Western Sydney University
Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 6 months
Gain the knowledge and clinical skills to practice mental health nursing skillfully and within ethical and legal boundaries.
Course overview
The Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing program encourages critical examination of current issues in mental health within national strategic directions for mental health care. Students of this program will gain an understanding of how to use the self therapeutically and the experiences of people who have mental illnesses, disorders and crises. You will have opportunities to undertake an in-depth study into mental health and mental illness relevant to your specific practice area. When you successfully complete this program, you may transfer to the Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing.
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
20th July, 2026
What you will study
Qualification for this award requires completing four core subjects or 40 credit points.
Core subjects
- Contemporary Professional Practice in Mental Health Nursing
- Mental Health Assessment and Application
- Mental Health Nursing Practice 1
- Mental Health Nursing Practice 2
Entry requirements
All applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for entry:
- A registered nurse or registered midwife (currently registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency - Nursing and Midwifery), or eligibility for the same.
- One year of full-time equivalent work experience as a registered nurse or registered midwife within the last five years, or current and continuing employment as a registered nurse in a mental health setting.
Applicants seeking admission based on work experience must support their application with a Statement of Service for all work experience listed on the application.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Credit for Prior Learning is the recognition of prior learning in terms of experience and/or studies. When you apply for Credit for Prior Learning, the university will assess your prior learning. It may award you Credit for Prior Learning in the program you are currently studying in recognition of what you have achieved. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to many exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:
- Community health
- Hospitals
- Aged care homes
- Private nursing
Fees and CSP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $2,369 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full-time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee.
Commonwealth Supported Places
Studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means that the Australian Government pays part of the fees towards your program, therefore reducing your tuition fees. The remaining amount that you pay is referred to as your Student Contribution.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per subject you're enrolled in.
- Dependent 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.
