Victoria University
Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing
- Delivery: Online
- Commitment: 15 - 20 hours/week
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 16 months
Gain a holistic understanding of mental health nursing.
Course overview
With the Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing, you can build your knowledge of trauma-informed care and gain a holistic understanding of mental health and its impact on individuals, families and communities.
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 Master of Mental Health Nursing from VU Online.
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 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.
