Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Nursing combines foundational health sciences with practice‑based nursing units. Early study focuses on anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology and basic clinical skills. As you progress you study professional practice, clinical assessment and decision making, mental health nursing, maternal and child health, complex and acute care, aged and community care, and public and Indigenous health.

Learning is delivered through a mix of lectures, tutorials, simulated clinical labs and supervised clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. Practical assessment includes objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), clinical competency assessments, case studies and reflective practice assignments. The course usually includes capstone units that integrate leadership, evidence‑based practice and research methods to prepare graduates for professional registration and ongoing professional development.

Entry requirements

Entry pathways typically include successful completion of secondary school (an Australian Year 12 or recognised equivalent) or recognised tertiary study. Mature‑age applicants with relevant work experience or previous vocational qualifications may apply through alternative entry pathways. Applicants must meet the university's English language requirements if their prior study was not in English — commonly satisfied by recognised test scores or prior study in English.

Because the program requires clinical placements, offer conditions commonly include clearance checks such as immunisation status, a criminal history check (police check), and any jurisdictional health checks (for example child‑related employment checks) required by placement providers. Meeting the professional registration board's fitness to practise and health requirements is also expected prior to placement commencement.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse with the national nursing and midwifery board and can work across public and private hospitals, community and primary health services, residential aged care, mental health services, and health promotion programs. With experience, nurses often progress into clinical nurse specialist roles, nurse unit manager or team leader positions, nurse education and training, occupational health, research, policy roles, or take further study in midwifery, mental health, emergency nursing or nurse practitioner pathways.

CQU has a particular focus on producing graduates ready to work in regional, rural and remote contexts, so career opportunities often include roles in regional hospitals, remote community clinics and Indigenous health services.

Why study at Central Queensland University

CQU offers a practice‑centred nursing program with strong clinical partnerships across regional and metropolitan health services, giving students a breadth of placement experiences. The university invests in clinical simulation facilities and small group teaching to develop clinical skills and decision making before students enter live clinical environments.

Students benefit from CQU's emphasis on regional and remote health, with curriculum content addressing rural practice, cultural safety and Indigenous health. Flexible delivery options and supports for regional students help those studying from outside major metropolitan centres to complete theory units online while accessing local placement opportunities.

Overall, the program is designed to build the practical competencies, professional behaviours and reflective practice required for contemporary nursing practice and ongoing career development.