Graduate Diploma in Nursing

Postgraduate | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
On campus or online
Start date icon
Start date
February, July Key study dates
Duration icon
Duration
1 year(s) part-time only (no full-time option)
Program code icon
Program code
GDNUR
Study as icon
Study as
Part-time only (no full-time option)
Fees
Indicative annual fees
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SATAC code
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
None
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Assumed knowledge
None
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

  • A completed bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher from a recognised higher education institution; AND
  • Hold or be eligible to hold registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).

Additional Requirements

  • Applicants seeking to commence in the Critical Care specialisation will be required to submit a Statement of Clinical Support completed and endorsed by the applicant's Clinical Manager.
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Note:

This program can be studied mostly online, but in-person participation is mandatory for certain core courses, workshops and clinical placements.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Graduate Diploma in Nursing?

Drive better outcomes in your daily nursing practice. 

The work of registered nurses is essential to meet the increasing health needs of Australians. To meet this demand, we need more nurses with the ability to work in specialised areas of practice and work with greater autonomy. 

Studying our Graduate Diploma in Nursing will give you an advanced qualification with a skillset to match. Choose from a broad range of courses to create a study plan that relates to your existing clinical practice or embark on a dedicated pathway. Empower and enhance your career while enjoying flexible study options, including part-time and online. 

program overview

Overview

Adelaide University’s Graduate Diploma in Nursing will help you meet the challenges in modern Australian healthcare. 

This graduate diploma gives you the flexibility to choose your own study pathway that best relates to your clinical practice. Prepare for an elevated scope of practice and work duties. Choose electives that will provide you with advanced care skills in specialist areas. Sharpen your leadership skills and integrate the latest research and clinical evidence into your practice. 

Designed to fit around your life and existing clinical practice, you can study both online and part-time. You’ll also engage in workshops with other registered nurses and industry leaders – allowing you to make valuable connections and broaden your networks. 

Graduate with the skills to make a difference in your workplace and step into advanced clinical roles to meet Australia’s needs. 

What you'll learn

The Graduate Diploma in Nursing is a part-time program that can be studied mostly online, with some in-person participation required for certain courses, workshops and clinical placements.

This graduate diploma will teach you advanced clinical theory and its practical applications in the workplace. Enhance your knowledge in your chosen practice area and apply your skills in real clinical environments. 

Tailor this diploma to your specific career goals, choosing from 25 different electives, including:  

  • Women’s and reproductive health  
  • Primary care 
  • Leadership and management 
  • Acute care  
  • Education 
  • Perioperative nursing 
  • Mental Health 
  • Health and ageing  
  • Infection prevention and control  
  • Research and inquiry, preparing you for further qualifications like the Master of Nursing and Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner). 

No matter your chosen topics, you’ll think and apply your skills on a strategic level – thinking and behaving like a leader in the workplace. Your skills will be applicable to various roles as you progress in your career. 

Design a study path that works for you

This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after six months of study with a standalone Graduate Certificate or after one year with a Graduate Diploma qualification. 

You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the six-month Graduate Certificate and continue on to complete the Graduate Diploma (one year) or full master’s degree. 

Degree Structure: Graduate Diploma in Nursing

Program code: GDNUR

Complete 48 units comprising:

  • 48 units for Mental Health

Enrolment information

Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.

Courses

Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.

What courses you'll study

Complete 48 units comprising:

  • 48 units for Mental Health

Complete 48 units comprising:

  • 48 units for one Specialisation from Specialisation

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Mental Health
Course code
MNTHGDNMH
Units
48

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How to Apply

How to apply

Applications are open for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026.

Ask Adelaide University

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. 

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more. 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more. 

Your program team

Dr Allison Roderick

Program Director

College of Health

School of Nursing and Midwifery

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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