Program Overview

Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry Pathway)

The Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry Pathway) is a two-year full-time course designed for individuals with a prior degree or diploma in a health-related field. This course enables students to add a nursing qualification to their existing degree, building resilience to navigate the rapidly evolving healthcare sector.

Overview

• Award: Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry Pathway)
• Start Dates: 2 February 2026
• Duration: 2 years full-time
• Learning Mode: Multi-Modal
• Scholarships: Available, view fees and scholarships for details
• Prerequisite: Diploma or Bachelor Degree with studies in Health, Behavioural science, or Biological science
• Fees: $5,337 (CSP) per 120 credit points, with the indicative annual fee based on the expected full-time study plan for students in their first year

About the Course

This course is designed to provide a strong foundation in acute care, chronic illness, Indigenous health, mental health, rehabilitation, community, and emergency care, biosciences, and research. Students will gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation labs and complete clinical placements at leading metropolitan and regional hospitals from the first year. The course focuses on developing employability skills in leadership, time management, critical thinking, and communication, preparing graduates to apply for registration as a registered nurse (RN) with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Entry Requirements and Pathways

• Prerequisite: Diploma or Bachelor Degree in Health, Behavioural science, or Biological science. Applicants without these may need to complete a short course in Anatomy and Physiology.
• Selection Criteria: Includes the ability to complete the STAT multiple choice for those not currently studying an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and the option to submit a Personal Statement for other considerations.
• VTAC Equity Schemes (SEAS) & Scholarships: Available for eligible students.
• Core Participation Requirements: Outlined to ensure students can participate fully and safely in the course, including behavioural, cognitive, sensory, and physical requirements.

What You'll Study

• The course structure includes core subjects, elective subjects, and capstone subjects, totaling 360 credit points over two years.
• Core Subjects: Include Year level 1 credits, Academic Integrity Module, Wominjeka La Trobe: Indigenous Cultural Literacy for Higher Education, First Nations Health, Mental Healthcare in Nursing, Professional Practice in Nursing, and more.
• Elective Subjects: A range of standalone electives available, with some recommended for the course.
• Capstone Subjects: Professional Practice in Nursing Six, designed to integrate and apply knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.

Course and Career Outcomes

• Intended Learning Outcomes: Include exhibiting inclusive and responsive professional nursing practice, critically reviewing and analyzing professional nursing practice, employing evidence-based frameworks, and demonstrating therapeutic communication strategies.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates may pursue nursing positions in various fields, including clinics, hospitals, homes, hospices, aged care settings, schools, universities, community health centers, government agencies, and private industry.
• Professional Recognition: The course is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), and graduates may be eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated Course Fees for Domestic Students: $5,337 (CSP) per 120 credit points, with fees potentially changing in later years.
• Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP): Available, with the student contribution set by the government.
• Scholarships: Various scholarships are available, including the Bendigo Pioneers Bursary, Regional Benefits Program, La Trobe High Achiever Scholarship, and more.

How to Apply

• Before You Apply: Check eligibility and application pathways.
• Applying for a Bachelor's Degree: Options include applying directly to La Trobe or through VTAC for Victorian students.
• Special Access Schemes: Available for eligible students, including those from rural or regional areas.
• La Trobe Elite Athlete Program: Supports students who participate and compete in sport at an elite level.
• RISE Program: Offers culturally adept pathways for Indigenous students.