Victoria University
Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing
- Delivery: Online
- Commitment: 15 - 20 hours/week
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 8 months
Designed by leading health academics and delivered 100% online, this course will give you a strong foundation in Mental Health Nursing.
Course overview
With the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing, you can gain a strong foundation in mental health nursing with four units of study to help you build your career.
You will develop your understanding of mental ill-health and examine common mental illnesses with a contemporary curriculum designed by mental health nursing experts.
After completing this course, you will be able to deliver mental health nursing practice and produce better outcomes for patients. You will also be able to continue your studies with the Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing, followed by the Master of Mental Health Nursing.
VU Online’s Postgraduate Block Model
Victoria University's postgraduate online Block Model is designed to be flexible, interactive and student-centred. You’ll experience structured and supportive online learning and benefit from 1:1 academic support via phone, email or SMS, seven days a week and in the evenings.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
16th March, 2026
11th May, 2026
6th July, 2026
31st August, 2026
26th October, 2026
What you will study
To attain the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing, students must complete the following core units:
Core units
- Recovery-Oriented Mental Health
- Biopsychosocial and Cultural Perspectives in Mental Health
- Effective Trauma-Informed Care
- Mental Health Nursing
Entry requirements
Applicants must have the following:
- Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor of Nursing, or equivalent qualification.
- Registration as a Registered Nurse (Division 1) or Registered Midwife with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), or equivalent registration with the relevant registering authority for applicants outside of Australia.
- Evidence that they are employed in a health setting (e.g., employment contract).
Outcomes
Career outcomes
VU's program equips you with the advanced knowledge and skills to provide compassionate care and support to those with mental health needs. Whether you're a practising nurse looking to specialise in mental health or seeking to switch your career focus, VU's program prepares you to make a real impact.
With a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing from VU, you can take your career to the next level and make a difference.
Career options:
- Specialist mental health nurse
- Mental health nurse team leader
- Clinical nurse specialist
- Mental health nursing manager
Fees and CSP
Total cost for four units in 2026: $2,312 (Commonwealth Supported Places)
Total cost for four units in 2026: $11,560 (domestic full-fee paying place)
The total cost of completing your degree at Victoria University (VU) Online depends on the number of units you study and whether you are eligible for advanced standing, which is assessed after you submit your application. 2026 student fees shown are subject to change.
Note that you may be eligible for the Australian Government’s loan scheme, FEE-HELP. The loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying students with the cost of a university program. It can be used for all or part of the tuition.
Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place where the government pays for part of your unit fees. This is a subsidy, not a loan, so you do not need to pay it back. Your remaining fees may also be eligible for FEE-HELP. Limited places available.
