Master's in Nursing programs in Australia

There are 20 nursing roles in the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) in Australia. Most of these are in the SOL for all states in the country, according to the Department of Home Affairs. 

Nursing roles are also in the Health Care and Social Assistance industry. This is the largest and fastest-growing industry in Australia. 

By 2034, the health care industry is expected to create 585,800 new jobs (Jobs and Skills Australia). 

Due to its high demand, nursing is one of the strongest PR pathways for international students in Australia.

And studying for a master's degree can even increase your chances of employability and migration opportunities.

Curious to know more? This article will dive deep into the different master’s in nursing courses in Australia, their costs, duration, IELTS score requirements, and more. 

The IELTS score required for Master’s in Nursing programs is the same score you’ll need when registering as a nurse in Australia.

So, it’s not just for university, it’s for your entire career.

That’s why choosing the right English test matters.

When you’re aiming for a nursing career, you don’t want surprises. You need a test that’s reliable, trusted, and recognised by nursing programs, registration boards, and employers.

IELTS gives you that confidence. It accurately assesses real-life communication skills and has remained consistent over time, so you always know what you’re working towards.

Not all Master’s in Nursing programs are the same. Choosing the right one depends on your background and your career goals. Whether you're completely new to nursing or you're already a qualified nurse looking to advance, there's a program designed for you.

Here's a quick guide to the most common types:

Master of Nursing Science

• For: Non-nurses from any academic background

• Leads to: RN (Registered Nurse) 

• Ideal if: You want to switch careers and become a nurse

Master of Clinical Nursing

• For: Non-nurses with a health-related degree (e.g. biomedical science)

• Leads to: RN registration

• Ideal if: You have a health science background but now want to become a nurse

• Notes: Similar to Nursing Science, but may have a different course structure depending on the university

Master of Advanced Nursing / Master of Nursing (Specialisation)

• For: Qualified nurses (RNs) with a nursing degree

• Leads to: Advanced clinical roles, leadership, or education

• Ideal if: You want to deepen your expertise or move into senior nursing roles

Master of Nurse Practitioner

• For: Experienced RNs with a postgraduate qualification

• Leads to: Nurse Practitioner registration (expanded scope of practice)

• Ideal if: You want to diagnose, prescribe, and manage patient care at an advanced level

• Notes: Requires years of clinical experience before entry

The IELTS score required for Master's in Nursing programs in Australia is 7.0 overall, and 7.0 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).

These requirements can vary per university.

Thinking about applying for a Master’s in Nursing in Australia? Your entry requirements will depend on your academic and professional background. Here’s a quick guide to help you find where you fit:

If you have no prior nursing qualification

You’ll need to apply for an entry-to-practice program like the Master of Nursing Science or Master of Nursing Practice. These programs are designed for students from non-nursing backgrounds. Entry requirements usually include:

• A bachelor’s degree in any field

• Meeting the English language requirement (e.g., IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with no band lower than 7.0)

• A personal statement or interview (at some universities)

• Ability to meet clinical placement requirements (e.g., immunisations, police checks)

If you’re already a registered nurse (RN)

You may be eligible for advanced programs like the Master of Nursing, Master of Advanced Nursing Practice, or Master of Advanced Clinical Nursing.

Entry requirements typically include:

• A Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent

• Current registration as a nurse in Australia or your home country

• Minimum work experience (some programs require 1–2 years)

• Meeting the English language requirement (IELTS Academic 7.0 overall, no band less than 7.0)

Bonus tip:

Some programs may accept international equivalents or offer bridging options. Always check directly with your chosen university for the most accurate and updated requirements.

Know your exact entry requirements

Still unsure if your degree or experience is eligible? That’s completely normal.

Australia’s nursing education system can be confusing, especially when every university has different entry rules. If you’re not sure which course is right for you or whether you meet the criteria, there’s help available.

At IDP, our expert counsellors can check your qualifications, explain your best-fit options, and guide you step-by-step through the application process.

Check your eligibility

Here’s something many students overlook: your English test can influence how smoothly your application and registration process goes. Not all tests provide the same clarity or recognition.

IELTS is widely accepted by top Australian universities and healthcare registration bodies. It reflects the real communication skills nurses need and uses a stable, transparent scoring system—no sudden changes, no surprises.

If you want a smoother path to your degree, registration, and future nursing career, your success starts with IELTS. You can access FREE prep tools, expert support, and book your test all in one place.

Sources:

• Department of Home Affairs, Jobs and Skills Australia Employment Projections, Jobs and Skills Australia: Registered Nurses. Jobs and Skills Australia Occupation Shortage List, Master of Nursing - USQ, USYD, UniMelb, UQ