nursing courses brisbane

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Bachelor of Nursing

Be in demand as a fully qualified registered nurse and make a real difference to the lives of others.

Nursing is a vital and important career where you'll be highly sought after. 

UQ’s innovative Bachelor of Nursing program was developed in consultation with patients, students, professional associations and industry partners. It adopts a narrative and inquiry-based approach to learning, integrating clinical placements in major teaching hospitals and community and other healthcare settings.

You'll be hands-on right from the start, and undertake up to 880 hours of supervised clinical placements in a range of clinical settings, including hospitals, critical care, emergency medicine, paediatrics, aged care, rural and mental health.

In your final year, our dedicated placement team will arrange your clinical placement, where you'll apply your theoretical knowledge to practise and develop clinical skills in real-life settings. You may have the opportunity to undertake a placement outside the Brisbane metropolitan area or overseas, subject to funding.

Program highlights

• Start your practical experience in your first year, where you'll undertake rostered clinical placement shifts and clinical skills simulations.
• Consolidate your knowledge and skills through extended clinical placements in your final year – streamlining your transition from student to registered nurse.
• Become a competent, capable and caring professional registered nurse who works in partnership with patients and healthcare consumers.

30 in the world for nursing

Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023

1 in Queensland for clinical, pre-clinical and health

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024

How you'll learn

Your learning experiences are designed to best suit the learning outcomes of the courses you choose.

• Work placements
• Online study

Placements and work experience

You will undertake up to 880 hours of supervised clinical practice in a range of clinical settings that includes hospitals and a variety of health care organisations. You will have the opportunity during your placements to apply your theoretical knowledge acquired through coursework to practice and develop your clinical skills in real life setting. You will commence your clinical placements in the first year of the program. Over the first two years of the program you will normally complete multiple shorter placements involving 8-hour shifts and in the final year you will complete extended full time clinical placements. This program has pre-placement requirements which must be met prior to commencement of the program or a placement course. Further details can be found on the Placements website . Further information about placement providers can be found here .

What you'll study

At UQ, degrees are called 'programs' and subjects are called 'courses'. Here's a sample of the courses you could study in this program:

• Health Across the Lifespan
• Clinical Nursing Practice 1
• Older Adults' Health
• Acute Care Nursing

See courses and program structure

Dual programs

Double your skills and your opportunities with a dual degree. You can study the Bachelor of Nursing as a part of these dual programs:

• Bachelors of Nursing / Midwifery

Career possibilities

Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

• Registered nurse
• Registered nurse (aged care)
• Registered nurse (community health)
• Registered nurse (critical care and emergency)
• Registered nurse (child and family health)
• Registered nurse (disability and rehabilitation)

Graduate salary

Nursing (undergraduate)

compared.edu.au

Next steps after graduation

When you graduate, you are responsible for your own registration as a health professional with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

You can generally submit a graduate application for registration about six weeks before receiving your final results. After your results are released and you’ve received your completion letter confirming you have completed the requirements of your course, your faculty or school will send your details to AHPRA. AHPRA can then finalise your application.

Contact your faculty if you have any questions about your details being provided to AHPRA. You can also check the status of your application directly with AHPRA.

Program accreditation

The Bachelor of Nursing is accredited by:

• Australian Nursing And Midwifery Accreditation Council

In the Bachelor of Nursing I completed a placement which is integrated into your studies rather than being an intensive block. You might learn how to administer injections to patients and the next day you could have a hospital placement shift and are able to apply that skill.

In my final semester I travelled to Rockhampton to work with the Royal Flying Doctors Service. This opportunity allowed me to fly to multiple towns across Queensland to help those who were sick or injured.

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Entry requirements, prerequisites.

• General English subject (Units 3 & 4, C)

See equivalent subjects

Minimum entry score

Select where you studied and your qualification to see the minimum entry score you need to be considered for this program.

Use the minimum entry score as a guide. Your score must be at least equivalent to the required Australian Year 12 ATAR score. Entry requirements are subject to change.

Equivalent subjects

Entry score threshold

These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2024. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in April each year. Meeting the entry score threshold doesn't guarantee admission.

Guarantee your place at UQ: If you meet our guaranteed minimum ATAR  you could secure an offer for your preferred program.

English language requirements

IELTS overall 7; reading 7; writing 7; speaking 7; listening 7. For other English Language Proficiency Tests and Scores approved for UQ

TOEFL iBT (including Paper Edition) - Overall 100, listening 25, reading 25, writing 27, speaking 23.

PTE Academic - Overall 72, sub bands minimum 72.

Bridging English (BE) results, CES, BEP, and OET not accepted.

There are other ways to meet the English language requirements. For some programs, additional conditions apply.

Learn how to meet the English language requirements

Inherent requirements

To complete this degree, you have to meet its inherent requirements by demonstrating essential skills and attributes. Read the inherent requirements before you apply.

Learn about inherent requirements

Student visas

International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Bachelor of Nursing are eligible to apply for an Australian student visa (subclass 500).

There are a number of requirements you must satisfy before a visa is granted, including the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.

Learn more about student visas

Entry score range

This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the B Nursing for Semester 1, 2024

Learn more about adjustments

Who you'll study with

Here's a snapshot of our student intake for this program in Semester 1, 2024:

"<5" — The number of students is less than 5. N/A — Students not accepted in this category. N/P — Not published. The number is hidden to protect the privacy of students in other cells.

Need help meeting the entry requirements?

We can help you meet the minimum entry score, subject prerequisites or English language requirements for your preferred program.

If you haven't studied the prerequisites or need to improve your entry score, we can help.

Learn about pathway options

Additional application information

A semester 2 intake is available to eligible international students with advanced standing from selected partner institutions.

Fees and Scholarships

Indicative annual fee.

Approximate yearly cost of tuition (16 units). Your fees will vary according to your selected courses and study load. Fees are reviewed each year and may increase.

Fee information for 2025 is not yet available. Fee information displayed is for 2024.

Learn more about undergraduate fees

Approximate yearly cost of tuition (16 units). Your fees will vary according to your study load. Fees are reviewed each year and may increase.

AUD $43,200

Additional costs.

• Annual CPR re-certification (approximately $80 per year)
• Students are expected to fund travel and living expenses associated with placements, some of which may be outside the Brisbane metropolitan area.
• First Aid Certificate (including CPR) (approximately $130 renewed every 3 years)
• Police check for criminal history ($45)
• A clinical uniform shirt is required and may be purchased through the School.
• Costs for vaccinations and serology are the responsibility of the student and will vary based on individual and program requirements.

Government assistance

Financial aid.

As an international student, you might be eligible for financial aid – either from your home country, or from the Australian Government.

Learn more about financial aid

Domestic places in the Bachelor of Nursing are Commonwealth Supported. This means the cost of your education is shared between you and the Australian Government.

Instead of tuition fees, Commonwealth Supported students pay what are called student contribution amounts.

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme to assist eligible students with the cost of their student contribution amounts.

Learn more about HECS-HELP

Centrelink support

The Australian Government offers a number of income-support payments to eligible Australian university students.

Learn about Centrelink payments for students

Scholarships

You may be eligible for more than 100 scholarships, including:

How to apply

Applying online.

If your senior schooling is from outside Australia, you can submit your application to UQ. Or, if you prefer, you can use an  approved UQ agent in your country .

The program code for the Bachelor of Nursing is  2241 .

Find out more about applying for undergraduate study

If your senior schooling is from Australia

Submit your application to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre if you're an international student who is currently studying:

• Australian Year 12 (in Australia or another country), or
• the International Baccalaureate in Australia.

The QTAC code for the Bachelor of Nursing is  728502 .

Applying through QTAC

All domestic applications should be submitted to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC).

The QTAC code for the Bachelor of Nursing is 728502 .

Find out more about applying for undergraduate study

Important dates

If you’re studying Year 12 in Australia ,  go to the QTAC website  to check the closing date for this program. 

If you’re applying to UQ , the closing date for this program is: 

• To commence study in semester 2 - April 30 of the year of commencement.
• To commence study in semester 1 - November 30 of the previous year.

To learn more about UQ dates, including semester start dates,  view the Academic Calendar . 

To check the closing date for this program, go to the QTAC website .

To learn more about UQ dates, including semester start dates, view the Academic Calendar .

Admissions schemes

Applying to university can be both exciting and daunting, which is why we’ve tried to make the process as simple as we can.

We have several schemes in place to improve your chances of getting a place at UQ.

Learn more about admission schemes

Pathway options

A rank or score doesn’t determine your potential.

If you're not offered a place in your first-choice program – or if you don't meet the entry requirements – you still have a number of options.

Learn more about pathway options

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants

For support with applying – or if you have any questions about university life – get in touch with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit.

Contact the ATSIS Unit

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Bachelor of Nursing

Nationally we have over 200 clinical nursing partners who welcome our placement students.

Course information for - 2025 entry Are you an Domestic International

Offered at 6 locations location ballarat blacktown brisbane canberra melbourne north sydney.

For Victorian Students Only:

The Bachelor of Nursing - First Year Entry is aimed at school leavers and other students with no previous nursing qualifications.

The Bachelor of Nursing - Later Year Entry is aimed at applicants with previous nursing qualifications. Domestic applicants with a Diploma of Nursing qualification should apply via VTAC for the Bachelor of Nursing (Later Year Entry) program on the Ballarat (VTAC course code: 1200110271) and/or Melbourne (VTAC course code: 1200210271) campuses.

ACU graduate nurses are held in high regard for their clinical skills, quick thinking, and compassion. We’re connected to an extensive range of hospitals and health care partners, so you will get the best opportunities for industry placements and future employment. If you’re after an overseas experience, we also work with care facilities in a number of developed and developing countries.

There has never been a better time to study Health Sciences, with State and Territory governments and other external bodies offering various scholarships and support at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Check out these initiatives and others , and don’t forget to look at ACU’s own scholarships .

Ranked 4th in Australia for nursing

Ranked 10th worldwide for nursing

Top 2% universities worldwide

Professional experience

You will be required to complete at least 800 hours.

Work placement

Students will undertake clinical placements as part of a variety of clinical units throughout the course in hospitals and community facilities. As part of your course, you will be placed in a range of organisations to integrate the theory you learn with practical workplace experiences (placements).

Professional recognition

Eligible graduates can apply for registration as a nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). Please refer to the Registration Standards for Nursing and Midwifery on the Ahpra website .

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Nursing is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. 

Our graduates have pursued careers in:

• public hospitals
• private hospitals
• disability services 
• rehabilitation services
• specialist centres
• community health
• residential aged care facilities
• hospital emergency departments
• local and state government health departments
• not-for-profit organisations
• mental health services
• rural health services

Course details

Course structure.

To complete the Bachelor of Nursing, a student must complete 240 credit points (cp).

View course rules

Please note : Course maps are subject to change.

Commencing Semester 1

Year 1 semester 1.

CAMPUS ATTENDANCE.

Year 1 Semester 2

• Core Curriculum Units Core Curriculum Unit 1 See the ACU Core Curriculum page for details  10 cp

(Pre: NRSG139) 

Year 2 Semester 1

CAMPUS ATTENDANCE. (Pre: BIOL121)

(Pre: NRSG140)

Year 2 Semester 2

• Interdisciplinary Learning Units HLSC220 Health Care Ethics 10 cp
• Nursing Theory Units NRSG266 Principles of Nursing: Contexts of Ageing 10 cp

(Pre: NRSG140 & NRSG258 & NRSG263)

Year 3 Semester 1

(Pre: Core Curriculum Unit 1)

(Pre: NRSG264 & NRSG265 & NRSG267)

(Pre: NRSG264 & NRSG267)

(Pre: NRSG264 & NRSG267) 

Year 3 Semester 2

(Pre: NRSG265)

(Pre: NRSG373)

All units are delivered in multi-mode unless otherwise indicated in the map.

Prerequisites (Pre:) are other units that you must have passed before enrolling in the unit. 

Commencing Semester 2 (Blacktown Campus Only)

• Clinical Nursing Practice Units NRSG140 Integrating Practice 2 10 cp

All units are delivered in multi-mode, unless otherwise indicated in the map.

Graduate statement

As an ACU graduate you have personal insight founded on an understanding of who you are as a professional, a citizen and a scholar. You embrace change and growth through critical self-awareness and learning autonomy. You are empowered to seek truth and meaning, drawing on the principles of justice, equity, and the dignity of all human beings.

As an ACU graduate you value human dignity and diversity. This appreciation is founded on deep reflection, and empathy. You have experience of Indigenous Knowings and perspectives and can engage respectfully when working alongside Australia's First Peoples. You can connect with people and cultures and work with community in ways that recognise the dignity of the human person and all cultures.

Imagination

As an ACU graduate you utilise imagination and innovation to solve problems. You critically analyse information from a range of sources to creatively solve practical problems and use critical thinking to make decisions and advance the common good. You appreciate the role of innovation and creative thinking in developing a better future for each person and community.

As an ACU graduate you recognise your responsibility to work for social justice and a sustainable world founded on a commitment to human dignity and the common good. You lead change through respectful collaboration and effective communication of ideas to diverse peoples, groups and communities in local and global contexts. You are empowered to positively impact your profession and the community.

AQF framework

Additional course information.

In 2023 we welcomed 232 students to our Blacktown campus, 133 students to our Ballarat campus, 370 students to our Brisbane campus, 126 students to our Canberra campus, 605 students to our Melbourne campus and 313 new students to our North Sydney campus.

All lecture content will be provided by a series of short on-line recordings of ten to fifteen minutes for each module, the total time duration of the recordings for each module is between sixty minutes and ninety minutes. Online recordings provide considerable advantages including the ability to manage time and be self-paced in your learning. The online recordings allow you to review concepts multiple times so that you can master knowledge and link theoretical concepts with practical skills. Tutorial classes concentrate on theoretical concepts that develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning and have one academic facilitating the learning of between 26 and 30 students. The simulation wards are an important part of your learning and the environments are designed to closely simulate real world environments so you can develop the practical skills of administering care. Practical classes in simulation wards have between 24 and 30 students with two academic registered nurses teaching and guiding your learning.

Sample assessments

NRSG138 Transition to Nursing

• Online Quiz (20 per cent) - 20 randomised multiple-choice questions from content within weeks 1-3 inclusive.

• Written Essay (30 per cent) - 800 word essay allowing student to develop written communication skills.

• Case Study (50 per cent) - 1200 words to demonstrate developing skills of identifying health care priorities and person-centred nursing care.

Overseas study available

A number of units are offered each year at our Rome Campus, including NRSG265, NRSG266, NRSG267 (partial) and HLSC220 , while NRSG373 (partial) can be studied in Cambodia, India, USA, Timor Leste, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Denmark.

Entry requirements

An applicant must also comply with the  Admission to Coursework Programs Policy .

All students need to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements as defined in the  Admission to Coursework Programs Policy .

To be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have completed the following prerequisites at year 12 level, or equivalent.

Disclaimer: The course entry requirements above are for 2025 Admission. Refer to your relevant Tertiary Admission Centre website for future years' entry requirements.

View transparency admission information

Applicants with recent secondary education

You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course.  

If your school result was affected by circumstances outside of your control, such as financial hardship, illness, disability or a challenging home environment, you may qualify for an access scheme. You can apply through your TAC as part of your application process.  

Learn more about access schemes  

Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study

You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course. 

For current year 12 students  

If you’re a current Year 12 applicant you can be given a selection rank separate from, and in addition to, your ATAR if you’ve completed a competency-based and graded  AQF  Certificate III or above. 

For non-school leavers  

If you’ve completed, or are completing a competency-based  AQF  Certificate IV or  AQF  diploma you will be assigned a selection rank by your local Tertiary Admission Centre (TAC). This is an entry score based on your individual qualifications and achievements. 

ACU has partnerships with TAFE and many private education providers. If you have completed a qualification with one of these partners or with ACU College, you may be eligible for guaranteed entry and/or credit into a related ACU degree. Please apply through your local TAC and then submit a credit application for your previous study.

Applicants with higher education study

If you have completed at least two units of  AQF -recognised study at bachelor level or above, you’ll be assigned a selection rank based on your study level, duration and grade point average that will be applied during the admission process. 

If your previous study has equipped you with knowledge, skills or experiences that align with the learning outcomes of units in your new course you may be able to apply for recognition of prior learning and you may be able to complete your course sooner. 

Learn more about recognition of prior learning  

Applicants with work and life experience

You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course.

If you have no formal education qualifications you may be eligible for a selection rank based on your work, life or service experience.

• If you’ve been in paid employment, relevant to the course you’re applying for, for a minimum of six months full-time (or equivalent), this work may be assessed for your selection rank.
• If you’re 21 years or older you can sit the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) through your local TAC.
• You can apply for an ACU bridging course. Our bridging courses allow you to transition back into studying and can give you a head start on the relevant undergraduate degree.
• If you have served in the defence force, your rank and time in service may contribute to your selection rank.

Find your path into study

Adjustment factors

If you’re currently completing Year 12 you may be eligible for adjustment factors that can boost your rank and help you get into your desired course.

Adjustment factors may be applied to your TAC application if you study particular subjects, attend schools geographically close to our campuses or in certain regional areas, apply as an elite athlete or performer or meet certain other criteria.

Learn more about adjustment factors

Inherent requirement

There are essential components of a course or unit that demonstrate the capabilities, knowledge and skills to achieve the core learning outcomes of that course or unit. You will need to be able to meet these inherent requirements to complete your course.

Learn more about inherent requirements for your course and how they affect you

Pathways into course for current or recent Year 12 students

If you can’t meet the ATAR requirement for your choice of course and you’re currently completing Year 12 or finished Year 12 in the two years previously, we have entry programs to get you where you want to be.  

Understand your pathway options  

Pathways into course for applicants with previous study and/or life experience

Are you applying to ACU as a non-school leaver? 

By that we mean, you’re not currently completing Year 12 and haven’t completed it in the two years previously. If the answer is yes and your selection rank isn’t enough to meet the requirements for your desired course you still have a number of options to help you achieve your study goals. 

If you’re over 21, you can sit the  Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) , or you can complete a diploma or bridging course relevant to your desired course. 

Explore the pathways to your future  

Further study

An honours year is available to meritorious students, with a grade point average of 5.5, who meet the admission requirements for the Bachelor of Nursing (Honours).

The Faculty of Health Sciences also offers a suite of postgraduate coursework degrees in nursing. Specialties include mental health nursing, clinical nursing, clinical education, health administration as well as leadership and management in health care.

The faculty also offers the National Immunisation Education Program for Health Professionals .

Course costs

All costs are calculated using  current rates and are based on a full-time study load of 40 credit points (normally 4 units) per semester.

A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:

• the number of units studied per semester;
• the choice of major or specialisation; and
• elective units.

The University reviews fees annually.

Payment options

You should be able to concentrate on getting good marks instead of worrying about how you’ll pay your fees. We have a number of options that can help you ease the financial burden, including government assistance, scholarships and income support.

Explore your options

Scholarships

You could be eligible for one of the hundreds of scholarships we award each year to help students from across the university with the cost of studying, accommodation or overseas study opportunities. Some of our scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit, but these aren’t just for the academically gifted; ACU also recognises excellence in community engagement and leadership. We also offer a range of scholarships for those who may be struggling financially or who have faced other barriers to accessing education.  

Search our scholarships

Apply through VTAC

VTAC code 1200112201

How to apply

Domestic applicants, staff profile.

Dr Jacqui Young

Course coordinator, bachelor of nursing, brisbane campus.

Dr Jacqui Young is a Registered Nurse with extensive experience in clinical, education, management & research domains. She has worked as a nurse in emergency and intensive care units in major hospitals within Australia and Saudi Arabia. Jacqui has extensive education experience in the hospital sector, working as a clinical facilitator with undergraduate students; a clinical coordinator with new graduate nurses; a clinical educator for coronary/intensive care in a Saudi Arabian hospital, and a nurse re-entry program coordinator for nurses returning to the workforce in a major area health service in Sydney. She brings this extensive experience along with 16 years of tertiary academic experience to the nursing curriculum at Australian Catholic University. Jacqui’s teaching interests relate to primary health care nursing, health promotion and nursing management of chronic diseases.

Testimonial

I choose to study at ACU as when I explored universities in Melbourne, I heard from alumni and other nurses in the workforce how excellent the clinical classrooms are. Also I come from a regional town and wanted to ensure the university I attended did not feel too big, and the ACU campus and community is very welcoming.  The academic staff at ACU have been very approachable regarding questions for specific subjects or creating healthy and engaging discussions. The non-academic staff at ACU have also been excellent and supportive. I am involved in societies, sports, ACU gym and the Student Veteran Society at ACU and all staff members of this group always have the time to speak and check in about life and academics. 

Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023

Have a question?

We're available 9am–5pm AEDT, Monday to Friday If you’ve got a question, our AskACU team has you covered. You can search FAQs, text us, email, live chat, call – whatever works for you.

Live chat with us now

Chat to our team for real-time answers to your questions.

Visit our FAQs page

Find answers to some commonly asked questions.

• Study with UniSQ
• Nursing and Allied Health degrees

Nursing degrees

UniSQ's Nursing degree is fully accredited, align with current Australian professional nursing standards of practice and will give you the skills to deliver high-quality nursing care to people of all ages. With a combination of theory and clinical simulation in our well-resourced labs and nursing wards, you will be fully equipped to step straight into your nursing career. 

Receive the training and knowledge you need to provide exceptional care to people of all ages and stages of life with a Nursing degree from the University of Southern Queensland. With a focus on preparing students to take on the challenges of nursing from the moment they graduate, our students learn up-to-date professional standards of care from qualified lecturers, and experience hands-on instruction with lab work and placement experience.  Choose to undertake a full bachelors degree, a graduate certificate or further your education with a masters in a range of disciplines within nursing. Gain the skills and expertise you need to excel in your field.

Explore UniSQ's Nursing degrees

• Springfield

Achieving a qualification in nursing allows you to provide tangible help to people in both a clinical and at-home setting as a registered nurse. The University of Southern Queensland is proud to offer nursing degrees, graduate certificates and graduate diplomas for areas of care where your help is needed most. In particular, our Rural and Remote Health degrees empower students to make a real difference to the quality of healthcare available to remote communities. No matter what degree is right for you, studying nursing provides you with employable skills to last a lifetime.

UniSQ takes an individual approach to each student’s journey with us. No matter what your background or previously acquired skills and training, our team can help you get recognition for your previous study and meet the entry requirements for your chosen nursing degree. Unsure about whether you qualify? Check out our pathway programs  that can help you upskill and prepare to embark on your degree, fast.

As one of the premier institutions offering nursing degrees in Australia, the University of Southern Queensland offers a robust program that gives you practical training and a strong theoretical underpinning for a career in care. Apply  today to discover the supportive community and vibrant campus life that defines all of our campuses. 

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• Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration]

Become a nurse with expertise in the delivery of effective nursing care, with a particular focus on rural and remote healthcare needs. Communicate with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and plan and implement contemporary care at both an individual and community level. Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for Registered Nurse (Division 1) registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.

#1 in Queensland

This course requires some on-campus attendance by online students.

• Online: February, July
• Townsville: February, July
• Cairns: February, July
• Mackay: February, July
• Mount Isa: February, July

$5,596.00 +

+ estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load

Plus Student Services and Amenities fee Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible

Currently displaying fees for 2024, which are indicative only of the upcoming year's.

3 years full-time

3.5 years full-time for mid-year entry

Entry Requirements

Recommended Knowledge

English (Units 3/4,C), Biology, Chemistry and one of General Maths, Mathematical Methods, or Specialist Maths (Units 3/4,C)

Course detail

Learn how to assess clients, communicate with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, plan and implement nursing interventions, and manage and evaluate nursing care in this professionally-accredited degree. Benefit from extensive supervised professional practice and clinical experience in real world settings from year one.

This three year, full-time course focuses on nursing in our northern tropical context. It will prepare you for work as an RN in multiple settings from large metropolitan hospitals to rural and isolated practice clinics.

Benefit from JCU's reputation as the Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, and the World Health Organisation's Collaborating Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Education and Research Capacity Building.

Graduates will be eligible for registration as a Registered Nurse (Division 1) with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) .

Additional information

About JCU's Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration]

Follow your passion for helping others and study a Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration] degree . With registered nurses in high demand, you will graduate from JCU as a sought-after professional ready to pursue your dream career.

Our Nursing Degree in Queensland Helps You Help Others

Gain a contemporary theoretical and practical nursing degree in Queensland . Study with leading professionals in the health industry and benefit from their teaching excellence and experience. Learn how to plan and implement nursing interventions and manage and evaluate care.

A Bachelor of Nursing Science will train you to work in all settings, from metropolitan private and public hospitals to rural and isolated clinics. Gain expert knowledge in communication, Indigenous health studies, law and ethics, working with vulnerable population groups, mental health and the Australian healthcare system.

JCU’s pre-registration nursing courses value hands-on, practical learning. Apply your theoretical knowledge to 880 hours of supervised professional practice in a variety of acute and diverse community health settings. Build a broad skillset and learn how to communicate with people from diverse cultural backgrounds as you work closely with rural, remote, tropical and Indigenous communities.

James Cook University nursing programs are accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council.

Study a Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration] in Queensland

As you study nursing at JCU, you will learn more than just coursework and practice more than just nursing skills. Develop your skills as a critical thinker so you can help patients make choices that lead to the best outcomes.

Learn the ethics of nursing practice and how to apply them on a practical level. Your research experience will teach you how to find and analyse data to use it as the basis for your practice.

Develop skills in collaboration and administration and be ready to join the nursing community. You will understand when to take responsibility, when to delegate a task, and be ready to move forward quickly in your career.

Complete an accredited nursing degree. Become a Registered Nurse with JCU

Your JCU registered nurse degree is a supportive and dynamic pathway to a highly-respected career. Graduates of JCU’s Bachelor of Nursing Science conversion and RN programs are well supported by highly experienced teaching staff and are prepared to make a difference. Pursue your dream career and study nursing at JCU.

About JCU's on-campus Bachelor of Nursing degree

Graduates of JCU’s BSN work in a variety of areas including mental health, aged care, oncology, community health and health education. All JCU nursing programs are accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council.

To ensure that you meet the requirements for this course please review the course handbook below. Hide additional information

Inherent requirements

Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course.  These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment, and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration] .

A JCU Nursing degree prepares you for careers across a range of rural, regional and metropolitan nursing settings. This unique training will distinguish you from your peers and provide you with the knowledge and skills to excel.

JCU Nursing graduates are known for their skill, care and hard work across Australia and internationally. Graduates work in a variety of areas, such as metropolitan hospitals, rural and regional centres, government departments and defence, non-government agencies (NGOs) and community health.

The JCU Nursing degree provides you with a strong foundation for future specialisation in areas such as emergency, mental health, aged care, oncology and community health. Alternatively, you may want to focus on rural and remote practice, health policy, research, management or the education sector.

Entry score threshold

These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2024. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in June each year. Meeting the threshold doesn't guarantee admission.

ATAR/Selection Rank: 66.00

Entry score range.

This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the Bachelor of Nursing Science (Pre-registration) for Semester 1, 2024. The table includes offers deferred to Semester 1, 2024 which may have been assessed using the entry score threshold of an earlier year.

JCU Townsville

JCU Mount Isa

Notes: <5 – indicates less than 5 OP/ATAR-based offers made. * Refer to Adjustment Factors

Find out more about who you might study with by viewing this course’s student profile .

Adjustment factors

James Cook University applies bonus ranks under the Regional Preference Scheme and QTAC’s Educational Access Scheme (EAS). Learn more about JCU’s adjustment factors.

Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-registration]

Bachelor of nursing science [pre-registration] [mixed-mode].

Award Requirements

Admission requirements.

Academic Requirements for Course Completion

Inherent Requirements

Course Structure

Core subjects, teaching period 1.

BM1011 :03 Physiological Systems and Processes 1

HS1111 :03 Communication for Nursing and Midwifery

NS1771 :03 Introduction to the Professions

NS1881 :03 Nursing Practice 1

Teaching Period 2

BM1022 :03 Physiological Systems and Processes 2

NS1555 :03 Culturally Safe Healthcare for Australia’s First Peoples

NS1882 :03 Nursing Practice 2

NS1015 :03 Law and Ethics for Nursing and Midwifery

NS2771 :03 The Professional Role

NS2881 :06 Nursing Practice 3

NS2363 :03 Mental Health for Nursing and Midwifery

NS2219 :03 Health Equity and Policy

NS2555 :03 Digital Health Capabilities for Nursing & Midwifery

NS2882 :06 Nursing Practice 4

NS3771 :03 Consolidating Practice

NS3881 :06 Nursing Practice 5

Select NS3216 :03 Rural and Remote Nursing or NS3217 :03 Specialisation Project or 3 credit points of any undergraduate subject

NS3882 :09 Nursing Practice 6

NS3772 :03 Transition to Practice

Candidature

Progression

Award Details

Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD5,596.00

A  Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.

A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.

JCU Prep provides a pathway into this course. Enrolling in this flexible program will enable you to meet entry requirements including subject pre-requisites and ATARs. Introductory academic subjects are also available to prepare you for tertiary study.

Another pathway into this course is through a specific course-entry Diploma . Successful completion means you are eligible to transition into the associated JCU bachelor’s degree.

*Excludes entry into the Bachelor of Advanced Science, Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Marine Science, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, Bachelor of Nursing Science – Bachelor of Midwifery, Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), Bachelor of Physiotherapy, and Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours).

Note the course QTAC code for the location you've chosen. You'll need to enter it as part of your QTAC application.

Application dates vary between courses, whether they're delivered in semester, trimester or carousel study modes. View our Application due dates page for more information.

External (316139) -  Apply Now

Cairns (326031) -  Apply Now

Townsville (316031) - Apply Now

Mount Isa (346031) -  Apply Now

Mackay (336031) -  Apply Now

Admission requirements

This course may have specific admission requirements such as immunisation, a Suitability to Work with Children card, a federal police check and/or other conditions that students must comply with. You will find all the details of your course requirements in the JCU Professional Experience Placement website .

ATAR score is indicative only. Entry scores will be finalised in the major offer round.

Real stories

Ailee Hookey

My journey with JCU has been a lifechanging experience. The lecturers genuinely care and go above and beyond for us. As a science enthusiast, the microbiology, anatomy and physiology labs were the highlight of my first year, and the Indigenous Education and Research Centre has played an essential role in my success.

Jaise Jaimon

With a unique emphasis on rural and remote healthcare, JCU equips me for real-world challenges, making me confident in my abilities as a nursing student. The dedicated faculty and enriching community environment are crucial to my professional and personal growth, helping me become a competent and compassionate nurse.

Melanie Elloy  

As a mature student, going to uni was the best decision I have ever made. JCU has allowed me to make new friends and learn valuable skills from lecturers who are healthcare professionals, while receiving the best support and guidance. Now, I am kicking goals and making my dream of becoming a Registered Nurse a reality.

Julie Shepherd

Nursing and Midwifery

As a Nurse educator, I can help you to engage in your learning, inspire you to be your best and transform you from being ordinary to being great! If your dream is to have a career in nursing then JCU is the place where your dreams really do come true.

Hannah Smith

Clinical Facilitator, Mater Health

When we have hired JCU graduates, it has been the confidence in their ability to transition into the role of registered nurse that often stands out. Due to the close collaboration of JCU and the Mater, having them here on staff is like welcoming family.

Real-world experience

• James Cook University
• Bachelor of Advanced Science
• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
• Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Business / Laws
• Bachelor of Dental Surgery
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