Explore Nursing and Public Health Courses in Australia
Australia is a top destination for international students pursuing nursing and public health education. With globally recognised qualifications, access to modern healthcare facilities, and industry-relevant training, students gain strong theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience that prepare them for global healthcare careers.
Why Study Nursing and Public Health in Australia
Australian healthcare qualifications are highly respected worldwide, offering a strong mix of theory and hands-on clinical training. Students are taught under the guidance of experienced professionals in modern facilities and benefit from high employability in both local and international health sectors.
Australian nursing programs are accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), while public health programs align with PHAA and WHO standards. These degrees combine academic rigour with real-world placements and offer high employability across hospitals, aged care, community health, and policy sectors.
Top Universities in Australia for Nursing and Public Health
Australia hosts several globally ranked universities offering top-tier nursing and public health degrees. These institutions combine academic excellence with access to cutting-edge healthcare training and research facilities.
Top Courses in Australia for Nursing and Public Health
A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses are available for students interested in healthcare and public health. These programs are tailored to meet the evolving needs of global health systems and include both clinical and non-clinical streams.
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Bachelor of Midwifery
- Bachelor of Public Health
- Master of Nursing Practice
- Master of Advanced Nursing
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Health Promotion
Master of Global Health - Master of Clinical Nursing
- Master of Health Administration
How to Apply to Nursing and Public Health Courses in Australia
Application processes differ based on the level of study and the nature of the program. Nursing programs often require additional medical documentation, while public health programs focus more on academic and personal statements.
Undergraduate (UG) Steps:
- Choose course and university
- Apply online with academic transcripts and English test scores
- Submit health documents and proof of immunisation
- Receive offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
Postgraduate (PG) Steps:
- Apply with bachelor’s degree (preferably in health sciences, nursing, or related field)
- Submit Statement of Purpose (SOP), references, resume, and English scores
- Meet specific clinical or registration criteria (for nursing)
Admission Requirements
Admission into nursing and public health courses in Australia depends on academic qualifications, English proficiency, and for clinical degrees, health-related compliance like immunisations. Requirements vary by university and level of study.
Undergraduate (Nursing/Public Health):
- Class 12 with 65-85% (science stream preferred)
- IELTS: 7.0 overall (no band below 7.0) - Nursing
- IELTS: 6.5-7.0 - Public Health
- PTE equivalent scores
- Up-to-date vaccinations and police clearance
Postgraduate (MPH/Nursing):
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (min. 55-65%)
- IELTS:
- 6.5-7.0 for Public Health
- 7.0 overall (Nursing Practice or Registration)
- PTE or TOEFL equivalents
- Clinical programs may require prior registration or licensure
Course Duration and Intakes
Course durations vary based on the degree and specialisation. Most programs offer two main intakes and follow a structured semester calendar.
- Bachelor of Nursing: 3 years
- Bachelor of Public Health: 3 years
- MPH / MNursing / MHA: 1.5-2 years
- Intakes: February and July (some courses in November)
Tuition Fees and Cost of Study
Studying in Australia involves both tuition fees and living costs. The fees vary by institution and program, with healthcare degrees generally ranging from AUD 32,000 to 50,000 per year.
- UG Tuition Fees (Nursing/Public Health): AUD 32,000 - 42,000/year
- PG Tuition Fees: AUD 34,000 - 48,000/year
- Living Costs: AUD 24,505/year (visa requirement for 2025)
Scholarships and Financial Aid
International students can access a variety of scholarship opportunities. These may be government-funded, university-specific, or tailored to students from underrepresented or rural backgrounds.
Scholarships include:
- Australia Awards (MPH, Public Health)
- Destination Australia Scholarships
- University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships
- Griffith Health Scholarships
- Women in Health bursaries
- Equity and rural health grants
Australian Student Visa Process
To study in Australia, students must apply for a Subclass 500 Student Visa. This process requires financial documentation, proof of enrolment, and health insurance coverage.
- Apply for Subclass 500 Student Visa after receiving CoE
- Visa Fee: AUD 710 (2025 rate)
- Financial proof: AUD 29,710 minimum
- Submit OSHC, GTE statement, and medical checks
Career Prospects and Post‑Study Work Rights
Australia offers a wide range of career opportunities for nursing and public health graduates. Many roles are included on the Skilled Occupation List, creating strong pathways to employment and permanent residency.
Graduates are in high demand in:
- Hospitals and clinics (public and private)
- Community and aged care services
- Health promotion and outreach programs
- NGOs and global health organisations
- Public health policy and epidemiology
- Research institutions and healthcare management
Post-study work rights under Subclass 485 Visa:
- 2 years for UG
- 3-4 years for PG
Nursing, midwifery, and public health professionals are on the Skilled Occupation List, supporting PR via 189, 190, or 491 visa pathways.
FAQs
Get answers to common queries from students planning to study Nursing & Public Health in Australia.
Is Australian nursing registration accepted internationally?
Yes. ANMAC-accredited degrees are recognised in New Zealand, the UK, and some Gulf and Asia-Pacific countries.
Can I get PR after studying nursing in Australia?
Yes. Nursing is one of the highest priority occupations for skilled migration.
Do I need work experience for MPH?
Not compulsory, but prior healthcare/public health experience strengthens your application.
Are clinical placements part of nursing courses?
Yes. Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing include mandatory hospital placements.
How Manipal Overseas Careers Can Help
At Manipal Overseas Careers, we help Indian students choose the best courses to study in Australia based on career goals, visa eligibility, and industry demand. Our expert consultants provide:
- Personalized course recommendations
- University selection & application assistance
- Scholarship & financial aid guidance
- Visa processing & documentation support
Choosing the right course is the first step toward a successful future. Let Manipal Overseas Careers help you find the best study program and secure admission to top Australian universities.