The Diploma of Nursing in Australia is the perfect starting point for international students aspiring to join the healthcare industry. This nationally accredited qualification prepares students to become Enrolled Nurses (EN), providing essential patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN). This nursing diploma course blends classroom learning with hands-on clinical placements in real healthcare settings — giving students practical experience in hospitals, aged care, and community health facilities. Graduates of the Diploma of Nursing are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and can progress to a Bachelor of Nursing degree, opening doors to advanced career opportunities in nursing and healthcare.
Graduates can progress to a Bachelor of Nursing and later pursue roles such as Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse, or Nurse Unit Manager.
International students passionate about healthcare and patient support, students seeking a faster and cost-effective pathway to become a nurse in Australia, learners who want to gain practical, job-ready skills and enter the workforce sooner
Australian nursing qualifications are internationally respected, giving graduates the flexibility to work or pursue further studies across the globe
After completing the Diploma, students can seamlessly transition into a Bachelor of Nursing program with credit transfers, reducing both study time and tuition costs
Australia continues to face a strong demand for skilled nurses, offering excellent job prospects and pathways to skilled migration after graduation
Students gain extensive clinical placement experience in hospitals and healthcare facilities, ensuring real-world readiness from day one
Tuition for the Diploma of Nursing is more affordable compared to university degrees — making it an accessible first step for international students
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies, helping cover living expenses and gain exposure to the Australian healthcare environment
Qualified Enrolled Nurses are included on Australia's Skilled Occupation List, providing potential PR pathways for those who wish to build a long-term career in Australia
The Diploma of Nursing in Australia offers a practical and cost-effective pathway to becoming a qualified Enrolled Nurse and starting a fulfilling career in healthcare. Whether you're eager to gain hands-on clinical experience, enter the workforce sooner, or build a foundation for further nursing studies, this diploma sets you on the right track.
Find answers to common questions about Diploma of Nursing
The Diploma of Nursing is a nationally accredited qualification that prepares students to work as Enrolled Nurses (EN) in hospitals, aged care, and community health settings.
The course typically takes 1.5 to 2 years to complete on a full-time basis.
You'll generally need Year 12 or equivalent qualification, IELTS 7.0 overall with each band no less than 7.0, and Writing 6.5, plus police clearance and health checks. Requirements may vary slightly by institution.
Yes. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and full-time during holidays.
An Enrolled Nurse (EN) works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN). The Diploma qualifies you to become an EN, while a Bachelor of Nursing is required to become an RN.
Yes! Many institutions offer credit transfers for Diploma graduates, allowing you to enter the second year of a Bachelor of Nursing program.
Yes. Graduates can apply for Enrolled Nurse registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) once they meet all course and clinical requirements.
Yes. Enrolled Nurses are listed on Australia's Skilled Occupation List, which may support applications for Skilled Migration or Permanent Residency (subject to eligibility).
