Adelaide University
0.5 year part-time
This graduate certificate equips registered nurses with advanced skills in mental health nursing, emphasizing trauma-informed and person-centred care. Study flexibly online while continuing to work, and prepare for roles in acute and community mental health settings or further postgraduate study.
Applicants must hold a completed bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher from a recognised higher education institution and hold or be eligible to hold registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). International students must meet English language requirements including IELTS Overall 7 (Reading 7, Listening 7, Speaking 7, Writing 7) or equivalent qualifications obtained within the last two years prior to admission. International students must undertake this program primarily on campus with only limited online study permitted under visa requirements.
The program comprises 24 units of study covering core and elective courses. Core courses include Perspectives in Mental Health Practice, Skills for Recovery Practice in Mental Health, and Perinatal Mental Health for Health Professionals. Elective options allow specialization in areas such as Best Practice in Adolescent Mental Health, Best Practice in Older People's Mental Health, Primary Health Care, Leadership and Management in Nursing and Midwifery, Infection Prevention and Control in Practice, Comprehensive Care of the Older Person, Advanced Health Assessment, Diagnostics and Investigations, and Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Nursing Practice. The curriculum emphasizes person-centred and trauma-informed care across diverse settings including metropolitan, rural and remote communities, with theoretical and practical approaches to mental health nursing.
Adelaide University delivers nation-leading curriculum with experienced academics and specialist teaching staff grounded in evidence-based practice and real-world application. The program is informed by contemporary research and the National Mental Health Workforce Strategy, addressing critical workforce shortages in Australia's mental health sector. The university provides flexible online and part-time study options allowing working nurses to advance their expertise while maintaining professional practice, supported by comprehensive student services and modern learning facilities.
Graduates are prepared for roles in both public and private healthcare settings including mental health inpatient units, community health services, and residential programs. Career opportunities include Mental Health Nurse Consultant, Case Manager, Clinical Coordinator, and Mental Health Program Facilitator. With Australia facing a projected 60% shortfall in mental health nurses by 2030, graduates enter a field with strong employment demand and career advancement opportunities. The qualification also provides a pathway to further postgraduate study including the Graduate Diploma in Nursing or Master of Nursing specialising in Mental Health.