Associate Degree of Health Care (CRICOS course code 111894M) is a Associate Degree delivered by Central Queensland University over 2 years. This program sits at AQF Level 6 and focuses on the field of Health (Nursing, n.e.c.), preparing graduates for roles in healthcare support and progression to higher qualifications. Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is a government-funded institution with a strong reputation for flexible and industry-relevant programs. Offered at the Brisbane campus, this course provides a pathway into the dynamic healthcare sector. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy lists this course from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) along with over 26,000 other courses across 1,556 providers. Whether you're planning to work in aged care, community health, or continue to a bachelor's degree, this associate degree offers a solid foundation. Below, we break down the fees, entry requirements, location insights, and visa information to help you make an informed decision.
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Associate Degree of Health Care (CRICOS 111894M) is an AQF Level 6 qualification delivered by Central Queensland University. The course is classified under the field of Nursing (n.e.c.) and is designed to equip students with practical and theoretical knowledge in health care. Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is a government-owned institution with multiple campuses across Australia. This course is offered at the Brisbane campus and requires 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and there is no work component included. International students should note that this is a single qualification – it does not combine with a VET or foundation program. The CRICOS register data from April 2026 confirms this course is active and registered. As with all CRICOS-listed courses, the ESOS Act provides tuition fee protection and recourse if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you find and compare such courses across Australia.
This associate degree covers a broad range of health-related subjects typical of AQF Level 6. Students can expect to learn about human anatomy and physiology, health promotion, infection control, communication in healthcare, and foundational nursing principles. While the exact syllabus is set by Central Queensland University, graduates typically develop skills in patient care, teamwork, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based practice. This level of study is designed to prepare students for roles such as enrolled nurse (with further registration), aged care support, community health worker, or to articulate into a bachelor's degree. The field of education (060399 Nursing, n.e.c.) covers health care areas not elsewhere classified, so the course may include studies in indigenous health, chronic disease management, and mental health first aid. The knowledge gained is directly applicable to Australia's growing healthcare workforce needs, particularly in regional and aged care settings.
The course duration is 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time and delivered face-to-face at the Brisbane campus. All instruction is in English, so strong English proficiency is essential. This is a single qualification – there is no dual award or integrated foundation year. Students attend lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions. The course does not include a mandatory work placement, but students may seek part-time work independently (subject to visa conditions). The 104-week duration includes holidays and breaks as per the academic calendar. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to meet visa requirements. Central Queensland University may offer flexible study options, but the CRICOS registration specifies the standard full-time load. Always check the provider's website for the most current study mode details.
The indicative tuition fee for the Associate Degree of Health Care is A$66,900 for the full 2-year program, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$66,900. Please note these are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Central Queensland University. Fees are subject to change and may differ when you apply. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. In Brisbane, indicative weekly costs are around A$400-600 for rent, A$80-120 for groceries, and A$30-50 for public transport. Always confirm current fees with the provider. For more on OSHC, see our <a href="/visa/oshc-health-cover">OSHC guide</a>.
Entry requirements are set by Central Queensland University and vary by course level. For an associate degree, you typically need completion of Year 12 or equivalent with satisfactory grades in relevant subjects (e.g., English, sciences). English language proficiency is required; most universities accept IELTS 5.5-7.0 overall (or equivalent). Specific scores for this course may differ – check the provider's website. If you don't meet academic prerequisites, some universities offer foundation or pathway programs. However, this course does not include foundation studies as per CRICOS data. Always refer to the official provider page for exact requirements. For visa purposes, you must also demonstrate financial capacity. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for immigration advice.
This course has no mandatory work component. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component' for this program. While you are not required to undertake a work placement as part of your study, you may still engage in part-time work during your stay in Australia. Student visa (Subclass 500) holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. However, work must not interfere with your study schedule. If you are seeking a course with a built-in internship or clinical placement, you may need to consider other programs. Always check the provider's course handbook for any optional work opportunities or volunteering options that may enhance your learning. Remember, the ESOS Act ensures your education is the priority.
This course is delivered at the Brisbane campus of Central Queensland University (CQU). Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a vibrant city with a large international student population. The city is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living in Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, affordable rent compared to Sydney or Melbourne (indicative weekly rent A$350-500 for a shared apartment), and excellent public transport including buses, trains, and ferries. The CQU Brisbane campus is well-connected, making it easy to commute from suburbs like South Brisbane, Fortitude Valley, or Woolloongabba. Brisbane's healthcare sector is growing, with major hospitals and aged care facilities providing potential part-time work opportunities. For more on studying health in Brisbane, see our <a href="/study/health/brisbane">health programs in Brisbane guide</a>.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements: you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Central Queensland University, meet genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The current cost of living requirement is A$21,041 per year (as of 2025). For detailed guidance, see our <a href="/visa/student-visa-subclass-500">student visa page</a>. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest rules. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised help.
Applying for the Associate Degree of Health Care at Central Queensland University is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are registered on CRICOS. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, provide English test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and meet application deadlines. Central Queensland University accepts online applications through their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, CQU will issue a CoE. With this, you can apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For more details, visit our <a href="/visa/student-visa-subclass-500">student visa guide</a>.
Brisbane is an excellent choice for studying health care. The city has a strong healthcare infrastructure with major hospitals, research institutes, and community health centers. International students benefit from a supportive multicultural environment and affordable living costs relative to other Australian capitals. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in Brisbane, you have many options for health-related programs. The climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, and public transport is student-friendly with discounts. However, consider that some clinical placements may require travel to regional areas. HeadStart Academy can help you compare providers and courses in Brisbane. For a broader view, see our <a href="/states/qld">Queensland study guide</a> and <a href="/study/associate-degree/qld">associate degree programs in Queensland</a>.
Here are answers to common questions about this course.
Ready to apply? Check the current entry requirements and fees on Central Queensland University's website, or use HeadStart Academy to explore more health care courses.
Associate Degree of Health Care 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.