Victoria University
Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing
- Delivery: Online
- Commitment: 15 - 20 hours/week
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 16 months
Develop advanced skills in recovery-oriented, trauma-informed and evidence-based mental health nursing through flexible online study.
Course overview
The Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing at Victoria University develops advanced knowledge and skills for registered nurses seeking to specialise in mental health practice. You will explore contemporary approaches to mental health care, including recovery-oriented practice, trauma-informed care and biopsychosocial and cultural perspectives on mental health.
Throughout the course, you will develop skills in mental health nursing, care coordination, community health and supporting the mental health needs of people across the lifespan. You will also examine evidence and research for practice, helping you apply research-informed approaches to mental health nursing and improve care across diverse health settings.
Delivered 100% online through VU Online’s postgraduate Block Model, the course allows you to study one unit at a time over seven-week study periods. After completing the graduate diploma, you can continue into VU’s Master of Mental Health Nursing.
Key facts
8th March, 2027
10th May, 2027
5th July, 2027
25th October, 2027
What you will study
To attain the Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing, students must complete the following eight units:
- Recovery-Oriented Mental Health
- Biopsychosocial and Cultural Perspectives in Mental Health
- Effective Trauma-Informed Care
- Mental Health Nursing
- Promoting Cultural Competence and Community Health
- Mental Health in Later Life
- Care Coordination in Practice
- Evidence and Research for Practice
Entry requirements
Applicants must have the following:
- Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor of Nursing, or equivalent qualification; AND
- 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; AND
- Provide evidence that they are employed in a health setting (e.g., employment contract); OR
- Completed Victoria University’s Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
With VU Online’s Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing, you’ll enhance your knowledge and skills in evidence-based assessment and intervention approaches in mental health to take up senior mental health services positions. This course positions you to take on mental health care coordination roles, leadership roles in mental health nursing or community mental health services.
Upon completion, you can continue your studies to gain your Master of Mental Health Nursing.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Cost per unit in 2026: From $2,870 up to $2,950 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Total cost for eight units in 2026: $23,280 (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.
