Bachelor of Nursing (Conversion) (CRICOS course code 085515C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 48 weeks (~11 months). This program is designed for registered nurses seeking to upgrade their qualifications to a Bachelor level, focusing on advanced nursing practice and leadership. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00102E), UoW can enrol international students under the Student visa (Subclass 500). Located in Wollongong, NSW, the university offers a vibrant campus environment with access to modern clinical facilities. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your studies.
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Bachelor of Nursing (Conversion) (CRICOS 085515C) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) in the field of Health, specifically General Nursing (060301). It is offered by University of Wollongong (UoW), a government-funded institution established in 1951. The course duration is 48 weeks (approximately 11 months) of full-time study, delivered in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. This course is ideal for internationally qualified nurses seeking to meet Australian nursing standards and registration requirements. UoW is one of over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,433 courses to international students as of April 2026.
The field of General Nursing (060301) covers the principles and practices of nursing care across diverse healthcare settings. At the Bachelor Degree level, students typically develop advanced clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, and leadership skills. While the specific syllabus is determined by UoW, graduates can expect to gain competencies in patient assessment, care planning, pharmacology, and health promotion. The conversion program builds on prior nursing knowledge, enabling students to apply Australian healthcare standards. This field is part of the broader category 06 - Health, which includes nursing, medicine, and allied health disciplines.
The course runs for 48 weeks (approximately 11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no bundled award). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend full-time on campus at UoW Wollongong. The intensive duration allows qualified nurses to complete their degree relatively quickly. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500).
Tuition fee: A$35,808 (indicative). Non-tuition fee: A$365 (indicative). Estimated total: A$36,173 (indicative). These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please visit the University of Wollongong website for current fees. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500-700 per week in Wollongong for rent, food, and transport), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Always confirm total costs directly with UoW before applying.
English proficiency: IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall (no band below 5.5-6.0) or equivalent. Applicants must hold a recognised nursing qualification (e.g., Diploma or equivalent) and current registration as a nurse in their home country. Prior academic qualifications at a level equivalent to Australian Year 12 or higher are expected. UoW may also consider relevant work experience. For specific entry requirements, refer to the University of Wollongong website or contact their admissions office. Foundation/pathway options are not available for this conversion course; however, applicants who do not meet English or academic requirements may explore other programs at UoW.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, nursing programs often include clinical placements as part of the curriculum. Please check with UoW for details. If placements are included, they may be considered a compulsory component, so confirm directly with the provider. Work experience is not a formal part of this CRICOS-registered course.
This course is delivered at: UOW Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, WOLLONGONG, NSW 2522. Wollongong is a coastal city approximately 80 km south of Sydney, with a student population of over 30,000 at UoW alone. The city has a moderate cost of living, with indicative weekly rent of $200-400 for shared accommodation, groceries around $80-150, and public transport costs of $30-50. The campus is accessible by train (1.5 hours to Sydney) and local buses. Wollongong has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses, making it a popular study destination.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and confirmation of enrolment (CoE). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the entire visa duration. The ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring course quality and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Wollongong offers a balanced lifestyle with beaches, parks, and a multicultural community. The University of Wollongong is consistently ranked among the top universities globally and has strong industry links in health and nursing. Cost of living is lower than Sydney, making it attractive for budget-conscious students. Consider factors like climate (mild winters, warm summers), proximity to Sydney, and availability of part-time work in healthcare. The city has a growing healthcare sector with hospitals and aged care facilities, providing potential job opportunities for nursing graduates. However, public transport to some clinical placements may require planning.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Nursing (Conversion) at University of Wollongong (UoW):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Health/Nursing), and city (Wollongong). Confirm the exact course using CRICOS code 085515C. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check UoW's entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications, registration). Submit your application by the deadline. UoW may require a portfolio or interview.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, UoW issues a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but not migration advice.
Explore more nursing courses in Wollongong or contact UoW directly to start your application.
Bachelor of Nursing (Conversion) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Wollongong (UoW). 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.