Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice (CRICOS course code 059231J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 1 year. This program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their clinical skills and knowledge in a specialized area of nursing practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (059231J), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Melbourne, home to over 200,000 international students and 50+ CRICOS-registered providers, offers a vibrant study environment. The University of Melbourne, a Group of Eight university, is ranked among the world's top institutions. This course is ideal for nurses aiming to enhance their career prospects in Australia or globally.
Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice (CRICOS code 059231J) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) in the field of General Nursing (060301). It is offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb), a government-funded university with CRICOS provider code 00116K. The course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) and is delivered entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. All international students studying this course are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and quality standards.
The Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice focuses on advanced nursing skills, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice. Students will explore contemporary nursing issues, leadership, and specialized care pathways. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates at this level typically develop capabilities in patient assessment, care coordination, and interprofessional collaboration. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 8) and prepares nurses for roles in acute care, community health, or further study.
This course is structured as a 1-year full-time program, equivalent to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Parkville campus in Melbourne. International students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice are indicative at A$44,000 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$150, totaling approximately A$44,150. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check The University of Melbourne's website. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport.
International applicants should have an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall, though specific requirements may be higher. A prior qualification in nursing (e.g., Bachelor of Nursing) is typically expected. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; however, applicants who do not meet direct entry criteria may consider alternative pathways via The University of Melbourne. Always confirm exact entry requirements with the provider.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Parkville is a major education precinct with excellent public transport links via tram and train. Melbourne has over 1 million international students and is known for its multicultural community and high quality of life. The campus is close to central Melbourne, providing access to hospitals and clinical placement sites.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, OSHC, and evidence of financial capacity. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses provide ESOS Act protections. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses like Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Nursing), and location (VIC). Check provider details and course codes. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit The University of Melbourne's website to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UniMelb will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering nursing courses. The cost of living is moderate, with weekly rent averaging A$250–400 for shared accommodation. Public transport is extensive, and the city boasts world-class hospitals for clinical placements. Victoria has a high demand for registered nurses, offering strong employment prospects post-graduation.
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Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.