Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Nursing combines foundational biomedical science with practice-focused nursing units and opportunities for clinical experience. You will study topics such as human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, clinical assessment and therapeutic communication. Professional practice units emphasise person-centred care, clinical decision-making, safety and quality in healthcare, and legal and ethical issues in nursing.

• Core clinical areas: acute care, medical–surgical nursing, aged care, paediatrics, maternity and women’s health, and mental health nursing.
• Practice and skills development: clinical assessment, medication administration, wound care, infection prevention and control, and advanced clinical simulation.
• Population and community health: primary care, chronic disease management, health promotion and working with diverse and vulnerable populations including Indigenous health.
• Professional practice and leadership: evidence-based practice, quality improvement, interprofessional teamwork and aspects of leadership and management in healthcare.
• Research and critical thinking: introduction to nursing research methods, data interpretation and translating evidence into practice.

The programme includes multiple supervised clinical placements across metropolitan and regional health services, and progressive immersion in practice environments supported by simulated learning laboratories and clinical skills sessions.

Entry requirements

Admission is typically based on secondary school completion or an equivalent qualification, and ACU also considers applicants with relevant vocational qualifications or prior learning. Mature-age applicants and those with relevant healthcare experience may be eligible through ACU’s alternative entry pathways.

• Academic prerequisites: completion of secondary education or recognised equivalent; some campuses or pathways may require prior study in a science subject.
• English language proficiency: applicants whose prior study was not in English will need to demonstrate proficiency through recognised tests or qualifications.
• Health and safety checks: successful applicants must meet health requirements for clinical placement, which commonly include immunisation screening, a National Police Check and any required state-based working with children or vulnerable people checks.
• Practical requirements: compliance with placement provider requirements (such as vaccinations and insurance), and ability to meet clinical placement attendance and fitness-for-practice standards.

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (through AHPRA), subject to meeting registration requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to work as Registered Nurses in a broad range of settings. Common first roles include ward-based positions in public and private hospitals, community and primary healthcare, residential aged care, and mental health services. Over time, nurses commonly move into specialist clinical roles, nurse education, clinical coordination, case management, research, policy and management positions.

The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study such as postgraduate diplomas, clinical specialisation programs, nurse practitioner pathways or research degrees for those interested in academic and research careers.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises compassionate, person-centred care grounded in professional ethics and social justice. The university has established clinical partnerships with a wide range of metropolitan and regional health services, providing diverse placement opportunities. Students benefit from dedicated simulation facilities and small-group learning that support practical skill development and clinical confidence.

ACU also focuses on community engagement, Indigenous health and working with vulnerable populations, preparing graduates to deliver culturally safe care. Support services for students include academic support, clinical placement coordination and career development resources to help transition into the workforce.