Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 110159F) is a Diploma delivered by Central Queensland University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This CRICOS-registered course (AQF Level 5) falls under the field of Nursing and is designed to prepare international students for a career as an Enrolled Nurse in Australia. With a mandatory work component of 400 hours, students gain practical experience in clinical settings. The indicative total cost is A$29,300, not including OSHC, living expenses, or visa fees. The course is offered at the Rockhampton campus in Queensland. As with all CRICOS courses, it meets Australian quality standards and is covered by ESOS Act protections. Central Queensland University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in regional Australia. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification, with no dual or foundation options. International students must meet English language requirements (IELTS 5.5–6.0) and hold a valid Student visa. This page provides an overview of fees, entry requirements, and the application process to help you make an informed decision.
Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS 110159F) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) in the field of Nursing, delivered by Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C). This course is designed to equip international students with the foundational knowledge and clinical skills required for entry-level nursing roles in Australia. Over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks), students will engage in theoretical learning and practical placements, including a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (400 hours) to gain hands-on experience. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets strict Australian quality standards for international education. Graduates may be eligible to apply for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as an Enrolled Nurse (EN), subject to meeting additional requirements. The course is delivered in English, with a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Central Queensland University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in regional Australia, particularly in health and nursing education.
This Diploma falls under the field of education '06 Health' with specific focus on Nursing (060300). While the exact syllabus is set by Central Queensland University, typical Diploma of Nursing programs in Australia cover areas such as anatomy and physiology, infection control, medication administration, patient assessment, and aged care. Students also develop communication skills for healthcare settings and learn about legal and ethical responsibilities. The course includes a significant practical component, with 10 weeks of work-integrated learning in clinical environments like hospitals or aged care facilities. This hands-on experience is essential for building competencies required for the Enrolled Nurse role. The VET national code for this course is HLT54121. Graduates will be prepared to work under the supervision of Registered Nurses in various healthcare settings. The course aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5, indicating a higher level of skill and knowledge than Certificate IV. Students can expect a balanced mix of classroom instruction, online learning, and supervised clinical placement.
The Diploma of Nursing is offered as a full-time course over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks), as registered on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Central Queensland University may offer various study modes, but for international students, on-campus attendance is typically required, especially for practical components. The course is structured in line with the Australian education system, with two semesters per year or accelerated options. The 78-week duration includes both teaching periods and scheduled breaks. Students should plan for intensive study periods during clinical placements. The course is delivered across one location: Canning Street, Rockhampton in Queensland. This regional campus provides a supportive learning environment with smaller class sizes compared to metropolitan universities. Students will have access to simulation labs and library resources. The total duration also accounts for the 10-week work component, which is integrated into the program.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$27,900, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,400, bringing the estimated total to A$29,300. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. You should always confirm current fees with Central Queensland University before applying. Please note that this estimate does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For OSHC, you can expect to pay around A$600–$1,000 per year depending on your provider and coverage. Living costs in Rockhampton are generally lower than in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne; weekly rent may range from A$150–$250, groceries A$60–$100, and public transport A$30–$50. These are indicative only.
For international students, the minimum English proficiency requirement is typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior study in a health-related field or completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) is generally expected. Some providers may also require a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance or work experience. Central Queensland University may have specific prerequisites, such as a satisfactory interview or a valid Working with Children Check. There are no foundation studies pathways included in this specific course, but the provider may offer alternative entry pathways. Always check the provider's website for detailed entry criteria. If you do not meet the English requirements, you may consider enrolling in an ELICOS program before starting the Diploma.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks, totalling approximately 400 hours (40 hours per week). This is a work-integrated learning (WIL) placement, typically in a clinical setting such as a hospital, aged care facility, or community health centre. The placement is supervised and forms part of the course assessment. It provides valuable practical experience and is essential for meeting the requirements for Enrolled Nurse registration. Students will gain exposure to real patient care under the guidance of Registered Nurses. The placement may be scheduled in blocks across the duration of the course. You must have a valid police check and immunisations before commencing placement. This work component is an integral part of the curriculum and cannot be waived.
This course is delivered at the Canning Street campus in Rockhampton, Queensland. Rockhampton is a major regional city in Central Queensland, with a population of approximately 80,000. It is known as the 'Beef Capital of Australia' and has a growing student population, with several CRICOS-registered providers offering courses. The cost of living is relatively affordable, with typical weekly rent between A$150–$250. The campus is accessible via local buses and is close to the Rockhampton city centre. Rockhampton has a subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters. International students will find a welcoming community and opportunities to explore the nearby Great Barrier Reef and national parks. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in Rockhampton, offering a range of courses. However, this specific Diploma of Nursing is only offered at this location by Central Queensland University.
International students studying this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course to be eligible. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Visa applications require evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion is also assessed. Note that HeadStart Academy does not provide visa advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. Remember that all CRICOS-registered providers must comply with the ESOS Act, which protects your rights as an international student.
Rockhampton offers a unique study environment for nursing students. As a regional city, it provides a slower pace of life and lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The community is friendly and supportive, and the region has a high demand for healthcare professionals, offering potential part-time work opportunities in aged care and health services. The campus of Central Queensland University is modern and well-equipped. However, you should consider the climate and the need for travel to clinical placements, which may require a vehicle. With several CRICOS-registered providers in the city, you have options. Rockhampton is ideal if you prefer a close-knit campus environment and want to experience regional Australia. But ensure you research accommodation and transport options before committing.
Applying for the Diploma of Nursing at Central Queensland University is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free resources to find providers like Central Queensland University offering this course. Verify the CRICOS code (110159F) and ensure the provider's registration is current.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Central Queensland University's website (www.cqu.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents (academic transcripts, English test results, and passport copy). Some providers may require a separate application for the nursing placement.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC and financial capacity. Remember, you cannot start the course until you have both a CoE and a valid visa.
Ready to take the next step? Research more nursing courses or contact Central Queensland University directly.
Diploma of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland 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.