Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This degree combines core nursing science with practice-based learning, preparing graduates for safe, person-centred care across acute, community and aged-care settings. Study areas typically include anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, fundamentals of nursing practice, health assessment and clinical skills, mental health nursing, paediatric and maternal health, gerontological nursing, chronic and complex care, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, public and community health, and professional and ethical issues in nursing. Research methods and evidence-based practice are embedded to develop critical appraisal skills and reflective practice.

Learning is delivered through lectures, tutorials, skills workshops and simulation using clinical laboratories, together with multiple supervised clinical placements in hospitals, primary care, community and rural health services. Clinical practicums progressively increase in complexity to consolidate skills in patient assessment, medication management, care planning and interprofessional collaboration.

Entry requirements

Domestic applicants are normally required to have completed secondary school or an equivalent qualification; selection can be based on a combination of academic results (such as an Australian state senior certificate/TER/ATAR equivalent), relevant tertiary study or recognised prior learning. Applicants may also be required to demonstrate literacy and numeracy competence and meet professional suitability requirements, including health checks and vaccination requirements.

International applicants must meet Southern Cross University’s English language entry requirements and provide evidence of comparable academic qualifications. All applicants should be aware that professional registration is required to practise; graduates are eligible to apply to the relevant nursing registration authority, and registration conditions (including additional checks) must be met.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for registration and employment as registered nurses in a wide range of settings. Common entry-level roles include positions in public and private hospitals (medical/surgical, emergency, critical care and surgical wards), community and primary health services, aged-care facilities, mental health services and specialist outpatient clinics. Career progression pathways include specialist clinical roles, nurse practitioner preparation (with further study and endorsed practice), clinical education, quality and safety roles, management and leadership, research and policy positions. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in specialised nursing fields or health disciplines.

Why study at Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers practice-focused nursing education with access to clinical simulation facilities and established partnerships with regional and metropolitan health services, providing diverse placement opportunities including rural and remote settings. The university emphasises community and Indigenous health, reflective and evidence-based practice, and small-group learning that supports close interaction with academic staff. Student support services include academic skills assistance, career counselling and wellbeing resources to help transition from study to clinical practice.