Master of Nursing Practice (Preregistration) (CRICOS course code 117406F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of New England over 2 years 6 months (~131 weeks). This course is designed for graduates from non-nursing backgrounds who wish to become a registered nurse in Australia. It combines theoretical learning with extensive clinical placements, preparing students for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). As a HeadStart Academy resource, we confirm that University of New England (CRICOS 00003G) is a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider. The indicative tuition fee is A$85,190, with non-tuition fees of A$5,000, totalling an estimated A$90,190. The course includes a mandatory 20-week full-time work component, totalling approximately 800 hours of clinical placement. With multiple delivery locations across Parramatta and Armidale in New South Wales, students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle. Whether you're an international student looking to study nursing in Australia or a career changer, this page provides everything you need to know about this CRICOS-registered course.
This course falls under the field of education 060301 - General Nursing (Health). At Masters Degree (Coursework) level (AQF Level 9), students acquire advanced knowledge and skills in nursing practice, including patient assessment, care planning, pharmacology, and clinical decision-making. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice with hands-on clinical experience, covering areas such as acute care, mental health, community health, and aged care. Graduates are prepared for general registration as a registered nurse, able to work across a variety of healthcare settings. The program emphasises cultural competence, ethical practice, and interprofessional collaboration. As a CRICOS-registered course (117406F), international students can be assured of its quality and compliance with Australian education standards under the ESOS Act.
The Master of Nursing Practice (Preregistration) is delivered over 2 years 6 months (~131 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program is typically offered in a full-time mode, with a combination of online theory and face-to-face clinical placements. Students should expect a rigorous schedule with both academic coursework and supervised clinical hours. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$85,190, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$5,000, bringing the estimated total to A$90,190. Please note these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fee information, always check the University of New England website. As a guide, living costs in New South Wales range from approximately A$400 to A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on location. Parramatta and Armidale differ in cost of living – Armidale is generally more affordable, while Parramatta offers proximity to Sydney with higher expenses.
Entry to this course typically requires a completed bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, with a minimum GPA. Applicants must also meet English language proficiency requirements, generally IELTS 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.5 or IELTS 7.0 overall with no band less than 7.0 in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Some prior study in human biology or health sciences may be recommended. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; however, applicants who do not meet direct entry may consider other pathways offered by the provider. All entry requirements are set by University of New England – refer to their website for the most accurate and up-to-date criteria. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for visa purposes.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, 40 hours per week, totaling approximately 800 hours. This is a structured work-integrated learning placement, typically consisting of clinical placements in hospitals, aged care facilities, community health centres, and other healthcare settings. These placements provide hands-on experience under the supervision of registered nurses and healthcare professionals, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments. Placements are arranged by the provider and may require travel or relocation. Students should be prepared for shift work, including weekends and public holidays. This work component is integral to meeting the professional registration requirements of AHPRA.
The course is delivered at four locations in New South Wales: (1) 28 George Street, Parramatta; (2) Church Street, Parramatta campus; (3) Level 4, 100 George Street, Parramatta campus; and (4) University of New England, Armidale campus. All locations are CRICOS-registered sites. Parramatta is a major commercial hub in Western Sydney, with a large student population and excellent public transport links to the Sydney CBD. Armidale is a regional city in the New England region, known for its university atmosphere and lower cost of living. Parramatta hosts over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, while Armidale has fewer but includes the main UNE campus. Students studying in Parramatta benefit from proximity to Sydney's healthcare facilities, while Armidale offers a quieter study environment. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the official CRICOS register so you can compare locations.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. As a master's student, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Remember to maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Financial capacity evidence is required to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy reminds you that we do not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections.
Applying for the Master of Nursing Practice (Preregistration) at University of New England involves three key steps:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to compare courses like this one. Filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field (Health), and location (NSW). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (00003G) and course CRICOS code (117406F) on the official CRICOS register.
Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet the entry requirements, including English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.0) and prior qualifications. Prepare your academic transcripts, personal statement, and any required documentation. Check application deadlines – University of New England typically has multiple intake periods. Submit your application directly through the provider's online portal.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – always seek professional advice for visa applications.
Ready to start your nursing career? Explore more CRICOS-registered nursing courses on HeadStart Academy.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in New South Wales →
Master of Nursing Practice (Preregistration) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of New England. 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.