Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-Registration)

The Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-Registration) at La Trobe University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice in Australia. Delivered over three years full-time, the course is structured around semesters and includes a combination of core nursing units, clinical practice, and theoretical studies. Students engage in units of study that explore anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, mental health, community nursing, and evidence-based practice, all crucial for modern nursing roles.

This program is aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as a Level 7 qualification, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for safe and effective practice. Throughout the degree, students are assigned credit points per unit, reflecting academic progress toward the total required for graduation. A distinctive aspect of this course is its strong emphasis on clinical placements across metropolitan and regional health services. These work-integrated learning experiences are vital, providing over 800 hours of supervised practice to build essential communication, critical thinking, and patient care skills in real healthcare environments.

Graduates will gain a thorough understanding of ethical and legal frameworks, interprofessional collaboration, and person-centred care. The course is suited for those interested in a rewarding health career with a commitment to helping others, and for school-leavers or those changing careers who meet the academic and English proficiency requirements (including IELTS 7.0 or equivalent). La Trobe's connections with local health districts and the Australian healthcare system ensure students benefit from robust industry exposure.

Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). International students may also be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. While studying, eligible international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, which offers a pathway to gain practical experience within the Australian healthcare sector. For the most up-to-date entry and course details, consult the official La Trobe University website.

• Registered Nurse in public and private hospitals
• Community health nurse in primary and aged care
• Mental health nurse in acute and community settings
• Practice nurse in general practices and clinics
• Roles within Indigenous health, occupational health and school nursing
• Opportunities in policy, education, and research organisations within Australia's healthcare industry