Apply for Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing

GC-ACNUR

Acute Care Nursing

Graduate certificate

Advance your skills in clinical leadership and expand your career options in acute care nursing.

This offering version is phasing out and no longer taking applications. You may be able to apply for a later version.

Course outline
  • Qualification
    Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing
  • Duration

    Duration

    1 year part-time
  • Credit

    Credit

    100
  • CRICOS

    CRICOS

    108523J
Course outline

Outline

Outline

The Acute Care Nursing specialisation is available to study as a graduate certificate and as part of the Master of Advanced Practice.  

Key components include:

  • the theoretical foundations of nursing science and advanced clinical knowledge and skills of acute-care nursing 
  • pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and clinical decision-making for the health management of individuals with acute health conditions 
  • pharmacotherapeutics and quality use of medicines. 

In addition, this specialisation focuses on complex clinical decision-making, evidence-informed specialty practice, patient advocacy and holistic specialty practice. You will therefore develop skills in clinical leadership and the promotion and integration of evidence-based nursing practice. 

The Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing is offered as an online course studied on a part-time basis only, as concurrent employment is required. We recommend that you study one or two units per semester.  

Note: This graduate certificate  is not available to international students studying in Australia on a student visa.  

See our handbook for more information.

What you'll learn

  • analyse critically, and evaluate advanced concepts of acute care nursing practice; integrate knowledge and understanding to demonstrate competency at a level in accordance with the RN Standards for Practice
  • critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise the environmental, physical and psychosocial aspects of the individual for effective clinical decision making; recognise own abilities and level of professional competence
  • investigate, analyse and synthesise complex evidence and scientific literature to inform decision making in acute care practice
  • integrate communication skills within a legal and ethical framework related to acute care clinical issues; interpret and transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to the health care team
  • effectively anticipate, plan for and use technology applications relevant to acute care practice
  • integrate autonomous, expert judgement, adaptability and responsibility as a lifelong learner in acute care practice; participate in research and critically appraise research findings and incorporate evidence based knowledge into clinical practice
  • critically appraise, evaluate and incorporate national and global health issues and strategic health care directions into acute care practice
  • incorporate culturally aware and respectful acute care to multicultural groups and indigenous communities
  • incorporate advanced theoretical and specialist knowledge and judgment, including advanced leadership and autonomy into acute care practice; work professionally in acute care practice demonstrating judgement, leadership and independence as a nurse in acute care; act as an experienced positive role model to peers and other members of the healthcare team

Admission criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

Applicants must hold a bachelor degree and registration as a comprehensive or general nurse in Division One with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Prospective applicants should have a minimum of 12 months experience in a specialist area of practice, and must be concurrently employed in an approved area, working a minimum of 18-24 hours per week.

Credit for recognised learning (CRL)

Use your experience to get credit towards your degree

Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.

Fees and charges

Fee information is not available for this course at this time. Find estimated course fees.

Looking for more detail on the course structure?

View course structure
  • The offering information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.

    The information on this page may be subject to change. In particular, Curtin University may change the content, method or location of delivery or tuition fees of courses.

    While Curtin uses reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided on this page is accurate and up to date, errors and omissions sometimes occur. Curtin makes no warranty, representation or undertaking (expressed or implied) nor does it assume any legal liability (direct or indirect) for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information.

    View courses information disclaimer.

  • Curtin course code: GC-ACNUR
  • CRICOS code: 108523J
  • Last updated on: 27 March 2024

Got a question? We’re here to help.

Call 1300 222 888 Send us an email Ask us a question Book an appointment

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Specialisations

Bachelor of Commerce Specialisations

Bachelor of Innovation Specialisations

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Specialisations

Bachelor of Commerce Specialisations

Bachelor of Innovation Specialisations

Learn more about Commerce

Apply for Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing