Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The honours year combines advanced coursework in research methods with an independent research project (honours thesis) supervised by academic staff. Core study areas typically include:

• Research methods and design: qualitative and quantitative approaches, mixed-methods designs, study ethics and research governance.
• Biostatistics and data analysis: introductory to intermediate statistical techniques relevant to health research and use of statistical software for analysis.
• Evidence-based practice and knowledge translation: critical appraisal of literature, systematic review methods and strategies to implement research findings into clinical settings.
• Honours thesis: an original research project carried out under supervision, including literature review, data collection, analysis and written thesis.
• Advanced professional issues: research ethics, health policy, leadership in nursing and considerations for clinical research roles.

The programme is usually delivered over a single full-time year (or equivalent part-time) and combines seminars, research supervision meetings and independent project work. Assessment is commonly a mix of assignments, presentations and the final honours thesis.

Entry requirements

Entry is generally open to graduates who hold a recognised Bachelor of Nursing (or equivalent) and meet the university's honours entry standards. Typical requirements include:

• A completed undergraduate nursing degree from an accredited institution.
• A demonstrated level of academic achievement in the prior degree consistent with honours admission (for example the equivalent of upper second-class honours or meeting the university's specified GPA threshold).
• Eligibility for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) or relevant registration in the applicant's home country, where applicable.
• Applicants usually must provide a research proposal or statement of interest and may be required to secure a supervisor within the faculty.
• Compliance with standard professional requirements for clinical placements and research, such as immunisation, police checks and up-to-date first aid/CPR, where relevant to the project.
• International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of an honours year in nursing broaden their career options by developing research skills and deeper clinical or academic expertise. Common pathways include:

• Clinical nurse researcher or research assistant roles within hospitals, health services and research institutes.
• Clinical specialist or advanced practice roles supported by evidence-based practice and project leadership skills.
• Positions in health policy, quality and safety, or clinical audit that draw on research literacy and evaluation skills.
• Progression to higher research degrees such as a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or PhD, and subsequent academic or research careers.
• Roles in nursing education, workforce development and consultancy that require strong critical appraisal and project management capabilities.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has a long-standing reputation for nursing education with an emphasis on values-informed, person-centred care. The university offers access to experienced supervisors active in health and nursing research, and opportunities to undertake projects aligned with clinical partners and research centres.

Students benefit from practical support for research training, including workshops on methodology and statistics, as well as simulation facilities and established clinical placement networks across public and private health services. The honours year at ACU provides a clear pathway into postgraduate research and careers that combine clinical expertise with research and leadership.