Graduate Diploma Nursing Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Intensive Care Nursing

at University of Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

068771F

CRICOS provider code

00026A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$48,900 total

Per year

A$48,900/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Intensive Care Nursing at the University of Sydney prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in critical care environments. Throughout the one-year programme, students engage in comprehensive study and practical experiences, enhancing their knowledge and skills in patient assessment, life support techniques, and the management of complex health conditions common in intensive care settings. The programme covers both theoretical frameworks and hands-on training, ensuring that graduates are equipped to deliver high-quality care in high-pressure situations.

This graduate diploma consists of structured units of study that lead to the attainment of credit points, typically following a semester system. Students benefit from a capstone project that showcases their mastery of essential concepts and skills, alongside engaging in work-integrated learning opportunities. This practical element facilitates real-world experience, allowing students to develop their professional competencies while working alongside experienced practitioners in clinical environments.

Those who pursue this course will gain essential skills such as critical thinking, advanced clinical decision-making, and effective communication in multidisciplinary teams. The programme is particularly suited for registered nurses looking to specialise in intensive care or elevate their clinical skills in high-acuity areas. Additionally, the course is designed to cater to those aiming for leadership roles within nursing, thus enhancing their career trajectory in the healthcare sector.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.
International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

  • Critical Care Nurse in hospitals
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Educator in intensive care settings
  • Health Services Manager
  • Research Nurse in advanced practice

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Intensive Care Nursing at University of Sydney?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$48,900 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Critical Care Nurse in hospitalsClinical Nurse SpecialistNurse Educator in intensive care settingsHealth Services ManagerResearch Nurse in advanced practice

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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