders to complex psychiatric conditions.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs, clinical placements in accredited healthcare facilities, and opportunities to work alongside experienced mental health professionals. These practical experiences enable students to develop confidence in managing real-world cases, apply their theoretical knowledge effectively, and develop essential communication and interpersonal skills. The curriculum also promotes an understanding of the importance of cultural competence, recovery-oriented practices, and interdisciplinary collaboration in mental health care.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue employment in a variety of settings, including community mental health services, hospitals, private clinics, and emergency services. The program aligns with national and international standards for mental health nursing and provides pathways for further postgraduate study. By completing this degree, students become part of a growing profession committed to improving mental health outcomes and advocating for those in need. The University of Wollongong's Bachelor of Nursing (Mental Health) combines academic excellence with practical relevance, ensuring graduates are ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities affected by mental health issues.

• Reflection for Practice
• Effective Management in Health
• Essential Skills for Health Researchers
• Legal and Professional Issues
• Recovery and Lived Experience Mental Illness
• Informed Practice in Mental Health Nursing
• Philosophies of Mental Health Care
• Psychoactive Substance and Mental Health
• Applied Analysis in Health Research
• Critical Appraisal
• Minor Project

• A recognised Bachelor degree or Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing and qualifications to practise as a Registered Nurse, or equivalent. Students must have experience or be currently employed in a mental health setting.
• Level of English is required to gain admission. IELTS Academic 6.5. TOEFL (Internet-based) - 88.
• All students are required to pay  Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of their student visa.  OSHC provides for medical and hospital cover for students and their dependants.Our preferred OSHC provider is BUPA. 

The Nursing (Mental Health) program at the University of Wollongong offers a comprehensive pathway for students seeking a career in mental health nursing. Funding options for students enrolled in this program are available through various channels, including government-supported schemes, scholarships, and student loans. Australian citizens and permanent residents may be eligible for Financial Assistance through the Australian Government's Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which significantly reduces the cost of tuition. In addition, the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) provides options for eligible students to defer part or all of their tuition fees, which are then repaid through the tax system once the student reaches a certain income threshold. International students pay full tuition fees, which are due at the commencement of each semester, unless they have secured scholarships or sponsorships. The University of Wollongong also offers various scholarships dedicated to supporting nursing students; these include merit-based awards, equity scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and specific mental health nursing bursaries. Students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities such as government grants, private scholarships, and community sponsorships, depending on their circumstances. The university's financial services and student support centers provide detailed guidance on application procedures, eligibility requirements, and deadlines for these funding options. Moreover, part-time work opportunities on or near the university campus can help students manage their expenses while gaining practical experience in healthcare environments. It is recommended that prospective students review the university's official website and contact financial aid advisors early in their application process to ensure they are aware of all available funding sources and supportive measures to assist in financing their studies. This proactive approach can ease the financial burden and allow students to focus fully on their academic and clinical training, ultimately supporting their successful completion of the Nursing (Mental Health) program and a rewarding career in mental health nursing.

Student Services and Amenities Fee

The SAF is a compulsory charge, introduced following changes to Australian Government legislation, which funds improvements to facilities for students across a broad range of service areas, such as subsidised food outlets, childcare, student advocacy as well as sporting, recreational and cultural activities. 

All international students enrolled at UOW will be invoiced twice yearly for the amount determined each year.  The SAF 2016 fee is: 

• Wollongong campus $290.00 per year
• Sydney campus $145.00 per year
• Wollongong Innovation Campus $145.00 per year
• Other campuses in Australia $145.00 per year

Living Expenses

In addition to tuition fees, a single student living in Wollongong will require $10,000 to  $12,000 a year – depending on lifestyle – to cover accommodation, food, transport and other expenses including text books and study materials and entertainment.