Studying Nursing in Australia
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Is Nursing Your Pathway to Work and Residency in Australia?
While the nursing profession offers promising pathways for international students, it's important to understand that Australia's immigration system operates on a points-tested visa system. Your eligibility will depend on factors like age, qualifications, English language proficiency, and more. If you lack work experience in nursing, studying in Australia is an excellent route toward becoming a Permanent Resident and later, an Australian citizen.
Why Choose Nursing in Australia?
• Australian University Reputation: With 10 universities ranking among the top 50 for nursing education, Australia's reputation for high-quality nursing courses is globally recognized. Graduates from Australian nursing programs are sought after internationally, allowing for diverse career opportunities across various countries.
• Diverse Employment Opportunities: With healthcare as Australia's largest employing industry and an aging population, the demand for nursing professionals is anticipated to surge. The workforce required for this sector is projected to exceed two million by 2025, providing a strong job market for nursing graduates.
• Longer Stay Post-Graduation: The skilled occupation listing consistently includes registered nurses, making it easier for graduates to apply for permanent residency visas, especially if they graduate from a Bachelor of Nursing and pass the skill assessment for Registered Nurses.
What are the Career Outcomes After Graduation from Nursing Courses?
The completion of a nursing course opens various employment avenues:
• Assistant in Nursing (AIN): Entry-level role with an average payment of $24 per hour.
• Enrolled Nurse (EN): The second level of nursing, working under supervision and allowed to perform additional patient care responsibilities.
• Registered Nurse (RN): An independent role with a high level of accountability, involving complex nursing care and medication administration.
Nursing Courses Available for International Students in Australia
• Diploma of Nursing: A 1-1.5 year course qualifying graduates as enrolled nurses.
• Diploma of Nursing + Bachelor of Nursing: A pathway allowing entry into the second year of a Bachelor of Nursing after completing a diploma.
• Bachelor of Nursing: A 3-year undergraduate degree leading to registration as a nurse.
• Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry Program): A 2-year program for graduates from other fields aiming to become registered nurses.
• Master of Nursing (Pre/Post-registration): Advanced courses catering to different nursing backgrounds and career aspirations.
Entry Requirements for International Students
• Diploma Programs: Completion of Year 12 or equivalent with an IELTS score of 7.0 (some programs may accept 6.5).
• Bachelor Programs: IELTS 7.0 and completion of Year 12 or a Diploma of Nursing. Graduate Entry Programs require a bachelor's degree and IELTS 7.0.
Costs for Studying Nursing Courses
• Diploma fees range from AU$24,000 to $33,000, while a 3-year Bachelor program may cost around $109,000. Combined Diploma and Bachelor programs offer a cost-efficient pathway at approximately $97,000.
Becoming a Registered Nurse in Australia
• Study: Complete a Bachelor or Master of Nursing in Australia.
• Registration: Undergo assessment by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) involving police checks and English language proficiency tests.
Skill Assessment for Nursing in Australia
• Skills assessment by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) requiring documentation of qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency. Migration Pathway for Nurses
• Completing nursing studies makes graduates eligible for a 485 visa, followed by potential pathways to permanent residency through visas like 189, 190, and 191. Curious to know more about the PR Pathway for a Registered Nurse?
Contact Brasica Migration & Education Group for expert guidance tailored to your nursing aspirations in Australia, New Zealand, or the US!