Graduate Certificate in Nursing (CRICOS course code 115823E) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Adelaide University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their clinical expertise or transition into leadership roles within the healthcare sector. As a CRICOS-registered course (Adelaide University CRICOS 04249J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, offers a affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit around $250. The city is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering health-related courses, making it a vibrant study destination. HeadStart Academy sources its data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers. All institutions listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections apply. Note: Fees are indicative and subject to change; always confirm with Adelaide University.
Graduate Certificate in Nursing (CRICOS course code 115823E) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) offered by Adelaide University, a government-funded institution. The course falls under the field of education of 060300 – Nursing, n.f.d. (broad field 06 – Health). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English. This course does not include a mandatory work component. According to the CRICOS register, the course duration is 26 weeks (approximately 6 months). Indicative tuition fees are A$20,000, with no non-tuition fees listed. However, students must budget for OSHC, living costs, and visa application fees separately. Adelaide University is a well-established provider with a strong reputation in health education, offering state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical placements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always visit the provider's official website.
While specific syllabus details are provided by Adelaide University, a Graduate Certificate in Nursing at this level typically covers advanced nursing practice, evidence-based care, clinical leadership, and specialised health assessment. Students develop skills to manage complex patient situations, interpret research findings, and lead quality improvement initiatives. The program is designed for registered nurses who already hold a Bachelor of Nursing (or equivalent) and seek to deepen their knowledge in a concentrated area. Adelaide University may offer streams in areas like acute care, aged care, or mental health nursing. Graduates are prepared for roles such as clinical nurse specialists, nurse educators, or unit managers. The course aligns with industry standards and may contribute to continuing professional development requirements set by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for nurses.
The CRICOS register lists the course duration as 26 weeks (approximately 6 months). This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or packaged course. Part-time study options may be available, but international students must maintain a full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions. Adelaide University typically offers this program on-campus at its Adelaide City Campus, with access to modern facilities including nursing simulation labs and libraries. The structured 26-week timeline allows for intensive learning, often combining theoretical coursework with practical simulations. Students should expect a workload of around 20-30 hours per week including contact hours and self-study. Language support services may be available for non-native English speakers.
Indicative tuition fees for the Graduate Certificate in Nursing at Adelaide University are A$20,000 for the full 26-week program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning there are no compulsory additional charges from the institution for materials or services. The estimated total cost is therefore A$20,000. However, this does NOT include: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600+ per year, living costs (accommodation, food, transport) which in Adelaide average around A$20,000–25,000 annually, and the Student visa application fee (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm with Adelaide University before applying. For a breakdown, see the table below.
Entry requirements are set by Adelaide University and typically include: a Bachelor of Nursing (or equivalent) with registration as a registered nurse in Australia or overseas; English language proficiency – for this level, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent is common, though requirements may range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 for similar courses; and academic transcripts demonstrating prior study in nursing. Some providers may require relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs are not attached to this Graduate Certificate level, but Adelaide University may offer bridging courses. Since HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent, we recommend contacting the provider directly or consulting the Department of Home Affairs for visa-specific requirements.
This course has no mandatory work component. The CRICOS register explicitly states 'No work component' for Graduate Certificate in Nursing (115823E). However, students are encouraged to engage in clinical placements or internships voluntarily to enhance their practical skills. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work must not interfere with course progress. It is the student's responsibility to ensure compliance with visa work restrictions.
The sole delivery location for this course is Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, known for its affordable living and vibrant culture. The city has a population of over 1.3 million, with a significant international student community. Public transport includes buses, trams, and trains, with student concession cards available. The Adelaide City Campus is centrally located near Rundle Mall, the Adelaide Central Market, and major hospitals like the Royal Adelaide Hospital. For students, average living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne: weekly rent for a shared house is around $180–$250, groceries $80–$120, and public transport $40–$50 with concession. Adelaide University is one of over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in the city, offering a supportive environment for international students.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, evidence of financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the course. On a Subclass 500 visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The course must be CRICOS-registered (as it is) to be eligible. After graduation, students may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Nursing at Adelaide University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter courses by level (Graduate Certificate), field (Nursing), and location (Adelaide). Verify that Adelaide University is CRICOS-registered (04249J) and the course is listed (115823E).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Adelaide University's international student portal. Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and any professional registration documents. Note application deadlines – typically intakes in February and July.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: After acceptance, Adelaide University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Adelaide offers a unique blend of high-quality education and affordable living. Compared to Sydney or Melbourne, you can save up to 30% on rent and daily expenses. The city is home to leading health institutions like the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre, providing networking opportunities. However, consider that Adelaide has fewer employers than larger cities, so post-study job prospects may differ. The Graduate Certificate is a stepping stone to Master's level study if you wish to specialise further. Also, check if Adelaide University's course aligns with your career goals – for example, if you aim to become a nurse practitioner, you may need a Master's. Always review CRICOS registration and ESOS protections – your fees are protected under the Tuition Protection Service if the provider closes.
Ready to start your journey? Explore our directory of CRICOS-registered courses or apply directly to Adelaide University today.
Graduate Certificate in Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide 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.