Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] (CRICOS course code 094558F) is a 2-year Associate Degree (AQF Level 6) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN), a government university with CRICOS provider code 00109J. This course falls under the field of Health (n.f.d.) and is designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills in health sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (094558F), it is approved for international student enrolment, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards under the ESOS Act. The University of Newcastle offers this program at its Callaghan and Central Coast campuses in New South Wales. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, location details, and visa guidance. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026. Note: This is an exit-only award, meaning it is a qualification awarded to students who exit a higher-level degree program or may be a standalone offering. Confirm details with UoN.
This Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] (CRICOS 094558F) is registered with the Australian Government’s CRICOS database, ensuring the course meets national quality standards for international students. The University of Newcastle (UoN) is a public university with a strong reputation in health and medical research. Students benefit from ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and access to support services. The course is classified under field of education 060000 (Health, n.f.d.) and is delivered in English over 104 weeks. As an exit-only award, it may be awarded to students who complete a specific set of units before progressing to a bachelor's degree, or it can be taken as a standalone qualification. International students must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) to enrol. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register as of 1 April 2026. Always verify current registration and fees with the provider.
The Associate Degree in Health covers broad foundations in health sciences, including introductory anatomy and physiology, public health principles, health promotion, and communication in healthcare settings. Students develop critical thinking, research skills, and an understanding of the Australian healthcare system. The program prepares graduates for roles in health support or as a stepping stone to further study in nursing, allied health, or public health. While specific units are determined by The University of Newcastle, typical learning outcomes include the ability to apply evidence-based practice, work collaboratively in health teams, and understand ethical and legal frameworks. This qualification sits at AQF Level 6, indicating a higher level of knowledge and skills than a diploma. For international students, studying health in Australia provides exposure to a world-class healthcare environment and multicultural patient populations.
The Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—it does not incorporate a dual award or foundation studies. Students are expected to study full-time to maintain compliance with student visa conditions. The University of Newcastle offers this program on campus at Callaghan and Central Coast. There is no mandatory online component, but some materials may be provided digitally. Check with UoN for details on class schedules and attendance requirements. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to renew their visa.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$92,988, with non-tuition fees of A$765, giving an estimated total of A$93,753. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. The University of Newcastle sets its own fees, typically reviewed annually. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (mandatory for international students, approx. A$500–A$700 per year for single cover), living expenses (estimated A$21,041 per year per Department of Home Affairs for 2026, though actual costs vary by city), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 as of 2026). Travel, accommodation, and textbooks also add to the budget. HeadStart Academy recommends always confirming current fees directly with The University of Newcastle via their website (www.newcastle.edu.au) before applying.
Entry requirements for this Associate Degree are set by The University of Newcastle. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency—typically an IELTS overall score of 6.0 to 7.0 depending on the level, with no band less than 6.0 (equivalent scores from TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge accepted). Academic requirements generally include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification, with prerequisite subjects in English and possibly mathematics or science. Foundation studies or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry. The University of Newcastle provides specific guidance on equivalencies and may consider work experience. As every applicant’s background is unique, it is essential to contact the admissions office or consult the provider’s website. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility—only CRICOS-registered providers can determine entry requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may still seek voluntary work experience or internships independently, but the CRICOS register indicates no embedded work placement. 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 work must not interfere with study commitments. The University of Newcastle’s career services may assist in finding part-time opportunities in the health sector, but this is not a formal part of the curriculum.
The Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] is delivered at two campuses: The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW, and The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) in Ourimbah, NSW. Callaghan is the main campus, located about 12 km from Newcastle city centre, with easy access via public transport. Newcastle is a regional city with a population of over 500,000, offering a lower cost of living compared to Sydney—indicative weekly rent for a single bedroom in a shared house is around A$200–A$300, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. The Central Coast campus is in Ourimbah, near Gosford, with similar living costs and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Both campuses provide modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. Sydney is about 1.5 hours by train from Newcastle and 1 hour from Gosford, giving access to metropolitan opportunities. There are over 2,000 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, but NSW alone hosts a significant share, with Sydney having the highest concentration of international students.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Newcastle, evidence of sufficient funds (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and dependents if applicable), English proficiency (unless exempt), and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. As of 2026, the visa application charge is A$1,600. OSHC must be purchased for the duration of the visa (typically the length of the course plus a buffer). Health insurance can be arranged through the university or providers like Medibank, Bupa, or Allianz. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited in holidays. Post-study work rights may apply if you graduate with a higher degree, but this Associate Degree (AQF 6) qualifies for a 2-year Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if completed in 2026 or later. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current policies. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Associate Degree), field (Health), and location (NSW). Confirm that the University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) is registered to deliver CRICOS course 094558F.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit The University of Newcastle’s international admissions page. Meet entry requirements including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.0–7.0), academic transcripts, and documentation. Submit your application before the relevant deadline (typically semester intakes in February and July).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, UoN will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not process applications. All steps must be completed with the provider and Australian authorities.
New South Wales offers diverse study environments for health students. Sydney is Australia’s largest city with world-class hospitals and research centres, but living costs are high (weekly rent average A$400–$600 for a room). Regional centres like Newcastle and the Central Coast provide a more affordable lifestyle with strong community health networks. The University of Newcastle is particularly known for its rural and remote health focus, with clinical placements in regional areas. International students should consider proximity to placements, transport links, and lifestyle preferences. NSW has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering health courses, from certificates to doctorates. The state’s public transport system connects major campuses, but regional campuses may require a car. Also, the health sector in Australia offers strong graduate employment outcomes, with many international students finding work through the Temporary Graduate visa. However, registration with professional bodies (e.g., AHPRA) may be needed for clinical roles—this course alone may not lead to direct registration. Plan your career path early and discuss options with UoN’s career advisors.
Here are answers to common questions about the Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] at The University of Newcastle:
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Associate Degree in Health [Exit Only Award] is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.