The Best Nursing Courses in Australia 2026

Studying in Australia offers excellent opportunities for those pursuing a career in nursing, with graduates well-prepared to specialise in areas such as oncology, paediatric nursing, cardiac care and more. Courses are available both part-time and full-time, and tuition fees for international students typically range from AUD 34,500 to AUD 128,448, depending on the university and programme. Upon completion, graduates may pursue roles in hospitals, community health centres, private clinics and aged care facilities.

Australian universities are globally recognised for their high academic standards and rigorous quality assurance, and nursing degrees provide a strong theoretical foundation combined with essential practical skills. All nursing programmes are accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring consistency and excellence across institutions. As a leader in medical research and technological innovation, Australia offers nursing students the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge healthcare developments, gaining valuable experience with the latest tools and techniques in patient care.

Popular Nursing Courses in Australia

• Nursing diploma
• Bachelor’s of Nursing
• Master’s of Nursing
• Graduate Diploma/Certificate in Nursing

Explore some of the best nursing programmes in Australia below, based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. If you are ready to begin your application, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn for expert guidance.

Top Five Nursing Universities in Australia

1. The University of Sydney

Ranked 20th globally for Nursing, the University of Sydney is Australia’s highest-ranked nursing university. The Sydney Nursing School is known for its outstanding graduate outcomes, with a 98% employment rate shortly after graduation. Students are taught by leading researchers and clinicians, gaining exposure to evidence-based practice and the latest developments in global healthcare.

The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate options in fields such as nutrition and dietetics, emergency nursing, and intensive care nursing. Clinical placements are overseen by the NSW Department of Health, ensuring students are well-prepared to enter public and private health systems across Australia and beyond.

• Popular nursing course: BSc Nursing (advanced studies)

2. Monash University

Monash University’s Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences is ranked 3rd in the world for nursing in the Shanghai Global Ranking of Academic Subjects. The university focuses on preparing students to be highly competent, compassionate nurses who can lead change in the healthcare sector.

Courses are designed using evidence-based frameworks, and students gain extensive practical experience during their studies. The university reports a 95% graduate employment rate through its entry-to-practice programmes.

• Popular nursing course: Master of Nursing

3. The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers a comprehensive nursing curriculum designed to expand both clinical skills and theoretical knowledge. Programmes meet the requirements set by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council, ensuring graduates are fully prepared for professional practice as registered nurses.

The integrated curriculum balances classroom learning with clinical experience, preparing students for careers in health education, health promotion, nurse education, and clinical leadership.

• Popular nursing course: Master of Nursing

4. University of Technology Sydney

Recognised as a national leader in nursing education and research, the University of Technology Sydney offers a highly practical and industry-informed approach to nursing. Courses are led by expert academics with strong clinical and research backgrounds, giving students exposure to a variety of healthcare settings.

UTS maintains partnerships with over 100 clinical facilities across New South Wales, offering students invaluable real-world training and networking opportunities. Areas of specialisation include acute care, reproductive health, and health service management.

• Popular nursing course: Bachelor of Nursing

5. Griffith University

Griffith University is renowned for its hands-on, community-focused approach to nursing education. Students gain practical skills and experience through placements in urban, rural and remote locations, including Brisbane, South-East Queensland, Alice Springs, and Thursday Island. This wide-ranging exposure prepares students to work in diverse healthcare environments, from hospitals and aged care to Indigenous health services.

Griffith offers a comprehensive suite of programmes, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and graduate certificates in areas such as infection prevention, critical care, and emergency nursing. The university is also at the forefront of integrating digital health and research innovation into its teaching.

• Popular nursing course: Bachelor of Nursing (Hons)

Entry Requirements

International students typically need to have completed secondary school with strong results in biology and chemistry to gain entry into undergraduate nursing programmes. Most universities require:

• Minimum academic score: Equivalent to an Australian ATAR of 70–85 (e.g. IB score of 26–32, GPA of 2.8–3.5, or 65–80%)
• English language proficiency: IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no band below 7.0 (as required by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council); or TOEFL iBT score of 94+
• Additional requirements: Some universities may ask for a personal statement, interview, or proof of immunisations and health checks

Postgraduate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related health field, with a minimum GPA equivalent to 60–70%, and meet similar English language requirements. For registration purposes, clinical experience and professional references may also be required.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for international students studying nursing in Australia vary by university and programme level:

• Undergraduate nursing degrees: AUD 32,000–45,000 per year
• Postgraduate nursing degrees (e.g. Master of Nursing): AUD 35,000–52,000 per year

Living expenses are typically AUD 20,000–30,000 annually, depending on location and lifestyle. Scholarships are available at many institutions, including merit-based and healthcare-specific awards.

Visa Requirements

International students must apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study full-time in Australia. Key requirements include:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian university
• Proof of financial capacity: Funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel (approx. AUD 62,000 for one year)
• English proficiency: As per university and nursing registration standards
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory for the duration of stay
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement: Demonstrating intent to study and return after graduation

Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and full-time during holidays. Nursing students may also be eligible for extended post-study work rights under Australia’s skilled migration pathways.

Career Prospects and Salary

The scope of nurses and nursing education in Australia is promising, offering excellent employment and career opportunities. According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook, 8.9% growth is projected in registered nurse employment from 2020 to 2024. In addition, nursing in Australia provides visa sponsorship for skilled nurses through the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and the Regional Occupation List (ROL), addressing the demand for nursing professionals.

Study Nursing in Australia

Each of these universities offers international students a clear path into the Australian healthcare system, combining academic excellence with real-world readiness. If you’re interested in applying to study nursing in Australia, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn to receive expert guidance tailored to your goals.