Graduate Diploma in Nursing (CRICOS course code 115875D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Adelaide University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification in the field of Health (Nursing) is designed for graduates seeking to advance their nursing knowledge and skills. Adelaide University is a CRICOS-registered provider (04249J) and a government university, offering a robust pathway for international students. As part of Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 26,000 courses, this program is fully registered and protects your rights under the ESOS Act. Located in Adelaide, South Australia, the course combines theoretical study with a work component, preparing you for roles in healthcare settings. HeadStart Academy presents this page as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), to help you make informed decisions.
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Graduate Diploma in Nursing (CRICOS course code 115875D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Adelaide University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program falls under Field of Education 060300 - Nursing, n.f.d., and is taught entirely in English. As a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies, it is ideal for those who already hold a bachelor's degree in a related field. The course includes a work-integrated learning component of 1 week (approximately 20 total hours), providing practical experience in a healthcare setting. Adelaide University, a government institution with CRICOS code 04249J, is located in Adelaide, South Australia, a city with a strong student community and affordable living costs. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
The Graduate Diploma in Nursing builds on existing knowledge in health and nursing, focusing on advanced clinical skills, evidence-based practice, and leadership in nursing. While specific syllabi are set by Adelaide University, graduates typically gain expertise in patient care management, health assessment, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This level of study (AQF Level 8) prepares students for roles such as clinical nurse specialist or nursing educator. The field of Nursing (0603) is a high-demand area in Australia, with numerous opportunities in hospitals, community health, and aged care. Adelaide has several major healthcare facilities, providing a rich environment for practical learning.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register), delivered full-time in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award. Students should expect a combination of classroom learning, simulation labs, and the 1-week work component. Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus is easily accessible via public transport, including buses and trams. Adelaide has over 25 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse student population. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent (shared) of A$200–A$300, groceries A$80–A$120, and transport A$30–A$50.
Indicative fees set by Adelaide University are as follows: tuition A$40,000, non-tuition fees A$41, for an estimated total of A$40,041. Please note these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm fees directly with Adelaide University before applying. ESOS Act protections ensure your fees are safeguarded if the provider fails to deliver the course.
General entry guidance for this Graduate Diploma requires a prior bachelor's degree in nursing or a related health field. English language proficiency is expected at IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some applicants may need to meet specific prerequisite subjects. Foundation or pathway options may be available through Adelaide University's partner colleges—consult the provider for details. Note: Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa application.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 1 week, totalling approximately 20 hours. This is a work-integrated learning experience, typically a supervised clinical placement in a hospital or community health setting. It provides practical application of nursing skills under professional guidance. Such placements are integral to many health courses and help students meet professional registration requirements (if applicable). Adelaide University coordinates placement logistics, but students may need to meet additional requirements like immunisations or police checks.
The Graduate Diploma in Nursing is delivered at Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of 1.3 million and a vibrant student scene. The city is known for its affordable living, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–A$450. Public transport is efficient, with a free tram zone in the city centre. Adelaide has over 25 CRICOS-registered providers, including several universities and VET institutions. The campus is well-connected to hospitals and clinics for the work component.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Adelaide University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma in Nursing at Adelaide University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Nursing), and location (Adelaide). Compare providers and ensure CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to Adelaide University: Review entry requirements, prepare documents (transcripts, English test scores), and submit your application through the university's online portal. Deadlines vary—check ahead. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Adelaide University will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs.
Adelaide offers a balanced lifestyle with lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong healthcare sector, with major hospitals like Royal Adelaide Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre, offering networking and placement opportunities. The student population is diverse, with over 25 CRICOS providers. Public transport, including buses and trams, makes commuting easy. Consider your preferences for city size, climate, and cultural activities. Adelaide's festivals and food scene are notable. If you value affordability and a close-knit student community, Adelaide is an excellent choice.
All CRICOS-registered providers must comply with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which safeguards international students. Protections include: tuition fee protection if the provider closes, access to a complaints process, and requirement to provide quality education. Adelaide University is a public institution with a strong compliance record. You can verify its registration on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. These protections apply to every CRICOS-registered course, giving you peace of mind.
Ready to start your nursing career? Apply now or explore more Graduate Diploma courses in South Australia.
Graduate Diploma 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.