Australia is facing a critical shortage of nurses, with an estimated shortfall of 85,000 nurses by 2025 and 123,000 nurses by 2030, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. This indicates an urgent need for skilled nurses, creating excellent job opportunities for international students and making Australia an attractive destination for pursuing a nursing career. By completing the right nursing courses, you can significantly increase your chances of securing high-paying and in-demand roles.
In this article, we will explore the best nursing courses in Australia that lead to high-paying careers and lucrative job opportunities. Additionally, we will explain how to apply for nursing course in Australia and highlight the fees, and eligibility requirements.
Why Study Nursing Courses in Australia?
- Australia’s healthcare system offers competitive salaries, especially in specialized roles like a registered nurse, making Australia an attractive destination for a nursing career.
- The nursing jobs are one of the most in-demand jobs in 2025 and beyond. For example, in 2022, 85% of all nursing professionals were registered nurses. By 2035, the percentage will increase by 87.5%, according to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. This implies a higher demand for registered nurses.
- Nursing is part of Australia’s Skilled Migration Program, a government initiative designed to attract skilled laborers to fill shortages in key industries. Since nursing is listed in this program, international students who complete a nursing degree in Australia and gain relevant work experience have a higher chance of obtaining permanent residency through skilled migration pathways.
Nursing Courses in Australia to Secure High-Paying Jobs
Doctor of Philosophy – Nursing and Midwifery
Nurse leadership roles are among the highest-paying nursing jobs in Australia. Moreover, positions such as nurse managers are expected to experience growth in the coming years. As per the James Cook University report, nurse managers’ roles are projected to grow by 23% by 2026.
Completing a doctoral study in nursing provides students with insight into organizational leadership, decision-making, management of nursing teams, and healthcare policies – key skills required for nurse manager roles.
| Course Duration | 4 years |
| College | Curtin University |
| Fees | AUD 36,000 per year |
| Job Outcome and Salary | Nurse Manager: AUD 125,000 – AUD 140,000 per year |
| Intakes | February |
Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner)
Nurse practitioners are among the highest-paid nursing professionals in Australia, with an average annual salary of AUD 129,500. While they are in demand, these roles are in shortage across Australia, making them one of the sought-after professions in the healthcare sector. By completing a Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner), you have a higher chance of securing these sought-after jobs.
| Course Duration | 2 years |
| College | The University of Sydney |
| Fees | AUD 48,900 |
| Job Outcome and Salary | Nurse Practitioner: AUD 129,500 per year |
| Intakes | Feb and August |
Master of Advanced Nursing Practice
Nurse Consultants are in demand in Australia as they provide advanced, specialized care, and expert guidance in critical healthcare sectors. Their contributions improve patient outcomes, making them highly valuable, and their specialized skills contribute to their high pay.
Completing a Master of Advanced Nursing Practice helps international students develop advanced clinical skills and research capabilities, which are essential for nurse consultant roles. Additionally, this degree enhances their qualifications, positioning them for these in-demand roles in Australia.
| Course Duration | 1 year |
| College | The University of Melbourne |
| Fees | AUD 40,000 |
| Job Outcome and Salary | Nurse Consultant: AUD 118,721 per year |
| Intakes | Feb and July |
Master of Nursing (Clinical Education)
Nurse Educator is a growing profession and one of the highest-paying roles in Australia. According to recent reports, job growth in this field is expected to increase by over 11.4% by 2028, indicating a strong demand for these professionals.
Completing a Master of Nursing in Clinical Education equips students with the knowledge and expertise needed to effectively teach nursing students, which is essential for becoming a successful nurse educator.
| Course Duration | 3 years (part-time) |
| College | University of Southern Queensland |
| Fees | AUD 30,920 |
| Job Outcome and Salary | Nurse Educator: AUD 102,343 per year |
| Intakes | Feb and May |
Bachelor of Nursing (Advanced Studies)
Registered Nurses in Critical Care and Emergency are well-paid and in high demand due to the ongoing shortage of professionals in these critical areas. According to Australia’s Future Health Workforce – Nurses report, the country is projected to face a shortage of critical care and emergency nurses by 2030, creating significant employment opportunities. By completing a Bachelor of Nursing (Advanced Studies), students can help fill these shortages, as the degree demonstrates to employers that the student is equipped with specialized, high-level training essential for critical care roles.
| Course Duration | 3 years |
| College | The University of Sydney |
| Fees | AUD 46,900 |
| Job Outcome and Salary | Registered Nurses specializing in critical care or emergency: AUD 97,500 per year |
| Intakes | February |
Master of Nursing Science (Anaesthetics and Recovery Nursing)
Registered Nurses (Perioperative) are in demand in Australia and are well-paid due to the specialized nature of their work. These nurses are listed on 2025 Australia’s Occupation Shortage List, meaning perioperative nurses are considered a shortage occupation, indicating they are highly sought after. By completing a Master of Nursing Science (Anaesthetics and Recovery Nursing), international students will acquire advanced skills, significantly enhancing their chances of securing job opportunities in this field.
| Course Duration | 2 years |
| College | The University of Adelaide |
| Fees | AUD 42,000 |
| Job Outcome and Salary | Registered Nurse Perioperative: AUD 93,000 per year |
| Intakes | February |
Nursing in Australia: Requirements for International Students
Below are the eligibility requirements for international students:
- For Bachelor’s of Nursing, international students have to complete high school (12 years of schooling).
- For a Master’s degree in nursing, a Bachelor’s degree in nursing or an equivalent degree with good grades is required.
- For a Doctor’s degree, a Master’s degree in nursing or an equivalent degree is required.
- A minimum of 6.5 or above in IELTS is necessary to get admission into a decent university.
- A minimum score between 75 – 90 in TOEFL is required to get admission into a decent university.
Documents Required for Admission Process
- Academic Transcripts
- Scholarship received from your home country
- Proof of English Proficiency Test
- Resume
- Letter of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
How to Apply for Nursing Course in Australia?
- Choose the right course, whether it is Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral, depending on your career goals.
- Check out the eligibility requirements.
- Apply by visiting the university’s application portal.
- Create an account.
- Log into the account.
- Fill out all the necessary details.
- Pay the application fee and submit the application.
Conclusion
Australia is one the leading destinations for international students pursuing nursing courses due to its world-class education system, advanced healthcare facilities, and high demand for nurses. If you are considering a nursing course that can lead to high-paying jobs in Australia, explore the list of best courses and choose one that aligns with your career goals and requirements.
FAQs
It depends on the type of course you choose. Bachelors – 3 to 4 years, Master’s – 1 to 2 years, and Doctor’s – 4 to 5 years.
Yes, international students who have completed a nursing course in Australia are eligible for post-graduate work visas.
The cost of living varies by city. However, the average cost of living is around AUD 1,500 or more per month.