Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Bridging and Re-entry)

The Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Bridging and Re-entry) is an approved course by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). It is designed to enable returning nurses to attain the necessary level of practice in accordance with the Australian nursing standards. The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) has been offering bridging and re-entry programs for more than 17 years and our curriculum is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and Tertiary Education Quality Standards Agency (TEQSA). Please note the Bridging pathway for internationally qualified nurses is no longer available.

Course overview

This course is a comprehensive, contemporary, and clinically relevant Graduate Certificate in Nursing and runs for a total of 12 weeks full-time study. Delivery of the course consists of face-to-face, simulation, and self-directed learning, online activities, and clinical placement components.

Our course consists of two (2) core units of study:

• 304 – Professional Nursing Concepts in Australian Health Care Context
• 305 – Clinical Nursing Practice in the Australian Healthcare Context

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

• critically evaluate nursing practice against the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice
• demonstrate capability for practice within an evidence-based framework
• evaluate delivery of care across the lifespan in the context of the contemporary Australian healthcare system
• analyse effective communication within a multicultural and multidisciplinary approach to safe practice
• critically reflect upon legal and ethical standards that underpin professional nursing practice
• examine leadership behaviours that contribute to an effective team culture.

Why study this course

Our course has been developed by specialist nurses, industry experts and clinical stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition into contemporary nursing practice. Throughout the course, you will be supported by experienced academics, clinical facilitators, and skilled clinicians. We will assist you to further develop knowledge and skills in academic writing, simulation-based critical thinking and professional experience placements.

Where this qualification can take you

In addition to gaining nursing registration in Australia, our Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Bridging and Re-entry) is an investment in your future and will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure better outcomes for people in your care while facilitating further progression of your career. It will also provide you with a postgraduate qualification rendering the pathway towards higher degrees.