Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 112865H) is a Diploma delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares graduates for entry-level nursing roles under the supervision of registered nurses. Delivered in Bruce, ACT, the course includes a substantial work component of approximately 400 hours, ensuring students gain practical, hands-on experience. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00001K), international students can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study nursing in Australia's capital city. Canberra is home to over 26,000 international students from more than 80 countries, studying across several CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a high quality of life, with median rents around $350-450 per week for a one-bedroom unit, and convenient public transport to the Bruce campus via bus routes. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
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Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 112865H) is a Diploma delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is classified under Field of Education 06 - Health, specifically 0603 - Nursing (General Nursing, 060301). It is a VET course with national code HLT54121. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is a government-owned TAFE institute, registered since 1985. The course is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for graduates to practice as enrolled nurses in Australia, subject to registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). All CRICOS-registered courses must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring education quality and student protections.
This Diploma focuses on general nursing, covering areas such as anatomy and physiology, infection control, medication administration, wound care, and patient assessment. Students learn to provide nursing care across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health. The curriculum aligns with the Enrolled Nurse standards for practice. While specific subjects are set by the institute, typical topics include health promotion, legal and ethical nursing practice, and communication in healthcare. Graduates are prepared to take the AHPRA exam for registration as an Enrolled Nurse in Australia.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and not a foundation program. Delivery is full-time, typically requiring around 20-25 hours per week of classes and study. Students should expect a combination of classroom learning, simulated labs, and practical placements.
Indicative tuition fee: A$29,820. Non-tuition fees (administration, materials, etc.): A$6,600. Estimated total: A$36,420. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Canberra Institute of Technology. They are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately $600-1,000 per year depending on cover level; living costs – about $25,000 per year for accommodation, food, and transport; and the student visa application charge (currently $710). Always confirm current fees with the provider directly on their website: https://international.cit.edu.au/.
International students must meet English language proficiency: IELTS overall 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent). Typically, completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is expected. Some providers also require prerequisite subjects in science or mathematics. For nursing, additional requirements may include a Working with Children Check, vaccination status, and a police clearance. CIT may have specific academic entry criteria; refer to their website. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course but may be available for students who do not meet direct entry – check with CIT.
Yes, the course includes a mandatory work component of 54 weeks at 7.4 hours per week, totaling approximately 400 hours. This is a supervised clinical placement in healthcare settings such as hospitals or aged care facilities. Placements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real patient care scenarios under guidance. Students are typically required to complete shifts that may include weekends or nights. This practical experience is integral to meeting the professional standards for enrolled nursing.
Canberra Institute of Technology - Vowels Crescent, BRUCE — BRUCE, ACT. The campus is located in the suburb of Bruce, about 10 km north-west of Canberra City Centre. It is well-served by public bus routes, and the area has student accommodation options. Canberra has a relatively low unemployment rate and a strong health sector, with major hospitals like Canberra Hospital and Calvary Hospital. Living costs in Canberra are moderate, with weekly rent for a shared room around $200-300. The city is home to approximately 26,000 international students across multiple CRICOS-registered providers.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Canberra Institute of Technology. Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfy attendance and academic progress, hold OSHC, and work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session (unlimited during scheduled holidays). You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Financial capacity: evidence of funds for tuition, living costs, and dependents if applicable. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Diploma of Nursing at Canberra Institute of Technology:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter nursing courses in ACT. Verify CIT’s registration (CRICOS 00001K) and ensure the course (112865H) is current. 2. Apply directly to CIT – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any additional documents required (e.g., police check, health requirements). Submit your application through CIT International’s website (https://international.cit.edu.au/). Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa – If accepted, CIT will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use that to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents. Wait for visa grant before traveling.
Canberra, the capital of Australia, offers a quieter, purpose-planned city environment with a strong focus on education and government jobs. It has a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging $400-500 for a one-bedroom apartment. The city has excellent public transport, including buses and light rail. International students enjoy a multicultural community and many support services. However, winter temperatures can drop to 0°C. If you prefer a smaller city with fewer distractions and a strong public health sector for placements, Canberra could be an ideal choice.
Nursing is a regulated profession in Australia. Graduates must apply for registration with AHPRA after completing a CRICOS-registered nursing qualification. English proficiency requirements for registration may be higher (IELTS 7.0) than those for entry. The course includes clinical placements which may require shift work. Demand for Enrolled Nurses is high, with good job prospects. However, the study involves rigorous academic and practical demands. Ensure you have a genuine interest in healthcare and the resilience to complete the program.
Ready to start your nursing career in Australia? Explore Diploma of Nursing at Canberra Institute of Technology and apply today.
Diploma of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Canberra Institute of Technology. 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.