Australia has become one of the most sought-after study destinations for international nursing students. Known for its world-class universities, advanced healthcare system, and high demand for qualified nurses, Australia offers the perfect blend of academic excellence and real-world career opportunities.
A nursing degree from an Australian university is globally recognized, allowing graduates to pursue rewarding careers both within Australia and across the world. Whether you aspire to work in hospitals, community care, aged care, or specialized fields such as mental health or midwifery, Australia’s nursing education equips you with the skills, knowledge, and professional accreditation needed to succeed.
book a free consultation with LCI Group today and begin your application for the upcoming intakes.
Top Nursing Universities in Australia (QS Ranking by Subject 2025)
| Global Rank | University Name | Location |
| =20 | The University of Sydney | Sydney |
| 24 | Monash University | Melbourne |
| 25 | The University of Melbourne | Melbourne |
| 26 | University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | Sydney |
| 33 | Griffith University | Nathan |
| =42 | La Trobe University | Melbourne |
| =42 | Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | Brisbane |
| 45 | The University of Queensland (UQ) | Brisbane City |
| =47 | The University of Newcastle (UON) | Callaghan |
| 51–100 | Curtin University | Perth |
1. The University of Sydney
Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Rank: =20 | Overall Score: 85.2 | Employer Reputation: 90
The University of Sydney’s Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery is among the most prestigious in Australia. The curriculum combines evidence-based research, hands-on clinical placements, and strong links with healthcare institutions such as the Sydney Local Health District.
Top Highlights:
- Offers both undergraduate and postgraduate pathways in nursing and midwifery.
- Emphasis on clinical leadership and patient-centered care.
- Accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC).
2. Monash University
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Rank: 24 | Overall Score: 84.7 | Employer Reputation: 83
Monash University’s nursing programs are internationally recognized for research innovation and global partnerships. Students gain clinical experience across hospitals in Melbourne and international exchange opportunities.
Why Choose Monash:
- Strong focus on healthcare innovation and technology.
- Pathways to Master of Advanced Clinical Nursing and Nurse Practitioner programs.
- High graduate employability in both domestic and international markets.
3. The University of Melbourne
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Rank: 25 | Overall Score: 84.4 | Employer Reputation: 87.2
The Melbourne School of Health Sciences delivers a globally ranked nursing curriculum that blends clinical training with advanced medical research. Students learn from leading professionals and gain exposure through placements in major Victorian hospitals.
Course Highlights:
- Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Clinical Nursing programs available.
- Extensive research focus on chronic illness, ageing, and community health.
- Postgraduate options for leadership and nurse education roles.
4. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Rank: 26 | Overall Score: 84.3 | Employer Reputation: 73.3
UTS is renowned for its practice-based learning model. Its simulation labs and partnerships with major hospitals ensure graduates are job-ready from day one.
Program Highlights:
- Strong focus on digital healthcare and nursing informatics.
- Option to specialize in mental health, paediatric, or aged care nursing.
- 96% employment rate within six months of graduation.
5. Griffith University
Location: Nathan, Queensland
Rank: 33 | Overall Score: 82.6 | Employer Reputation: 67.7
Griffith University is known for its strong focus on community-based and rural healthcare training. Students gain practical exposure through partnerships with Queensland Health and the Royal Brisbane Hospital.
Highlights:
- Flexible entry pathways for international students.
- Dual-degree options with public health and midwifery.
- Emphasis on research-led learning and evidence-based care.
6. La Trobe University
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Rank: =42 | Overall Score: 80.9 | Employer Reputation: 65.9
La Trobe’s nursing programs emphasize compassionate care, leadership, and community engagement. Its clinical placement network extends across public and private healthcare providers in Victoria.
Why Choose La Trobe:
- Advanced simulation labs and virtual healthcare training.
- Scholarships available for international students.
- Pathways for registration as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia.
7. Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
Rank: =42 | Overall Score: 80.9 | Employer Reputation: 73.4
QUT combines strong clinical placement opportunities with research excellence in areas such as aged care, chronic disease, and indigenous health.
Highlights:
- State-of-the-art simulation facilities.
- Flexible degree options and postgraduate pathways.
- Ranked among the top universities for graduate employability in healthcare.
8. The University of Queensland (UQ)
Location: Brisbane City, Queensland
Rank: 45 | Overall Score: 80.3 | Employer Reputation: 77.6
UQ’s School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work emphasizes innovation, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are highly sought after both in Australia and overseas.
Program Strengths:
- Integration of global health and evidence-based care.
- Extensive clinical placements through Queensland Health.
- Opportunities for research and PhD pathways.
9. The University of Newcastle (UON)
Location: Callaghan, New South Wales
Rank: =47 | Overall Score: 80.1 | Employer Reputation: 68.9
UON offers high-quality nursing education with a focus on rural and regional healthcare. Its Bachelor of Nursing program is known for high clinical hours and strong graduate outcomes.
Highlights:
- Strong community engagement and applied research.
- Pathway programs for international students.
- Dedicated support for international placements and internships.
10. Curtin University
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Rank: 51–100 | Employer Reputation: 64.7
Curtin’s School of Nursing is one of Western Australia’s oldest and most respected institutions. Students gain real-world experience through clinical rotations in hospitals across Perth.
Why Curtin:
- Research strengths in public health and mental health nursing.
- Innovative simulation-based training.
- High rate of nursing registration among graduates.
Why Choose Australia for Nursing Studies?
1. Global Recognition and Accreditation
Australian nursing degrees are recognized by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and are accepted in many other countries. Graduates can pursue international careers with ease.
2. Strong Job Market and PR Pathways
Australia faces a high demand for nurses, particularly in aged care, rural health, and mental health sectors. Nursing is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), providing graduates with opportunities for permanent residency (PR) after gaining relevant work experience.
3. Practical Training and Industry Links
Most universities in Australia partner with major hospitals and community health organizations, ensuring students gain clinical experience from year one.
4. High Earning Potential
Registered Nurses in Australia earn an average salary of AUD 70,000–95,000 per year, depending on experience and specialization.
5. Student Support and Multicultural Environment
Australian universities provide strong academic and emotional support for international students. Nursing cohorts are diverse, allowing you to learn in a globally inclusive setting.
Employment Opportunities for International Students
International nursing students in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during breaks, providing valuable exposure to healthcare environments.
After graduation, you can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to gain post-study work experience, a crucial step toward AHPRA registration and PR eligibility.
In-demand roles include:
- Registered Nurse (Acute Care, ICU, or Emergency)
- Aged Care Nurse
- Mental Health Nurse
- Midwife
- Community Health Worker
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
Types of Nursing Specializations Available in Australia
Australian universities offer a wide range of nursing specializations at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including:
- Adult Nursing
- Child and Family Health Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Midwifery
- Aged Care Nursing
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Clinical Leadership and Education
These specializations allow students to align their studies with specific career goals and healthcare interests.
Studying Nursing in Australia
Studying nursing in Australia opens doors to global healthcare careers, permanent residency pathways, and lifelong professional growth. With top-ranked universities and industry-driven learning, Australia remains a premier destination for aspiring nurses worldwide.
Ready to take the next step? Register for a free consultation with LCI Group’s experts and begin your application for the 2026 intakes!
FAQs:
Q1. What are the eligibility requirements to study nursing in Australia?
A. You’ll typically need a minimum of 12 years of schooling, IELTS score of 7.0 (with no band less than 6.5), and meet academic prerequisites in biology and chemistry.
Q2. How long does it take to complete a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia?
A. Most undergraduate nursing programs last 3 years full-time, with integrated clinical placements.
Q3. Can international nursing graduates apply for permanent residency in Australia?
A. Yes. Nursing is on the MLTSSL, allowing graduates to apply for PR after completing post-study work experience.
Q4. What is the cost of studying nursing in Australia?
A. Tuition fees range from AUD 32,000 to 48,000 per year, depending on the university and program level.
Q5. Is it difficult to get nursing registration in Australia?
A. Not if you graduate from an ANMAC-accredited nursing program. LCI Group can assist you with AHPRA registration and documentation.