Master of Nursing (CRICOS course code 096859K) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Edith Cowan University over 2 years. This program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their clinical leadership, research, and evidence-based practice skills. Delivered at ECU’s Joondalup Campus in Western Australia, the course builds on a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00279B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With a growing demand for qualified nurses across Australia, this degree opens doors to senior roles in healthcare. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—no commissions, just reliable data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you're an Australian resident or an international student, this page covers everything you need to know about fees, entry requirements, and the student visa process.
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Master of Nursing (CRICOS course code 096859K) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, offered by Edith Cowan University (ECU), a government-owned university based in Perth, Western Australia. The course is registered under field of education 060300 – Nursing, n.f.d., and is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) full-time. Language of instruction is English, and there is no work component or dual qualification attached. ECU is one of Australia's leading nursing schools, with state-of-the-art simulation facilities. This degree is ideal for registered nurses aiming to specialise in areas such as clinical nursing, nursing management, or education. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register, updated April 2026. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is among the nursing specialisations available at postgraduate level.
The Master of Nursing focuses on advanced nursing practice, research methods, and leadership in healthcare. Students typically explore subjects such as clinical decision-making, health policy, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement. Graduates are prepared for roles as clinical nurse specialists, nurse educators, or managers in hospitals, community health, and aged care. While the exact syllabus is set by Edith Cowan University, the field of education (060300) encompasses broad nursing competencies. This level of study (Masters Coursework) emphasises application of theory to real-world settings, critical analysis, and professional development. For international students, this qualification is recognised globally and can lead to registration pathways in Australia via AHPRA, subject to meeting English and competency standards.
The Master of Nursing is a 2-year full-time program, corresponding to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual awards). While the CRICOS record does not specify part-time options, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. Study modes may include on-campus lectures, practical simulations, and clinical placements (though placements are not listed as a work component). ECU's Joondalup Campus offers modern learning environments with access to simulation labs and libraries. The course is delivered face-to-face, with potential online components as per university policy.
Indicative tuition fee: A$85,600 for the entire course (as per CRICOS register April 2026). Non-tuition fees: A$0 (CRICOS may not capture all extras; always confirm with ECU). Estimated total: A$85,600. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For international students in Perth, indicative weekly living costs are approximately A$400–600 for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$40–60 for public transport. Fees are set by Edith Cowan University and subject to change—always check the official website (www.ecu.edu.au) for current fees. HeadStart Academy advises budgeting an additional A$20,000–A$30,000 per year for living expenses and health cover.
General entry requirements for Master of Nursing include a recognised bachelor's degree in nursing and current registration as a nurse (or eligibility). English language proficiency: IELTS overall 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.5 or 7.0 depending on component; check ECU for exact bands). Prior study in health or nursing is expected—students without a nursing background may need a bridging program. Foundation or pathway options are not specified for this course; however, ECU offers pathway programs for some postgraduate degrees. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion as part of their visa application. We recommend consulting ECU's admissions page or a registered migration agent for personalised advice. Note: These are general guidelines—always verify with the provider.
This course has no mandated work component as per the CRICOS register. However, nursing degrees often include clinical placements or practicums as part of the curriculum—ECU may integrate practical experiences. Students should confirm with the university whether placements are a requirement for completion. Even without a formal work component, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks under their Student Visa (Subclass 500). This can help offset living costs. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring education quality and student support.
The Master of Nursing is delivered at ECU Joondalup Campus, located in Joondalup, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Joondalup is a major northern hub with a large student population. Perth is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. The campus is well-served by public transport including the Joondalup railway line and bus routes. Living in Perth offers a relaxed lifestyle with a Mediterranean climate. Indicative rental costs in Joondalup are around A$250–A$400 per week for a share house or studio. Perth is known for its affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive destination for international students.
International students must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from ECU, proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5–7.0), valid OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of stay, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (approx A$21,041 per year from October 2023), and a genuine intention to stay temporarily (GTE criterion). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited during scheduled holidays. Dependants may accompany the student. All visa conditions are subject to change—check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy cannot provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for your specific situation.
Follow this 3-step process to apply for Master of Nursing at Edith Cowan University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses. Filter by Masters Degree (Coursework) and field of education (060300). Confirm ECU's CRICOS code (00279B) and course code (096859K).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit ECU's website (www.ecu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, submit your application, and provide supporting documents (transcripts, English test results, nursing registration). Deadlines vary—apply early.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ECU issues your CoE, lodge your visa application online. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Then prepare for your journey to Western Australia!
Western Australia offers a unique environment for nursing students. Perth has a growing healthcare sector with major hospitals and research institutes. The cost of living is lower than in eastern states, and the lifestyle balances study with outdoor activities. ECU Joondalup Campus is in a purpose-built precinct with modern facilities. For nursing, WA has a strong demand for registered nurses, especially in rural and remote areas, which can lead to post-study work opportunities. However, consider that Perth is isolated—travel to other Australian cities requires flights. Also, the climate is hot and dry in summer. Overall, if you prefer a quieter, more affordable city with excellent nursing education, WA is a strong choice.
Ready to advance your nursing career? Use our 3-step apply guide above to start your journey with Edith Cowan University.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in Western Australia →
Master of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan 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.