Master of Intensive Care Nursing (CRICOS course code 068709A) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is designed for registered nurses seeking to specialise in critical care nursing, offering advanced knowledge and clinical skills to manage patients with life-threatening conditions. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00026A), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The University of Sydney, a leading public university in Australia, combines research excellence with practical training. Graduates are prepared for roles in intensive care units, emergency departments, and high-dependency settings. The course is delivered at the Camperdown campus in Sydney, New South Wales, a vibrant city with a large international student community. Sydney is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, making it a top choice for nursing studies. Prospective students should note that this is a full-time, coursework-based program with no mandatory work component. The indicative tuition fee is A$74,080, with additional non-tuition fees of A$553, totalling approximately A$74,633. These fees are set by the institution and subject to change. English proficiency is required, typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify details with the provider before applying.
Master of Intensive Care Nursing (CRICOS 068709A) is a postgraduate-level Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, offered by The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A). The course focuses on the field of Critical Care Nursing (060309), preparing nurses to deliver advanced care in intensive care settings. The program spans 78 weeks (1 year 6 months) and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual degree or foundation studies. The University of Sydney is a government-funded public institution consistently ranked among the world's top universities. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. The CRICOS register confirms that this course is approved for overseas student enrolment, making it a reliable choice for those planning to study in Australia.
This course is designed for registered nurses who wish to specialise in critical care. The curriculum typically covers advanced pathophysiology, haemodynamic monitoring, mechanical ventilation, and evidence-based practice for critically ill patients. Students develop skills in clinical decision-making, leadership, and research application. As a coursework master's, the program includes lectures, tutorials, simulations, and clinical placements (though not counted as a work component). Graduates are equipped to work in intensive care units, coronary care units, and emergency departments. The field of Critical Care Nursing (060309) is part of the broader health education sector (06) and nursing (0603). Australia's high demand for qualified critical care nurses makes this qualification valuable for career advancement.
The Master of Intensive Care Nursing is a full-time program with a duration of 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree, and does not include foundation studies. The course is offered only as a coursework program with no prescribed work component. Students are expected to commit to full-time study, though part-time options may be available subject to visa conditions. The University of Sydney's Camperdown campus hosts all classes and practical sessions. International students must maintain a full-time study load to comply with student visa requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Intensive Care Nursing is A$74,080, with non-tuition fees of A$553, resulting in an estimated total of A$74,633. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport in Sydney), and the visa application charge are not included. Always confirm the latest fees with The University of Sydney directly. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only. ESOS Act protections ensure that fees paid are safeguarded if the provider cannot deliver the course.
Entry requirements for Master of Intensive Care Nursing typically include a bachelor's degree in nursing (or equivalent) and current registration as a nurse in Australia or overseas. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) common at this level. Some institutions may require relevant work experience in critical care. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course. Applicants should contact The University of Sydney for detailed entry criteria. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. For visa purposes, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion also applies.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. While clinical placements may be part of the curriculum, they are considered academic requirements and do not count as paid work. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any employment must not interfere with course requirements.
The Master of Intensive Care Nursing is delivered at The University of Sydney's Camperdown campus in Sydney, New South Wales. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and multiple universities. The Camperdown campus is located near the city centre, with excellent public transport links via trains, buses, and light rail. Sydney's cost of living is higher than the national average, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$500–600, groceries A$150, and public transport A$40–50. The city offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, diverse cuisine, and iconic landmarks. As of April 2026, there are numerous CRICOS-registered providers in NSW, offering a wide range of nursing courses.
International students enrolled in Master of Intensive Care Nursing must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study at a CRICOS-registered institution. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory progress, valid OSHC, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice. ESOS protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for nursing students, with world-class hospitals, research centres, and a diverse patient population. The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the top 50 globally, providing excellent teaching and research opportunities. However, living costs are high, and competition for placement in clinical settings can be intense. For international students, Sydney's multicultural community and strong support networks ease the transition. The city also has a high demand for critical care nurses, improving job prospects post-graduation. Consider your budget, career goals, and lifestyle preferences. Other states like Victoria or Queensland may offer lower costs and different clinical experiences. Use HeadStart Academy's resources to compare courses across Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Intensive Care Nursing at The University of Sydney:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A) is a government-registered provider offering this course.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and application deadlines. Submit your application through The University of Sydney's online portal with supporting documents.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
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Master of Intensive Care Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.