Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 108324E) is a Diploma delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks). This CRICOS-registered course (02934D) prepares international students for a rewarding career in general nursing (Field 060301). With delivery locations in Adelaide and North Melbourne, the program combines theoretical learning with 400 hours of clinical placement, giving you hands-on experience in Australian healthcare settings. HeadStart Academy provides this course detail page as a free resource — data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and includes indicative fees, entry requirements, and student visa guidance. Whether you're planning to study in South Australia or Victoria, understanding the CRICOS registration ensures you choose a legitimate provider. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered and protected under the ESOS Act. Use this page to compare options and take the first step toward your nursing career in Australia.
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Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 108324E) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02934D). The course falls under Field 06 – Health (0603 Nursing, 060301 General Nursing) and carries the VET national code HLT54121. The program runs for 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. A mandatory work component of 10 weeks (40 hours per week, ~400 total hours) provides clinical placement experience. This course is designed to equip graduates with the skills to work as enrolled nurses in hospitals, aged care, and community health settings. Southern Cross Education Institute is a private provider with campuses in Adelaide (SA) and North Melbourne (VIC). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is one of many in the health field.
As a Diploma of Nursing student, you'll study core subjects in general nursing, including anatomy and physiology, infection control, pharmacology, mental health, and aged care. The curriculum follows the HLT54121 training package and aligns with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia's standards for enrolled nurses. You'll learn to provide patient-centred care, administer medications, assist with clinical procedures, and collaborate with healthcare teams. The course combines classroom theory, simulation labs, and supervised clinical placements. While specific syllabus details are set by Southern Cross Education Institute, graduates typically develop skills in patient assessment, wound care, and health promotion. This program is an excellent pathway to further study in nursing (e.g., Bachelor of Nursing) or direct entry into the workforce as a Division 2 Registered Nurse (Enrolled) in Australia.
The Diploma of Nursing is delivered over 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register (85 weeks exactly). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. Students are expected to attend classes and complete clinical placements. Study mode is typically full-time on-campus, but check with Southern Cross Education Institute for any blended options. The duration includes both classroom and work-integrated learning components. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500).
Indicative fees for Diploma of Nursing at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd are as follows: Tuition fee A$32,000, Non-tuition fee A$7,250, estimated total A$39,250. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Southern Cross Education Institute at www.scei.com.au. The non-tuition fee may include enrolment, materials, and resource charges. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. For example, living costs in Adelaide are around A$450–600 per week (rent, groceries, transport) and in Melbourne around A$500–700 per week. Use the Visa Cost Estimator on the Department of Home Affairs website for a full budget.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Nursing generally include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Evidence of English language proficiency is required — typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5). Some providers may accept equivalent tests like PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. You must also meet any prerequisite subjects, such as mathematics and science. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you don't meet direct entry — contact Southern Cross Education Institute directly for details. Note that meeting published entry requirements does not guarantee admission; providers assess each application holistically. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most current entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (40 hours per week, approximately 400 total hours). This is typically an industry placement, clinical placement, or internship in a real healthcare setting. Students gain supervised practical experience in hospitals, aged care facilities, or community health centres. The placement allows you to apply theoretical knowledge, develop clinical skills, and understand Australian work culture. It is a key part of the HLT54121 training package and often required for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Your provider will arrange placement locations and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety standards.
Diploma of Nursing (108324E) is delivered at two campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide SA 5000, and 155-161 Boundary Road, North Melbourne VIC 3051. Adelaide, South Australia's capital, has a low cost of living and a growing international student community. The Grote Street campus is near Adelaide's central market and accessible via public transport. North Melbourne is close to Melbourne's CBD, with plenty of student amenities. Both locations provide modern classrooms and simulation labs. Adelaide has around 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering nursing courses, while Melbourne has over 100. Choosing between the two depends on your preference for city size, climate, and lifestyle.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must provide evidence of enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient funds for fees and living costs, and meet English language and health requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa is valid for the course duration plus additional time. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Nursing at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Nursing), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (02934D) and the course code (108324E) is current. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit Southern Cross Education Institute's website (www.scei.com.au) to review entry requirements, English tests accepted, application deadlines, and submit your application with supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use it to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, financial capacity, and OSHC requirements.
Ready to begin your nursing journey? Explore more health courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Southern Cross Education Institute directly to apply.
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Diploma of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd. 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.