Master of Nursing (CRICOS course code 117555D) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years. This qualification is designed for international students seeking advanced nursing knowledge and clinical skills in Australia. Located at the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde in Sydney, NSW, the course integrates theory with a substantial work component of 20 weeks (840 hours). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00002J), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. If you're considering a nursing career in Australia, this program offers a pathway to advanced practice. Always verify current details with Macquarie University before applying.
The Master of Nursing falls within the field of education 060300 - Nursing, n.f.d., part of the health sector (06). At AQF Level 9, this course typically prepares graduates for advanced nursing roles, including leadership, research, and specialized clinical practice. Students engage with evidence-based practice, health policy, and complex patient care. While specific curriculum details are set by Macquarie University, a masters level nursing program usually includes modules on advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and chronic disease management. Graduates often pursue roles as nurse practitioners, clinical educators, or health service managers. The course also emphasizes cultural competence and interprofessional collaboration, reflecting Australia's diverse healthcare environment. For international students, understanding the Australian healthcare system is a key component. Note that this program is not a dual qualification and does not include foundation studies.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Nursing runs for 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification – no dual degree or embedded foundation studies. The course is offered on a full-time basis; part-time options may be available for domestic students but international students typically need to maintain full-time enrolment per visa conditions. Delivery is on-campus at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus. Students should plan for a significant time commitment, especially during the work placement component. The duration aligns with standard Australian masters degrees (AQF Level 9 Coursework). Always confirm mode delivery directly with Macquarie University as schedules may vary.
The indicative total cost for this course is A$86,426, broken down as A$85,680 tuition and A$746 non-tuition fees. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is the fee for the academic program; non-tuition may cover materials, library access, or administrative charges. Fees are set by Macquarie University and subject to change – always confirm directly with the provider for the latest costs. Additional expenses not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–700 per year for single cover; living costs in Sydney – around A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport; and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). For a 2-year program, budget at least A$20,000 extra for living expenses and OSHC. HeadStart Academy recommends using the provider's fee calculator and consulting the official CRICOS website.
For international students, English proficiency is a key requirement. The indicative IELTS range is 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0 or 6.5 (depending on provider standards). Prior qualifications: applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related health field, with registration as a nurse in their home country. Some universities require relevant work experience. Macquarie University may also consider academic transcripts and a personal statement. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet direct entry, Macquarie may offer a Graduate Certificate or Diploma as a pathway. However, this course has no embedded foundation studies. Always review the specific entry requirements on Macquarie University's website or contact their admissions team. Meeting minimum entry does not guarantee a place – competition can be high.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (840 total hours) at 42 hours per week. This is a substantial placement, likely structured as clinical placements in hospitals, aged care facilities, or community health settings. Work-integrated learning (WIL) is integral to nursing programs, allowing students to apply theory under supervision. For international students, placements count as part of the course, and you must comply with any clinical requirements (e.g., immunizations, police checks). The CRICOS register confirms the work component hours – always clarify with the provider whether these are rostered shifts, block placements, or a combination. This practical experience is invaluable for building Australian healthcare industry connections and may be a prerequisite for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) after graduation.
The Master of Nursing is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde – Macquarie University, NSW. This is a single location. North Ryde is part of Sydney's northern suburbs, about 15 km from the CBD. The campus is accessible via public transport – trains to Macquarie University station (on the Metro North West line) and multiple bus routes. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and has over 20 CRICOS-registered nursing providers. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus may be A$400–600 per week; groceries around A$80–150 per week; and transport about A$40–50 per week if using public transport concessions. The campus offers modern facilities including simulation labs, libraries, and student support services. When choosing a location, consider commute times and lifestyle preferences.
International students studying this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa allows you to study full-time and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term-time, with unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity is also required: you need to show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, travel, and dependents (if applicable). OSHC covers basic medical and hospital care. For visa applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters), field (Nursing), and location (NSW). Verify that Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J) meets your preferences. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – complete Macquarie University's online application, submit required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, references), and meet the application deadline (typically several months before intake). Pay the application fee if required. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – once accepted, Macquarie will issue a CoE. Then apply for the visa via ImmiAccount, attach OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Visa processing can take weeks – apply early. Always check provider-specific application procedures as they may vary.
Sydney is Australia's largest city with a multicultural population of over 5 million. It has a strong healthcare sector, with major hospitals like Royal North Shore and Westmead. As an international student, you'll benefit from a large student community (over 60 nationalities at Macquarie) and robust support services. However, the cost of living is high – budget around A$30,000–40,000 per year for living expenses including rent, food, transport, and leisure. The city offers excellent public transport, but some students prefer living on campus or in nearby suburbs. Employment opportunities for registered nurses in Sydney are strong, with demand in aged care, hospitals, and community health. If you value a dynamic urban environment with diverse clinical placement options, Sydney is a great choice. Consider also regional campuses if you prefer a lower cost of living. This program leads to NMBA registration (subject to additional assessments) – important for post-study work.
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Master of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.