University of the Sunshine Coast
1.5 years
The Master of Nursing (Clinical Leadership) prepares degree-qualified nurses for leadership, research, and advanced practice roles in healthcare. Delivered 100% online over 1.5 years, this program develops expertise in clinical leadership and project management for nurses seeking to advance their careers.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) in nursing from a recognised tertiary institution and be eligible to register as a Division 1 nurse in Australia. Registered nurses without a Bachelor qualification may be considered with extensive industry experience and Program Leader approval. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency at IELTS level 7 (no subtest below 7) or equivalent. Domestic students should meet the Grade Point Average requirements for Commonwealth Supported Place allocation.
The program comprises 144 units across specialised, required, and elective courses. Core specialised courses include Leadership in Clinical Practice, Learning and Teaching in the Practice Environment, and Research in Healthcare. Students select from qualitative or quantitative research methods and choose between a project-based pathway (evaluating or translating practice knowledge) or a research pathway with dedicated research projects. Four postgraduate elective courses (48 units) allow customisation, with at least 24 units from nursing, midwifery, or paramedicine options. The program structure supports flexible learning with study sequences for both project and research pathways.
The University of the Sunshine Coast is Queensland's number one public university for student support (Good Universities Guide 2026) and holds a 5-star rating for teaching quality. UniSC offers flexible, fully online delivery allowing nurses to balance study with professional commitments. The university provides substantial government funding through Commonwealth Supported Places, reducing fees by over 50% for eligible domestic students. Faculty members bring lived experience and genuine commitment to adult learners, creating a supportive learning environment for postgraduate nursing students.
Graduates are prepared for clinical leadership roles in healthcare organisations, including positions as clinical educators, practice leaders, and advanced practice nurses. The program develops research capabilities, enabling graduates to contribute to healthcare innovation and quality improvement initiatives. Career opportunities span government health services, private healthcare providers, not-for-profit organisations, and academic institutions. Graduates may pursue further doctoral studies or specialised clinical roles requiring advanced expertise and leadership capabilities.
Course fee
Start date
You will be redirected to the training provider to enquire directly. Workinitiatives is not the course or training provider. We aggregate and list courses only.