Graduate Certificate in Gerontological Healthcare (CRICOS course code 103900G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for health professionals looking to specialise in aged care and gerontology. As Australia's population ages, expertise in gerontological healthcare is in high demand. Murdoch University, a government-funded institution based in Perth, Western Australia, offers this program through its College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education. The course is classified under field of education 06 - Health, specifically 069999 - Health, n.e.c., at AQF Level 8 (Graduate Certificate). International students can study this program on a Student visa (Subclass 500) at the Murdoch campus in Murdoch, WA. The CRICOS registration ensures the course meets Australian quality standards for international education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you find the right fit. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, and application steps for the Graduate Certificate in Gerontological Healthcare at Murdoch University.
The Graduate Certificate in Gerontological Healthcare focuses on the study of ageing and healthcare for older adults. Students explore topics such as gerontology principles, aged care policy, chronic disease management, and evidence-based practice. While specific units are set by the university, graduates typically gain skills in assessing and managing the health needs of older people, understanding the ageing process, and applying ethical frameworks in aged care settings. The course is suitable for nurses, allied health professionals, and others seeking to enhance their expertise in gerontology. As a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8), it provides advanced knowledge and skills beyond bachelor level, often used as a stepping stone to further study or career advancement. The field of gerontological healthcare is cross-disciplinary, drawing on medicine, nursing, psychology, and social work. Students benefit from Murdoch's research strengths in health sciences and its connections with healthcare providers in Western Australia.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 26 weeks (~6 months) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments in English. The CRICOS duration is the minimum time to complete the course; actual duration may vary based on individual study pace and enrolment patterns. Murdoch University may offer part-time options, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions. The course is delivered on campus at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, WA.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) are: Tuition fee A$19,840, Non-tuition fee A$183, Estimated total A$20,023. Please note these are indicative and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students; for a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year. Living costs in Perth are estimated at around A$21,000 per year for a single student, including accommodation, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees with Murdoch University at www.murdoch.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Graduate Certificate at Murdoch University, a typical English requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (or equivalent). Academic entry requirements generally include a recognised bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field such as nursing or health sciences. Some providers may accept significant professional experience in lieu of a degree. Check Murdoch University's website for specific prerequisites. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting Murdoch's International Office for personalised advice. All applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component such as an internship or practicum. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work is not part of the course curriculum. Students seeking practical experience should explore optional volunteering or part-time work in aged care settings independently.
The course is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus at 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb of Perth, approximately 12 km south of the city centre. Perth has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The campus is accessible via public transport, including bus routes and the Mandurah railway line (Murdoch station). Living costs in Perth are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300 and public transport costs about A$50 per week. Murdoch University has a vibrant student community with over 23,000 students, including many international students.
International students studying this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, maintaining OSHC for the duration of the visa, demonstrating sufficient financial capacity, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled holidays. After course completion, graduates may apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if eligible. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Western Australia has a rapidly ageing population, creating strong demand for skilled gerontology professionals. Perth, the state capital, offers a growing healthcare sector with numerous aged care facilities, hospitals, and community health organisations. The cost of living in Perth is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for international students. Murdoch University's location provides access to clinical placements and research opportunities in aged care. Additionally, Western Australia's lifestyle, with its beaches and outdoor activities, appeals to many students. Studying in WA also allows students to experience a smaller, more close-knit international student community compared to eastern states.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Gerontological Healthcare at Murdoch University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field of education (Health), and location (WA). Verify Murdoch University's CRICOS code 00125J.
2. Apply directly to Murdoch University. Check entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Submit your application through Murdoch's online portal with supporting documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Murdoch University and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) on the Department of Home Affairs website. Prepare for the GTE assessment and arrange OSHC.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS courses and find your perfect fit.
Graduate Certificate in Gerontological Healthcare is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.