Western Sydney University
Graduate Diploma in Nursing Online
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
- Course Type: Graduate Diploma
Create a broad postgraduate nursing pathway focused on evidence-based care, leadership, diversity and primary healthcare, with elective choices that can support your individual professional goals.
Course overview
Designed for registered nurses who want to broaden their professional capability without committing to a named specialisation, this graduate diploma strengthens the theoretical knowledge and critical thinking required for advanced clinical practice. It supports you to evaluate evidence, apply contemporary nursing concepts and contribute to improved health outcomes across varied care settings.
Core study examines evidence-based healthcare, cultural and social diversity, leadership in clinical practice, nursing perspectives and the role of primary healthcare. Students in the 80-credit-point pathway also examine how policy, power and politics influence healthcare provision. One or two elective subjects allow you to extend the course into areas aligned with your professional interests and career direction, depending on your admission pathway.
Graduates may pursue opportunities across community health, mental health, disability, rehabilitation, aged care, research and education. Successful completion may also provide a pathway into the Master of Nursing, subject to the applicable transfer requirements.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
19th July, 2027
What you will study
Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 80 credit points or 60 credit points, depending on the Pathway the student is enrolled in, based on the admission requirements.
Core subjects
- Cultural and Social Diversity in Health Care
- Evidence-Based Health Care
- Leadership in Clinical Practice
- Perspectives on Nursing
- Policy, Power and Politics in Health Care Provision
- Primary Health Care and Its Applications
- Plus two electives
Entry requirements
Candidature for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Nursing is based on one of the following requirements.
Graduate Diploma in Nursing (80 credit points)
- Registered Nurse (currently registered to practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency – Nursing and Midwifery), or eligibility for same, or certificate of registration of nursing, within the last five years, in their own country; and
- Completion of an undergraduate degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) in any discipline or a Graduate Certificate in Nursing; or
Graduate Diploma in Nursing (60 credit points)
- Registered Nurse (currently registered to practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency – Nursing and Midwifery), or eligibility for the same, or certificate of registration of nursing, within the last five years, in their own country
General admission criteria
- Completion of an undergraduate degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) or a Graduate Diploma, or higher, in any discipline; or
- Two years of equivalent professional work experience as a registered nurse within the last five years.
Applicants seeking admission based on work experience must support their application with a Statement of Service for all work experience listed on the application.
English language requirements
Applicants who have undertaken studies in other countries may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Details of the minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof can be found on the University's Admissions Centre website.
Contact the university or visit its website for more information.
Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have previously studied or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning. If your application is successful, you can reduce the number of courses you need to study, saving you time and money. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to many exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:
- Community health
- Mental health care services
- Disability services
- Rehabilitation services
- Aged care services
- Research and Education
Fees and CSP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $4,738 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full-time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee.
Commonwealth Supported Places
Studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means that the Australian Government pays part of the fees towards your program, therefore reducing your tuition fees. The remaining amount that you pay is referred to as your Student Contribution.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per subject you're enrolled in.
- Dependent on the study areas they relate to.
- Reviewed and adjusted each year.
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.