Flinders University
Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
Facilitate the development of specialised knowledge, skills and attributes for application in the critical care environment.

Course overview
The Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical frameworks and practical, evidence-based research skills required for nurses to work in critical care environments. It focuses on acquiring advanced knowledge and skills to care for patients with complex medical needs in a critical care setting.
The Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing can only be undertaken part-time.
The course is also available as an exit award from the MNG Master of Nursing - 1.5 years, subject to meeting the requirements in the Program of Study below.
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
What you will study
You must complete 18 units. Each topic is valued at four and a half units.
- Foundations for Responding to Clinical Deterioration Across the Lifespan
- Professional Experience in Resuscitation Across the Lifespan (WIL)
- Critical Care Nursing Theory
- Critical Care Nursing Practice (WIL)
Entry requirements
Admission requirements
- Applicants must typically hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification from an approved tertiary institution.
- Must be currently registered to practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency as a Registered Nurse
- Applicants must demonstrate the ability to meet the clinical requirements of this course.
However, the Dean (Education) may admit others who can show evidence of fitness for candidature under certain circumstances, subject to specific conditions.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
On completion of the course, you will be able to:
- Evaluate the concepts and theories around recognising, responding, and managing the acute, complex and/or critically ill deteriorating patient in a critical care setting.
- Defend using evidence-based nursing research skills to plan, implement and evaluate care provision in critical care environments.
- Adapt and deliver specialist critical care that meets the specific supportive care needs and experiences of people affected by acute illness or trauma.
- Initiate, plan, implement and evaluate an individualised, patient-centred, coordinated care plan in collaboration with the interprofessional healthcare team.
Career outcomes
Graduates are suitable for careers in a wide range of nursing-related fields. Our courses will allow registered nurses to provide skilful care to individuals, families and communities to prevent illness, promote healthy lifestyles and manage various emerging complex health issues. You can take on leadership and specialised care roles in various clinical nursing settings.
- Child and Family Health Nurses
- School Health Nurse
- Case Coordinator
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Health Promotion Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
Fees and CSP
Annual indicative fees in 2025: $2,313 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
Indicative yearly fee in 2025: $12,852 (Domestic full-fee paying place)
The indicative annual fee is based on a full-time study load of 18 units.
A student’s annual fee may vary by:
- The number of topics studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of topics.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
Student fees shown are subject to change.
Commonwealth Supported Places
The Australian Government allocates a certain number of CSPs to the universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.
If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you only need to pay some of your tuition fees. The student contribution amount is the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.
Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per the topics you're enrolled in.
- Depending on the study areas they relate to.
- Reviewed and adjusted each year.
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.