In This Article
- Which universities offer Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne and surrounding areas?
- University rankings for nursing courses in Melbourne
- How much do Master of Nursing courses cost in Melbourne?
- Which universities in Melbourne offer CSPs for Master of Nursing courses?
- Are scholarships available for Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne?
- What specialisations are available for Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne?
- Is there demand for nursing professionals in Melbourne?
- What major hospitals are located in Melbourne for postgraduate nursing graduates to work at?
- How much are nurses paid in Victoria?
- Is it better to study a Master of Nursing in Melbourne or a rural area?
- Comparing top Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne
- Study a Master of Nursing course
If you’re looking to advance your nursing career – whether that means stepping into a leadership role, specialising in a particular area or contributing to research – a Master of Nursing could be the ideal pathway. This postgraduate qualification can open doors to a broad range of opportunities, enhance your professional credibility and position you for roles that influence patient care, policy and healthcare delivery.
Whether you live in regional or metropolitan Melbourne, there are a variety of universities that offer a Master of Nursing course. Here, we’ll outline the different universities offering this course in Melbourne, share key details and also provide you with a snapshot of Melbourne’s nursing landscape.
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
Which universities offer Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne and surrounding areas?
University rankings for nursing courses in Melbourne
According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, here are the university rankings for nursing courses in Melbourne.
| Rankings | |
|---|---|
| #24 | Monash University |
| #25 | The University of Melbourne |
| #42 | La Trobe University |
| #51-100 | Australian Catholic University |
| #51-100 | Deakin University |
| #151-225 | CQUniversity Australia |
| #151-225 | RMIT University |
How much do Master of Nursing courses cost in Melbourne?
As of 2025, the most affordable Master of Nursing course in Melbourne is offered by Victoria University at approximately $35,400, while the most expensive is at Deakin University, costing around $61,500.
| University | Duration of course | Fees (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Victoria University | Two years part-time | $35,400 |
| Federation University | 18 months full-time or part-time equivalent | $44,250 |
| La Trobe University | Two years full-time or part-time equivalent | $61,200 |
| Deakin University | 18 months full-time or part-time equivalent | $61,500 |
Which universities in Melbourne offer CSPs for Master of Nursing courses?
A Commonwealth supported place (CSP) is a government-subsidised place that significantly reduces tuition fees for eligible domestic students. With a CSP, the Australian Government pays for part of the course and you only pay the student contribution amount. This contribution is much lower than the full tuition fee.
While postgraduate CSP courses in healthcare do exist, they’re generally not as widely available as undergraduate CSPs and are harder to come by. That being said, there are a few universities in Melbourne that offer CSPs for Master of Nursing courses. These include:
Federation University
CSPs are available for the Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) course with the indicative full-time fee for 2026 being $4,738. There is, however, no CSP option for the university’s Master of Nursing course as it is a research master’s degree.
La Trobe University
Offers CSPs for their Master of Nursing course with an indicative full-fee CSP price of $4,822 for 2026.
Victoria University
CSPs are available for select units within the Master of Nursing course as these units are part of another course that is covered by CSP for eligible students. For example, units such as Promoting Cultural Competence and Community Health and Care Coordination in Practice may cost $578 compared to the full-fee rate of $2,958 per unit.
It is important to note that CSP places for postgraduate courses are highly competitive and limited in number. Demand often exceeds availability, meaning not all eligible applicants will be offered a subsidised place.
In addition, CSP availability can vary year to year as it is dependent on government funding allocations. Hence, it’s essential to confirm with the university whether they are offered for your chosen course and intake.
Are scholarships available for Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne?
Several universities in Melbourne offer scholarships for Master of Nursing students. Availability and eligibility can vary, so you will need to check each university’s website for further details.
Deakin University
The university offers a range of scholarships to support Master of Nursing students. These include the Deakin Support Scholarship for students experiencing personal or financial hardship as well as scholarships that provide financial support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
As Deakin’s Master of Nursing course is a higher degree by research, students may also be eligible for a variety of postgraduate research scholarships.
Federation University
Federation University provides various higher degree by research scholarship options that are suitable for students undertaking the Master of Nursing. Additionally, scholarships are also available to support Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on their educational journey.
La Trobe University
The university offers a wide range of scholarships, including the Carol Friday Master of Nursing Bursary, which is valued at $4,677. To be eligible for this bursary, applicants will need to fulfill requirements such as being registered as both a Division 1 nurse and midwife with Ahpra and having a postgraduate qualification in child, family and community nursing.
Victoria University
Victoria University provides a range of scholarships, such as the Moodan Balluk Student Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Our Healthcare Education Scholarship for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples awards $5,000 to the successful applicant to support their undergraduate or postgraduate studies in healthcare. Learn more about the scholarship here.
What specialisations are available for Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne?
Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne offer a range of specialisations including:
La Trobe University
- Acute care
Develop the skills and evidence-based practice needed to manage acutely unwell patients and deliver high-quality patient outcomes. - Cardiac care
Gain expertise in making detailed assessments and improving the wellbeing of patients with heart-related illnesses. - Critical care
Build capabilities in critical care nursing from triage to trauma response. - Health management
Explore how technology, policy and processes can be used to create efficient healthcare systems that achieve better outcomes. - Leadership
Learn about people management, healthcare operations, policy and financial management. - Medical imaging
Develop the skills to care for patients in medical imaging and radiology settings. - Neonatal care
Deliver supportive, family-centred healthcare to newborns who are premature, have low birth weight or are unwell. - Neonatal special care
Gain advanced knowledge of risks, outcomes and complications such as preterm birth and congenital conditions. - Perioperative practice
Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills in perioperative and surgical care contexts. - Public health
Examine issues such as disease prevention, health promotion, health policy and the social determinants of health.
Victoria University
- Chronic disease and ageing
Build expertise in creating innovative care interventions and models for residents, patients, families and carers. - Leadership
Develop leadership capabilities in nursing and in areas such as financial management and organisational management. - Nursing informatics leadership
Learn advanced informatics strategies alongside leadership skills.
Is there demand for nursing professionals in Melbourne?
There is strong and growing demand for nursing professionals in Victoria, including Melbourne. With the state’s population projected to increase, combined with an ageing population and an existing shortage of nurses, demand for nursing professionals is expected to rise significantly.
Growing population
Victoria’s population is forecast to grow by 23 per cent between 2022 and 2032, rising from 6.7 million to 8.2 million people. This growth will place greater pressure on the state’s healthcare system, increasing the demand for nurses.
Ageing population
In 2021, there were almost 1.5 million Victorians aged 60 or over. By 2046, this figure is expected to increase by around 60 per cent to more than 2.3 million people. As the population ages, there will be increased demand for nurses in areas such as aged care and chronic disease management.
Shortage of nurses
The Department of Health and Aged Care’s Nursing Supply and Demand Study projects a nationwide shortage of more than 70,000 nurses by 2035. This shortfall is also evident in Victoria, with the National Skills Commission identifying ongoing shortages in key healthcare roles such as enrolled nurses and registered nurses in Victoria.
With these factors combined, the demand for nursing professionals in Melbourne is expected to continue to grow. Recently, a 2025 Victorian Government report highlighted that demand for registered nurses remains high, with an estimated 11,100 new nursing roles expected to be created between 2024 and 2027.
What major hospitals are located in Melbourne for postgraduate nursing graduates to work at?
Notable major hospitals in Melbourne include The Royal Melbourne Hospital, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, The Alfred Hospital, The Royal Women’s Hospital, Epworth Richmond and Monash Medical Centre.
The Royal Melbourne Hospital
One of the largest health providers in Australia, The Royal Melbourne Hospital employs over 4,000 nurses across its locations. Career opportunities span medical, surgical and care and support services, with each ward and unit supported by a clinical nurse educator. The hospital is a key partner of The University of Melbourne and also collaborates with Australian Catholic University, Deakin University, La Trobe University and Victoria University.
St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
As one of Australia’s most respected public healthcare providers, St Vincent’s Hospital employs over 5,000 staff and offers nursing careers across a wide range of specialties from critical care and acute surgical services to palliative care.
The Alfred Hospital
Part of Alfred Health, The Alfred is supported by a workforce of more than 4,500 nurses across diverse roles. Alfred Health provides one of the most comprehensive ranges of healthcare services in Victoria and partners with leading universities including La Trobe, Deakin and Monash. Nursing opportunities include working in areas such as cancer care, critical care, emergency care and cardiac care.
The Royal Women’s Hospital
Each year, the Royal Women’s Hospital provides around 250,000 episodes of care and delivers up to 7,000 babies. Nursing career paths at the hospital include specialising in areas such as sexual and reproductive health, neonatal care, maternity services, public fertility services, women’s health services and women’s emergency care. The hospital has been ranked among the top two metropolitan Melbourne health services for workplace culture and offers growth opportunities in women’s and newborn health.
Epworth Richmond
Epworth Richmond’s emergency department treats over 28,000 adults and children annually. Nursing roles are available across cardiac care, critical care, general surgery, midwifery, mental health, neuroscience, renal and more. The hospital also offers an extensive range of education, research and scholarship opportunities.
Monash Medical Centre
Part of Monash Health, the organisation employs over 7,500 nurses and midwives across its 42 campuses. Roles span across areas such as cancer care, cardiac care, emergency, surgical nursing, paediatrics and perioperative nursing. Monash Health also partners with universities such as Deakin, Monash, The University of Melbourne, Australian Catholic University and RMIT.
How much are nurses paid in Victoria?
While pay varies by role, registered nurses in Victoria typically earn between $80,000 to $95,000 annually. Below are indicative salary ranges for other nursing roles in Victoria listed from highest to lowest salary:
- Nurse practitioner: $145,000 to $150,000
- Nurse unit manager: $125,000 to $130,000
- Clinical nurse consultant: $115,000 to $125,000
- Nurse educator: $110,000 to $130,000
- Paediatric nurse: $105,000 to $125,000
- Clinical nurse: $105,000 to $115,000
- Clinical nurse specialist: $105,000 to $110,000
- Scrub nurse: $95,000 to $100,000
- Mental health nurse: $90,000 to $105,000
- Theatre nurse: $90,000 to $100,000
- Aged care nurse: $80,000 to $95,000
- Practice nurse: $80,000 to $85,000
Is it better to study a Master of Nursing in Melbourne or a rural area?
It depends on your priorities, lifestyle preferences and long-term career goals. Choose Melbourne if you want to have access to a wider range of resources, build a diverse professional network and take advantage of metropolitan job opportunities.
Choose a rural area if you want added benefits such as potential debt-reduction incentives, prefer a more personalised, community-oriented learning environment, value lower living costs and are interested in gaining the unique skills and experience that come with working as a nurse in a rural setting.
Advantages of studying a Master of Nursing in Melbourne
Close proximity and connections to major hospitals
Melbourne universities often have partnerships with leading hospitals such as The Royal Melbourne Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne. This means that you may benefit from guest lectures, joint research projects and networking with industry leaders. If you choose to work while studying, part-time employment opportunities are available in various major hospitals across Melbourne, allowing you to diversify your professional experience and strengthen your skill set while studying.
Access to high-ranking universities
Many Melbourne-based universities rank highly both nationally and internationally, which can enhance your academic profile and professional credibility. For example, La Trobe University is ranked #42 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 for nursing programs in Australia.
Networking and professional visibility
A metropolitan location provides greater opportunities to connect with peers, academics and healthcare leaders from varied backgrounds. Professional events, seminars and workshops may also be more frequent and accessible, helping you expand your career connections and gain broader industry insight.
Lifestyle and family considerations
For students with families, Melbourne provides greater access to employment options for partners and a wider choice of school and childcare services. It also offers a more vibrant lifestyle, blending cultural richness with lively entertainment.
Drawbacks of studying a Master of Nursing in Melbourne
Higher cost of living
Accommodation, transport and everyday expenses are significantly higher in Melbourne compared to rural areas. This can place a considerable financial burden on students, particularly if you’re studying full-time.
Increased competition for opportunities
While there may be more opportunities in a metropolitan location, there is also more competition. This can make it harder to secure highly sought-after positions.
Less personalised learning environment
City universities tend to have larger cohorts that make it more difficult to receive individualised attention. You may need to actively seek mentorship and support to make the most of your studies.
Time and stress of commuting
City traffic and crowded public transportation can result in long commutes and eat into the time you have for study, work and personal commitments.
Advantages of studying a a Master of Nursing in a rural area
Smaller class sizes and more personalised support
Rural universities often have smaller postgraduate cohorts, which can result in more direct interaction with lecturers, tailored feedback and a stronger sense of community. This can make for a more supportive and connected learning environment.
Potential financial incentives
Rural healthcare scholarships may be available to support students living and studying in regional areas. In addition, there are also rural workforce initiatives that may assist with finances. For example, the Australian Government’s rural medicine program offers a Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) debt reduction to nurse practitioners who work in rural areas.
Establish a broad skill set as a rural nurse
If you choose to work part-time while completing your Master of Nursing in a rural location, you may find the scope of work broader and more varied than in city-based roles. Due to the shortage of rural nurses, it may also be easier to find a job compared to residing in metropolitan Melbourne. Working in a rural setting also often comes with benefits such as housing support or relocation assistance.
Lower cost of living
Housing and daily expenses are generally more affordable in rural areas, helping to reduce financial pressure during your studies. Shorter commutes and a less hectic lifestyle can also make balancing study, work and personal life easier.
Potential drawbacks of studying a Master of Nursing in a rural area
Professional isolation and fewer networking opportunities
Living in a smaller community may mean limited access to large-scale networking events, conferences and specialised workshops. You may need to travel to metropolitan areas to attend these, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Limited on-campus facilities and resources
Rural campuses may not have the same scale of resources that larger metropolitan universities have. While many universities provide remote access to resources or partner with larger institutions to fill these gaps, the range and immediacy of facilities can still be more limited compared to city campuses.
Fewer specialised job roles
While rural areas often have strong demand for nursing roles, these positions may be more generalist in nature due to limited staffing and resources. If you’re aiming to work in a more specialised area of nursing, rural areas may not offer the range of opportunities you’re seeking.
Social and lifestyle differences
While some students thrive in a slower-paced environment, others may miss the variety of options found in a big city. For those accustomed to a city lifestyle, the change in pace may impact social wellbeing and mental health.
Comparing top Master of Nursing courses in Melbourne: Master of Nursing at La Trobe University vs Master of Nursing at Deakin University
In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, La Trobe University is ranked #42 and Deakin is ranked #51-100 for nursing programs in Australia.
| Master of Nursing at La Trobe University | Master of Nursing at Deakin University | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | At the Bundoora campus or online | At the Burwood, Waterfront, Warrnambool campus or online |
| Cost | Offers CSPs with an indicative price of $9,644 for the whole course or $61,200 for the full tuition fee | No CSPs available. The total cost is $61,500 |
| Duration | Two years full-time | 18 months full-time |
| Entry requirements | Must be a division one registered nurse, registered with Ahpra and employed in the relevant specialist area | Must have completed a research project, including a thesis which is equivalent to at least 25 per cent of a year’s full-time study at level eight of the Australian Qualifications Framework with a grade of 65 per cent or equivalent |
| Specialisations | Acute care, cardiac care, critical care, health management, leadership, medical imaging, neonatal care, neonatal special care, perioperative practices and public health | No specialisations as this is a higher degree by research course |
| Recognition of Prior Learning | Applicants with an Australian bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a cognate discipline can receive credit of up to 60 credit points. Applicants with an Australian postgraduate degree or an Australian honours degree in a cognate discipline may receive up to 120 credit points. Applicants with over two years of relevant work experience may be eligible to receive up to 60 credit points. | Not applicable for this course |
| Career outcomes | Clinical nurse manager, clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator, nurse researcher, director of nursing or a nurse specialising in acute care, cardiac care, critical care, medical imaging, perioperative practice or neonatal care | Suitable for those looking to work in research or academia |
Study a Master of Nursing course
Pursuing a Master of Nursing course in Melbourne can be a transformative step in your career. Whether you choose to study in the heart of Melbourne or regional Victoria, this qualification offers a pathway to broaden your impact, enhance your skills and contribute to the future of healthcare.
Additional postgraduate nursing courses in Victoria are also available on GlobalHealth Education. You can explore the range of graduate certificates, graduate diplomas and master’s level postgraduate nursing courses. Postgraduate courses are also offered in psychology, counselling, mental health, nursing, public health and social work. To apply, simply select a course and enquire to speak with a Student Enrolment Advisor.
Book a complimentary professional development strategy call with our Education Consultant, Catriona.
