Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 114531C) is a Diploma delivered by Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares students for entry-level nursing roles in Australia's healthcare sector. With a focus on general nursing (Field of Education 060301), the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical placements, ensuring graduates are work-ready. Acknowledge Education is a CRICOS-registered provider (00197D) with campuses in Melbourne's central business district, offering international students a quality education backed by the ESOS Act. The Diploma of Nursing includes a substantial work component of 400 hours, providing real-world experience in healthcare settings. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, and application steps to help you plan your study journey in Australia.
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The Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS 114531C) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for a career in nursing. As a Diploma under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 5), it covers core areas such as patient care, clinical assessment, medication administration, and health promotion. The course is delivered by Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd, a private provider with strong industry connections. Being CRICOS-registered ensures the course meets Australian standards for international students. 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's 2-year duration includes both classroom learning and supervised clinical placements, making it a blend of theory and practice.
This Diploma falls under Field of Education 060301 – General Nursing, which focuses on foundational nursing principles and patient care. Students learn about anatomy and physiology, infection control, nursing ethics, and communication skills. The curriculum covers clinical nursing practices across diverse healthcare settings, including aged care, acute care, and community health. At the Diploma level, students develop competency in assessing patient needs, planning and implementing care, and evaluating outcomes. The course also emphasises cultural safety and working with Indigenous communities, reflecting Australia's multicultural healthcare environment. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, the CRICOS registration guarantees a quality-assured program that meets national standards.
The Diploma of Nursing runs for 2 years (104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The program is taught in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies component). Classes are delivered at Acknowledge Education's Melbourne campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions. The structure typically includes a mix of lectures, tutorials, simulation labs, and clinical placements. Students should expect a full-time study load of approximately 20-25 hours per week in class, plus additional self-study and placement hours.
Course fees for Diploma of Nursing at Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Tuition is A$29,000 for the full program, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$1,500. The estimated total cost is A$30,500. Please note: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the Student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs roughly A$600–A$800 per year for single cover. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$500–A$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. For current fees, always check the provider's official website.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Nursing include an overall IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent English language test). Applicants typically need to have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) with passes in relevant subjects such as English and science. Some providers may require a police check, working with children check, and up-to-date immunisations. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if these requirements are not met – contact Acknowledge Education directly for options. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their Student visa. Always confirm exact requirements with the provider before applying.
This Diploma includes a mandatory work component of 40 weeks, with 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 400 hours. This supervised clinical placement provides hands-on experience in real healthcare settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health centres. Work-integrated learning is a critical part of nursing education, allowing students to apply theory in practice, develop professional skills, and build industry networks. Placements are typically arranged by the provider and may occur in shifts, including weekends and public holidays. Students are expected to adhere to workplace policies and professional standards.
The Diploma of Nursing is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC, and Level 4, 222 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Both campuses are in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, close to public transport, shops, and student amenities. Melbourne is a vibrant multicultural city with over 180,000 international students and more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia. The city offers a high quality of life but also requires budgeting for living costs – indicative weekly expenses are A$500–A$700 for rent, groceries, and transport. Victoria has several other nursing providers, but Acknowledge Education's city campuses are well-connected.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, and OSHC) is mandatory. For details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use the CRICOS register to verify that Acknowledge Education (00197D) offers the Diploma of Nursing (114531C). Check course details, fees, and entry requirements. 2) Apply directly to Acknowledge Education – submit your application with academic transcripts, English test results, and any required documents. Meet deadlines and pay the application fee if applicable. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). With the CoE, you can lodge your visa application online, including OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. For current fees, visit the provider's website.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination, hosting over 180,000 international students. It has numerous CRICOS-registered providers offering nursing courses. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, world-class dining, and extensive public transport. Living costs are moderate: rent A$400–A$600 per week for a shared apartment, groceries A$100–A$150 per week, and a myki pass for public transport about A$50 per week. Melbourne has a temperate climate with changeable weather. Consider your personal preferences: if you enjoy a bustling urban environment with easy access to nature (beaches, parks), Melbourne is an excellent choice. However, also weigh factors like proximity to family, part-time work opportunities, and the specific support services at Acknowledge Education.
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Diploma of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Acknowledge Education 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.