Graduate Diploma in Nursing (Professional Studies) (Exit Only) (CRICOS course code 086214G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking advanced nursing knowledge in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00917K), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course focuses on general nursing (Field of Education 060301) and is intended as an exit pathway for students who complete certain professional studies. Western Sydney University is a public university with a strong reputation in health education. Studying in Parramatta, a vibrant Sydney suburb, gives you access to modern facilities and clinical networks. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – ensuring you get accurate, trustworthy information to plan your study journey.
This Graduate Diploma in Nursing (Professional Studies) (Exit Only) is a one-year program at Western Sydney University, delivered in English. It is classified under Field of Education 060301 – General Nursing, and is at AQF Level 8 (Graduate Diploma). The course is listed on CRICOS with code 086214G, confirming its registration for international student enrolment. As a public university, Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) is committed to providing quality education under the ESOS Act protections. The course is a single qualification (not dual) and does not include a mandatory work component. It is ideal for students who already have a background in nursing and wish to further their professional studies, serving as an exit point for those completing specific programs.
As a Graduate Diploma in Nursing, this program covers advanced concepts in general nursing. Students typically develop competencies in patient care, clinical decision-making, health assessment, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum aligns with Australian nursing standards and prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare settings. While the specific syllabus is set by Western Sydney University, graduates can expect to gain expertise in areas such as chronic disease management, mental health nursing, and community health. This level of study assumes prior nursing qualifications and experience. The focus on general nursing (060301) provides a broad foundation applicable across various healthcare environments. Always check the provider's website for the latest subject list and learning outcomes.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification only – no dual awards or foundation studies attached. The program is most likely full-time, but you should confirm study mode with Western Sydney University. International students on Student visas (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. The language of instruction is English, meeting the requirements for international students. No VET national code applies as this is a higher education course. Duration and mode are key factors in your student visa application, as you must demonstrate sufficient time to complete the course.
Tuition for this Graduate Diploma is indicative at A$38,736 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$300, giving an estimated total of A$39,036. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees and any scholarships, always refer to the Western Sydney University website. Living costs in Parramatta are similar to Sydney averages – around A$500-700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Budget carefully using official cost-of-living guides from the Department of Home Affairs.
While specific prerequisites are set by Western Sydney University, typical entry for this Graduate Diploma level requires a completed bachelor's degree in nursing or equivalent. International students must demonstrate English proficiency – commonly IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent) depending on the provider's requirements. Some institutions may also consider prior learning or work experience. Foundation or pathway options are not specified for this course, but if you need to meet academic or English entry standards, consider pathway programs or English language courses offered by the university. Always contact Western Sydney University directly for precise entry criteria and any prerequisite subjects. Meeting entry requirements is essential for obtaining a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. While the course itself does not include a work placement, you may seek casual or part-time employment to supplement your income and gain Australian experience. Remember that work rights are tied to visa conditions and you must prioritise your studies. Always check your visa grant conditions for the most up-to-date work limitations.
This course is delivered at Western Sydney University – Parramatta campus, located in Parramatta, NSW. Parramatta is Sydney's second-largest central business district, about 25km west of the city centre. It is a major hub with excellent public transport links (trains, buses, light rail) and a large student population. The area offers a range of affordable accommodation, multicultural dining, and parks. Parramatta itself has over 10 CRICOS-registered providers, and the wider Sydney region has hundreds. Living costs in Parramatta are generally lower than the Sydney CBD, with indicative weekly rent around $300-450 for shared housing. When choosing a delivery location, consider commute times, library facilities, and clinical placement opportunities in local hospitals. Western Sydney University's Parramatta campus is well-equipped with modern nursing labs and simulation centres.
Parramatta offers a unique blend of urban convenience and community feel, making it an attractive choice for nursing students. The city is home to major hospitals like Westmead Hospital and The Children's Hospital at Westmead, providing ample clinical placement and networking opportunities. With a diverse population, you'll gain experience caring for patients from various cultural backgrounds – invaluable for a nursing career. The cost of living is manageable compared to central Sydney, and the public transport network makes it easy to explore. However, consider that Parramatta can be busy during peak hours, and some clinical placements may require travel. Overall, if you value a vibrant, student-friendly environment with strong healthcare links, Parramatta and Western Sydney University are excellent choices.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Once you receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Western Sydney University, you can apply for your visa. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks – subject to visa conditions and work rights. The ESOS Act and National Code protect your rights as an international student. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. This course is at Graduate Diploma level in Nursing, delivered in Parramatta by Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K).
2. Apply directly to Western Sydney University – meet entry requirements (English language, prior qualifications), submit your application through their international admissions portal, and provide required documents. Check application deadlines and any additional selection criteria.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you accept the offer and pay tuition, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC and financial capacity.
Start your application today – explore this course on HeadStart Academy and connect with Western Sydney University.
Graduate Diploma in Nursing (Professional Studies) (Exit Only) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. 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.