Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-07-07 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2025-11-03 | - |
| 2026-01-05 | - |
| 2026-03-02 | - |
| 2026-05-04 | - |
| 2026-07-06 | - |
| 2026-09-07 | - |
| 2026-11-02 | - |
Program Overview
Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing
Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing is a postgraduate qualification designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of registered nurses in a specific area of nursing practice. The course is offered online and consists of three units, including one core unit and two specialisation units.
Course Aims
The course aims to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in a specific area of nursing practice, enabling them to provide high-quality care to patients and contribute to the development of the nursing profession.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing, applicants must:
- Have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree or an equivalent qualification
- Be an AHPRA registered nurse; or
- Be a registered nurse with the Nurses' Board/Council from the country of origin or place of residence
- Meet the English Language Proficiency Entry Requirements
Course Structure and Delivery
The course consists of three units:
- N9001: Professional Issues and Policies in Nursing (12 credit points)
- N8020: Diabetes Nursing (12 credit points)
- N8021: Professional Reflection in Diabetes Nursing (8 credit points)
Course Start Dates
The course starts on various dates throughout the year, including:
- January
- March
- May
- July
- September
- November
Tuition Fees
The total tuition fee for the course is AUD $8,000.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing may pursue careers in:
- Advanced Practice Nursing
- Nurse Education
- Nurse Management/Administration
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Nurse Researcher
Research Areas
The course focuses on the following research areas:
- Diabetes Nursing
- Professional Issues and Policies in Nursing
- Professional Reflection in Diabetes Nursing
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the admission requirements for the course?
Applicants must have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree or an equivalent qualification, be an AHPRA registered nurse, or be a registered nurse with the Nurses' Board/Council from the country of origin or place of residence. They must also meet the English Language Proficiency Entry Requirements.
2. Can I apply for the program if I have a nursing degree from a different country?
Yes, applicants with a nursing degree from a different country can apply for the program if they meet the admission requirements.
3. Can I pursue the program on a part-time basis?
Yes, the course is designed to be completed on a part-time basis.
4. Are there any specific specialisation options within the program?
Yes, the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing offers a choice of 13 different areas of specialisation.
5. What are the career prospects after completing the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing?
Graduates may pursue careers in Advanced Practice Nursing, Nurse Education, Nurse Management/Administration, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nurse Researcher.
6. Are there any clinical placements or practical components included in the program?
No, the course does not include specific clinical placements or practical components.
7. How much does the program cost, and are there any scholarships or financial aid options available?
The total tuition fee for the course is AUD $8,000. IHM offers several scholarship opportunities, including the Upfront Payment Scholarship and the Alumni Scholarship.
8. What is the mode of instruction for the program? Is it offered online or in-person?
The program is designed to be completed online.
9. Are there any prerequisite courses or knowledge required for admission into the program?
Applicants must have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree or an equivalent qualification and be an AHPRA registered nurse or a registered nurse with the Nurses' Board/Council from the country of origin or place of residence.
10. Are there any exams or assignments?
Yes, all subjects include online assessments and quizzes.
11. Can I continue my studies and pursue a higher degree after completing the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing?
Yes, graduates may pursue a higher degree, such as a Master of Nursing.
12. Can I enrol in this program with a diploma in nursing instead of a bachelor's degree?
Yes, registered nurses who hold a current nursing registration and have completed a three-year diploma program in nursing are eligible to participate in the program.
13. Is attendance required for live sessions?
No, attendance for live sessions is not mandatory.
14. Is it necessary to have IELTS, PTE, or OET to enrol?
No, IHM has an English Waiver policy in place that takes into consideration various factors related to language proficiency.
15. I don't have a nursing background; can I still apply to this program?
No, having a nursing background is typically a mandatory requirement to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing program.
16. Is there a minimum or maximum age requirement to enrol in the class?
No, participants of any age are welcome to take this course.
17. Is it possible to directly register as a nurse in Australia after completing this course?
No, completing this course does not directly lead to registration as a nurse in Australia.
18. Is this program recognised by any accrediting bodies?
Yes, the program is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).
19. How many units are there in the course?
The course consists of three units.
20. Is the course recognised in countries other than Australia?
Yes, the course is recognised globally.
21. If I take a break in my nursing job, will it still be possible for me to join in the course?
Yes, nurses who have taken a break from their nursing job are still welcome to join the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing program.
22. Are there any face-to-face exams that require the student to physically be present at an examination centre?
No, the course does not require students to physically attend an examination centre for face-to-face exams.
