Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) (CRICOS course code 118951F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This course is designed for graduates who wish to become registered nurses in Australia. It is a full-time, accelerated program that combines theoretical learning with extensive clinical placements. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00300K), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) (CRICOS course code 118951F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This course falls under the field of General Nursing (060301) within the broader Health field. It prepares graduates for registration as a registered nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). The program is intensive and includes a significant work-integrated learning component. CDU is a government-owned university with a strong focus on remote and Indigenous health. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00300K), CDU is authorised to enrol international students. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them. All listed institutions comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections.
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required for professional nursing practice. The curriculum covers core areas such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, evidence-based practice, patient assessment, and nursing care across the lifespan. Students also explore mental health nursing, community health, and aged care. The program emphasises clinical reasoning, cultural safety, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates develop competencies in critical thinking, communication, and leadership in healthcare settings. As a Level 9 AQF qualification, it demands a high level of theoretical and applied learning. While this description provides a general overview, specific subjects and learning outcomes should be confirmed directly with Charles Darwin University.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual degree or foundation studies). The program is full-time and includes both on-campus learning and clinical placements. CDU offers this course at multiple campuses, allowing students to choose a location that suits their lifestyle. The language of instruction is English, and students must meet the university's English language requirements.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change. The estimated tuition is A$80,832 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services and amenities) are approximately A$736, bringing the estimated total to A$81,568. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check Charles Darwin University's official website. Living costs in Australia vary by city; for example, in Sydney, you might budget around A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, while in Alice Springs, costs are generally lower.
Entry into this course typically requires a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in any discipline, with a GPA of at least 4.0 out of 7.0. Prerequisites may include prior study in human anatomy and physiology. English language proficiency is essential: an overall IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.5) is commonly required. Other equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Some applicants may need to complete foundation or pathway programs before admission. Always consult Charles Darwin University's website for current entry requirements. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 20 weeks of clinical placement at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 800 hours. This practical experience is integral to the program, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare settings. Placements occur in hospitals, community health centres, aged care facilities, or other clinical environments. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision, developing competence and confidence for professional practice. This component satisfies the clinical hours required for nursing registration in Australia.
Charles Darwin University delivers this course at three campuses: Alice Springs Campus (NT), Casuarina Campus (NT), and Level 10, 815 George Street, Sydney (NSW). Alice Springs offers a unique remote health context, while Casuarina is in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory. Sydney's campus is in the central business district, close to major hospitals and public transport. Each location provides a different lifestyle and cost of living. Darwin typically has a tropical climate and lower cost of living than Sydney, while Sydney is more expensive but offers greater cultural and career opportunities. Students should consider their preferences when choosing a campus.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key visa conditions include: maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependants (if applicable). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the ESOS Act, which provides legal protections for student tuition fees and course quality. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) at Charles Darwin University (CDU): 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's tools to filter by course level (Masters), field (Health), and location (NT or NSW). Verify that CDU (CRICOS 00300K) is right for you. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check CDU's entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), and any prerequisite evidence. Submit your application through CDU's online portal before the deadline. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once CDU issues your CoE, you can apply for the Student visa. Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of funds. Lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to start your nursing journey in Australia? Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to compare CRICOS-registered programs and apply today.
Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.