Program summary

Program title: Bachelor of Nursing Science
Award abbreviation: BNursSc
QTAC code: 013401
OP/Rank for 2011 entry: OP-13 / Rank-74
Duration: 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Commence: Semester 1 only
Recommended prior study: English; Maths A, B or C; and at least one of the sciences
Recommended prior preparation: Criminal History check, Hepatitis B immunisation, First Aid and CPR training (refer to Program requirements)
Fee type 2011: Commonwealth supported places, visiting non-award domestic places, international fee-paying places
Total units: 288
USC program code: SC391
CRICOS code: 058567D. Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student Visa, and an IELTS of 7 must be demonstrated.

Highlights

• Benefit from an intensive clinical placement program
• Connect with regional health services
• Follow with postgraduate study to specialise in midwifery, mental health, emergency advanced practice

Make a difference in the lives of others with a degree in nursing science.

This 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. The program prepares nurses who are life-long learners, critical and creative thinkers and are able to care and contribute to the health of the population and the profession of nursing. You can complete a mental health major. Graduates achieve the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council Standards for Registered Nurses.

Post-admission requirements

Before undertaking clinical placement you are required to obtain and maintain a current First Aid and CPR Certificate, provide evidence of Hepatitis B vaccination, undergo a National Criminal History Check and obtain a Suitability Card. Refer to Program requirements and notes.

Career opportunities

Nurse in acute care, armed forces, community, rural, mental health, Indigenous health, aged care and industry settings.

Professional recognition

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Graduates may also become members of the Royal College of Nursing Australia.

Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) - Registration

For professional registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), graduates are required to demonstrate English language skills at IELTS level 7 or equivalent. Test results from relevant examinations will generally need to be obtained within two years prior to applying for registration. For current information about AHPRA registration go to http://www.ahpra.gov.au/

Study Plan

This Study Plan is valid from Study Period 1, 2011.

For students who commenced study in this program prior to Study Period 1, 2011:

• Find the Student Handbook for the semester in which you commenced.
• Select the program in which you are enrolled.
• Either scroll down to the Program Structure, or select the Recommended Enrolment Pattern link.

Program requirements

In order to graduate you must:

• Complete all courses as listed below.
• (Optional) Select a Mental Health Major, after consultation with the Program Leader.
• Register any selected Majors with Student Administration.

In order to commence clinical placement you must:

• Hold a valid Suitability Card (Blue Card), throughout the duration of your program, which is issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian (CCYPCG). You should allow 12 weeks for CCYPCG to issue the card. Note: students who do not possess a valid Blue Card will be unable to complete the clinical practice component of their program and will be unable to meet graduation requirements.
• Have a National Criminal History check (by Queensland Police Service or other state/territory authority).
• Show evidence of complete Hepatitis B vaccination (3 inoculations over a period of six months).
• Hold a current First Aid and CPR certificate from an organisation recognised by the Australian Resuscitation Council.
• Travel to attend clinical placements.
• Have a level of computer literacy, including word processing and email.

Program notes

• Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses).
• Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods.
• As part of your USC program, you may apply to participate in the Global Opportunities (GO) Program to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider. It is advisable to contact your Program Advisor to discuss timing and course issues.
• Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa.

Program structure

Year 1

Required courses: (8)

Please note: COR109 should be studied in Semester 1.

Year 2

Required courses: (8)

Year 3

Required courses: (6)

Please note: NUR300 must be studied in Semester 2.

Elective course: (1)
Select 1 elective course from:

TOTAL UNITS 288

The University attempts to ensure this information is accurate and up-to-date. However, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary program/course information at any time without notice.

Enquiries

How to apply

Faculty of Science, Health and Education
Tel: +61 7 5456 5005
Email: nursing@usc.edu.au

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