Program summary
Program overview
Career opportunities
Advanced standing, recognition of prior learning, credit and articulation
Program structure
Program requirements and notes
Enquiries
Recommended enrolment pattern
Program summary
QTAC code: 013411
OP/Rank for 2007 entry: new program (not previously offered)
Award abbreviation: BNursScGE
Duration: 2 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Total units: 192
Fee type: to be advised
Recommended prior study: completion of an undergraduate degree (unspecified) or equivalent study that has lead to registration as a nurse.
Commence: Semester 1 only
CRICOS code: to be advised
Program overview
This accelerated program is designed for individuals who have gained an undergraduate degree (in any discipline), or, through prior study, has met professional competence to apply for registration as a nurse. This program builds upon prior knowledge and skills, and offers quality learning and practice opportunities through which participants can meet their career aspirations. The program has a philosophical foundation based on caring and community engagement, a strong foundation in science, and emphasises the integral nature of clinical experience to the development of competence in nursing.
This program will prepare nurses who are lifelong learners, critical and creative thinkers and are able to care and contribute to the health of the population and the profession of nursing. Graduates seeking initial registration will demonstrate achievement of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council Standards for Registered Nurses and be eligible to apply for registration as a nurse in Queensland.
Career opportunities
Following registration, initial nursing graduates will be able to develop a career as a professional nurse in Queensland, interstate and some overseas countries in acute care (public or private hospitals in metropolitan, regional, interstate and overseas), in the community (domiciliary nursing, community health), in rural areas (hospitals, community nursing, flight nursing), in industry (mining, service, manufacturing, correctional services). Other graduates who have achieved professional entry to practice will find increased opportunities to develop their career within nursing.
As a lifelong learner, this foundation degree can lead the graduate to further study to develop careers in midwifery, nursing specialities (mental health, intensive care, emergency, perioperative nursing), research, management or education.
Professional membership
Graduates seeking initial registration will be eligible to apply for Registration as a Nurse in Queensland with the Queensland Nursing Council. (Reciprocal registration eligibility with other Australian States and Territories).
Students and graduates are eligible to apply for membership to the Royal College of Nursing Australia (affiliated with the International Council of Nurses).
Program structure
Introductory courses
1 required course:
NUR141 Nursing, Assessment and Technology
Advanced courses
13 required courses:
NUR221 Human Pathophysiology
NUR231 Disease Management and Control
NUR241 Caring Practice: Health Alteration
NUR211 Caring Practice: Nursing Practicum 2
NUR301 Caring Practice: Challenges to Mental Health
NUR331 Caring Practice: Acute Health Alteration
NUR311 Caring Practice: Nursing Practicum 4
NUR212 Caring Practice: Child, Youth and Family Care
NUR222 Caring Communities: Professional Studies 2
NUR272 Continuing, Rehabilitative and Palliative Care
NUR202 Caring Practice: Nursing Practicum 3
NUR300 Caring Practice: Nursing Internship (24 units)
NUR332 Caring Communities: Transcultural Health Practices
Electives
Plus select 1 elective course from:
NUR312 Caring Practice: Life Crisis
NUR322 Caring Practice: The Child Client
Course substitution: the GO (Global Opportunities) Program
As part of their USC program, students may apply to participate in the GO Program to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider.
Program requirements and notes
- A current first aid certificate from an organisation recognised by the Australian Resuscitation Council is required by the end of Semester 1.
- Evidence of Hepatitis B vaccination is required before commencing clinical practice in Semester 2.
A level of computer literacy is required including word processing and email.
Refer to the Academic Rules.
Refer to explanation of terms.
Refer to the recommended enrolment pattern.
Enquiries
Faculty of Science, Health and Education
Tel: +61 7 5430 2869, Email: scienceinfo@usc.edu.au
* The Bachelor of Nursing Science: Graduate Entry has been approved by the University of the Sunshine Coast. Accreditation is currently being sought from the Queensland Nursing Council.
