Western Sydney University
Graduate Diploma in Nursing (Clinical Leadership)
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
Equips experienced nurses with the strategic, evidence-based leadership skills to drive innovation and excellence in complex healthcare environments.
Course overview
The Graduate Diploma in Nursing aims to provide Registered Nurses with the theoretical knowledge and critical thinking skills to prepare them for advanced practice in the clinical setting. Graduates can synthesise and apply advanced nursing concepts to lead nursing practice and optimise health outcomes.
The Clinical Leadership major provides an opportunity for professional clinical nurse leaders, such as nurse clinicians and nurse managers and aspiring nurse leaders to gain formal education in contemporary clinical leadership. You’ll learn the knowledge and skills to promote and facilitate nursing excellence within the clinical practice environment. On completion, you’ll be prepared to take on clinical leadership roles such as clinical nurse specialist and clinical nurse consultant.
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
Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 80 credit points or 60 credit points, depending on the Pathway the student is enrolled in, based on the admission requirements.
Core subjects
- Building Organisational Capacity in Health Care
- Cultural and Social Diversity in Health Care
- Evidence-Based Health Care
- Leadership for Quality and Safety in Health Care
- Leadership in Clinical Practice
- Perspectives on Nursing
- Policy, Power and Politics in Health Care Provision
- Plus one elective
Entry requirements
Candidature for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Nursing is based on one of the following requirements.
Graduate Diploma in Nursing (80 credit points)
- Registered Nurse (currently registered to practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency – Nursing and Midwifery), or eligibility for same, or certificate of registration of nursing, within the last five years, in their own country; and
- Completion of an undergraduate degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) in any discipline or a Graduate Certificate in Nursing; or
Graduate Diploma in Nursing (60 credit points)
- Registered Nurse (currently registered to practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency – Nursing and Midwifery), or eligibility for the same, or certificate of registration of nursing, within the last five years, in their own country
General admission criteria
- Completion of an undergraduate degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) or a Graduate Diploma, or higher, in any discipline; or
- Two years of equivalent professional work experience as a registered nurse within the last five years.
Applicants seeking admission based on work experience must support their application with a Statement of Service for all work experience listed on the application.
English language requirements
Applicants who have undertaken studies in other countries may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Details of the minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof can be found on the University's Admissions Centre website.
Contact the university or visit its website for more information.
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
- Mental health care services
- Disability services
- Rehabilitation services
- Aged care services
- Research and Education
Fees and CSP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $4,738 (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.
