Master of Nursing Science (CRICOS course code 115558F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Griffith University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 9 program is designed for students who hold a prior degree in a relevant field and wish to transition into nursing. Accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), this course prepares graduates for registration as a registered nurse in Australia. Delivered at Griffith University's Nathan campus in Brisbane South, Queensland, the course combines theoretical learning with clinical placements. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00233E), international students can enrol and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Griffith University is a government-funded institution with a strong reputation in health sciences. The course falls under the field of education 060399 (Nursing, n.e.c.), providing comprehensive training in nursing science. With an indicative tuition fee of A$58,500, this program represents a significant investment in your future. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Master of Nursing Science (CRICOS course code 115558F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Griffith University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). The course is classified under field of education 060399 (Nursing, n.e.c.) and is offered at AQF Level 9. Griffith University, with CRICOS provider code 00233E, is a government-funded university located in Queensland. This course is intended for graduates from non-nursing backgrounds who meet prerequisite requirements, typically including a completed bachelor degree in any discipline with a minimum GPA. The program integrates nursing theory with clinical practice, covering areas such as health assessment, pharmacology, chronic care, and leadership. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The course does not include a mandatory work component, but clinical placements are integral. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets standards set by the Australian Government for international student enrolment.
The Master of Nursing Science is a comprehensive program that covers the field of nursing, specifically under field 060399. Students typically learn advanced nursing concepts, evidence-based practice, patient-centred care, and clinical reasoning. The curriculum includes subjects such as health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, mental health nursing, chronic care, and leadership in nursing. At the Masters level, students also develop research skills and critical thinking necessary for complex healthcare environments. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, general guidance suggests graduates acquire competencies to work as registered nurses in various settings, including hospitals, community health, and aged care. The course is designed to meet the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) standards, ensuring graduates are job-ready. The duration of 1.5 years intensive study combines online and face-to-face learning, with multiple entry points per year. This program is ideal for those seeking a career change into nursing.
The Master of Nursing Science has a CRICOS-registered duration of 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual award). No foundation studies are integrated. Students are expected to attend classes at Griffith University's Nathan campus, with some components delivered online. The intensive nature requires a commitment of around 40 hours per week including clinical placements. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions. The course is structured to be completed over three semesters, with intakes typically in February and July. Flexibility may be offered for part-time study, but visa requirements usually necessitate full-time enrolment. Always confirm the latest study mode options on Griffith University's official website.
Indicative tuition fees for the Master of Nursing Science are A$58,500 (total course fee). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,432, bringing the estimated total to A$59,932. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Griffith University. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$20,000 per year for a single student), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). We strongly recommend checking the latest fee schedule on Griffith University's fee website before applying. Fee payments are typically made per semester. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only and does not guarantee fee amounts. International students should budget for annual increases and currency fluctuations.
Entry into the Master of Nursing Science requires a completed bachelor degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, with a minimum GPA (usually 4.0 on a 7.0 scale). Applicants must meet English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band less than 7.0 for some components). Prior study in human anatomy, physiology, or health sciences is often recommended. Some applicants may need to complete preparatory courses. This course does not offer a foundation or pathway program—direct entry is based on academic and English requirements. Griffith University may also require a personal statement, references, or an interview. International students should ensure their qualifications are assessed as equivalent to Australian standards. For specific prerequisites, refer to Griffith University's admission pages. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the provider or a registered migration agent for personalised guidance.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, clinical placements are an essential part of the curriculum and are arranged by Griffith University in healthcare settings. These placements are not considered a 'work component' in the CRICOS definition but are required for accreditation. Students will complete a minimum of 800 hours of supervised clinical practice. Placement schedules may require students to be available during standard business hours. International students should note that placements do not count towards the 48-hours-per-fortnight work limit under their Student visa, but paid work remains limited. Clinical placements provide valuable hands-on experience and are integral to meeting NMBA registration requirements.
This course is delivered at Griffith University's Nathan campus, located in Brisbane South, Queensland (postcode 4111). Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, with a population of over 2.5 million people including a large international student community. The Nathan campus is well-connected by public transport, with buses from the city and South Bank. Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly costs: rent A$200-350, groceries A$70-120, transport A$30-50. The city is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Griffith University is one of Australia's leading universities, ranked in the top 300 globally. Nathan campus provides modern facilities including simulation labs and libraries. Students enjoy access to Brisbane's healthcare networks for clinical placements.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and valid OSHC. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating an intention to stay temporarily for study. Evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required. The current visa application charge is A$1,600. OSHC costs approximately A$600-1000 per year depending on cover. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund protections. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Filter by course level (Masters Degree (Coursework)), field (Health > Nursing), and location (Queensland) on HeadStart Academy. Confirm that Griffith University (CRICOS 00233E) offers this course. 2. **Apply directly to Griffith University:** Visit the university's website to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with academic transcripts, English test results, and any supporting documents. Applications are typically processed within 4-6 weeks. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500):** Once accepted, Griffith University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. Visa processing times vary; apply early. For detailed guidance, refer to our Student visa page.
Brisbane offers a vibrant lifestyle with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a growing healthcare sector, with major hospitals like Royal Brisbane and Princess Alexandra nearby. International students benefit from a supportive community, with over 100,000 international students in the city. Public transport is affordable, and the South Bank cultural precinct is popular. Brisbane's climate is warm year-round, perfect for outdoor activities. However, consider that clinical placement locations may require travel. Nathan campus is in a suburban setting, with limited nightlife compared to the city centre. Overall, Brisbane is an excellent choice for nursing students seeking a balanced study-life environment.
Start your journey to becoming a registered nurse in Australia. Check your eligibility for Master of Nursing Science at Griffith University today.
Master of Nursing Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith 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.