Victoria University

Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing Online

  • Delivery: Online
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 8 months
  • Course Type: Graduate Certificate

Build a stronger foundation for compassionate mental health nursing. Explore recovery-oriented and trauma-informed care, developing knowledge you can apply in your current health setting.

Ready to take the next step?

Download your course guide and connect with a study advisor to explore:

  • Course structure
  • Learning outcomes
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements

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Course overview

Respond to mental health needs with deeper understanding and a more informed approach to care. Victoria University’s online Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing develops foundational specialist knowledge for nurses seeking to strengthen their practice or move towards a mental health focus.

Study recovery-oriented mental health, biopsychosocial and cultural perspectives, trauma-informed care and mental health nursing. Examine how mental illness interacts with physical health, social circumstances and cultural experiences, recognising the different needs and priorities people bring to care.

Develop your understanding of therapeutic relationships, consumer choice and collaborative decision-making. Reflect on stigma, ethical challenges and the effects of trauma, building knowledge that supports respectful, evidence-based care and recovery.

Complete four units online over eight months part-time, studying one subject at a time through VU’s seven-week Block Model. Designed to connect with your work in a health setting, the qualification also provides a pathway into the Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing and, subsequently, the Master of Mental Health Nursing.

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

Delivery
Online
Course Type
Graduate Certificate
Duration
8 months (Part time)
Commitment
15 - 20 hours/week
Price Per Unit
$2,950
More Information
The indicative price reflects the average first-year annual fee, based on a part-time study load of four units.

From $578 (CSP)
More Information
You may be eligible for CSP where the government pays part of your fees. CSP prices are calculated based on a part-time study load of four units.
Intake
11th January, 2027
8th March, 2027
10th May, 2027
5th July, 2027
30th August, 2027
25th October, 2027
Units
More Information
You may be required to complete 0 credit point units throughout your course. The university will confirm this as part of your enrolment.

The unit total reflects the number of units required for course completion, not the total credit point weight. Some units may be double- or triple-weighted, so the number of units you complete may be lower.
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Fees
More Information
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
FEE-HELP, CSP

What you will study

To attain the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing, students must complete the following core units:

Core units

  • Recovery-Oriented Mental Health 
  • Biopsychosocial and Cultural Perspectives in Mental Health 
  • Effective Trauma-Informed Care 
  • Mental Health Nursing

Entry requirements

Applicants must have the following:

  • Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor of Nursing, or equivalent qualification.
  • Registration as a Registered Nurse (Division 1) or Registered Midwife with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), or equivalent registration with the relevant registering authority for applicants outside of Australia, AND:
  • Evidence that they are employed in a health setting (e.g., employment contract).

Outcomes

Career outcomes

VU's program equips you with the advanced knowledge and skills to provide compassionate care and support to those with mental health needs. Whether you're a practising nurse looking to specialise in mental health or seeking to switch your career focus, VU's program prepares you to make a real impact.

With a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing from VU, you can take your career to the next level and make a difference.

Career options:

  • Specialist mental health nurse
  • Mental health nurse team leader
  • Clinical nurse specialist
  • Mental health nursing manager

Fees and FEE-HELP

Total cost for four units in 2026: $11,560 (domestic full-fee paying place)

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of four units per year.

Student annual fees may vary in accordance with:

  • The number of units studied per term.
  • The choice of major or specialisation.
  • Choice of units.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.

Student Testimonials

Amanda Frape

Amanda Frape

I am receiving a lot of support from my facilitators and my Student Success Advisor, who boosts my confidence and self-esteem.

Maxwell Gratton

Maxwell Gratton

It was personally satisfying to connect and collaborate with a range of industry professionals. Many have become valuable work contacts, some even lifelong friends and career mentors.

Emma Longuet

Emma Longuet

The flexibility, relevance and opportunity that VU Online brings to higher education are testaments to excellence in teaching and learning.