Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115)

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• Explore our campus and see the facilities available to you.
• Learn more about Mater Education's range of healthcare courses.
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• Submit your application to study!

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South Brisbane Campus
Raymond Terrace
South Brisbane QLD 4101

Townsville Campus
21 - 37 Fulham Road
Pimlico QLD 4812

To be accepted into Mater Education's Diploma of Nursing program, applicants must:

• be a minimum of 18 years of age or older upon completion of the  qualification

_{Please note—​students entering into an 18 month full–time qualification must be 16 years and 6 months old on day one the first day of the course.}

• additional entry requirement for school leavers, including a pass in English and Math at year 10 level (a school leaver is defined as a young person who is about to leave school who has left school in the previous year).
• hold a current, nationally recognised certificate in: HLTAID003 Provide First Aid with HLTAID001 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. First Aid and CPR certificates must be current for the duration of enrolment in the program;
• be eligible to obtain a Blue Card if required;
• undertake a criminal history check at enrolment and if required for workplace placement, at 12 months post enrolment and 24 months post enrolment for part time students;
• have an up to date immunisation/vaccination record;
• have basic computer skills;
• demonstrate a high level of literacy and numeracy skills at or above Exit Level 3 of the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF);
• understand and meet the Inherent Requirements outlining the behaviours, capabilities, knowledge and skills required to successfully complete the program;
• provide evidence of meeting at least one of the English language standards (listed below) prior to enrolment;
• laptop or portable device with internet access.

 Read more about resource requirements here.

 

English language standards

To register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as an Enrolled Nurse, you must meet the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA)'s English language skills registration standard requirements at the time of your enrolment. Mater Education will only enrol students into the Diploma of Nursing program who meet the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia’s English Language Standards via one of the pathways listed below.

To identify which of the pathways below is applicable to you, please review the English Language Skills flow chart.

1. 1. Primary language pathway

At least six years of primary and secondary education taught and assessed in English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, United Kingdom or United States of America, including at least two years between years 7 and 12.  

1. 2. Test pathway

• IELTS (academic module)—We only accept test results:
  • from one test sitting, or
  • a maximum of two test sittings in a six month period only if:
    • you achieve a minimum overall score of 7 in each sitting, and
    • you achieve a minimum score of 7 in each component across the two sittings, and
    • no score in any component of the test is below 6.5.

 

• OET—We will only accept test results:
  • from one test sitting, or
  • a maximum of two test sittings in a six month period only if:
    • you are tested in all four components in each sitting, and
    • you achieve a minimum score of B in each component across the two sittings, and
    • no score in any component of the test is below C.

 

• PTE Academic—We will only accept test results:
  • from one test sitting, or
  • a maximum of two test sittings in a six month period only if:
    • a minimum overall score of 65 is achieved in each sitting, and
    • you achieve a minimum score of 65 in each of the communicative skills across the two sittings, and
    • no score in any of the communicative skills is below 58.

 

• TOEFL iBT—We will only accept test results:
  • from one test sitting, or
  • a maximum of two test sittings in a six month period only if:
    • a minimum total score of 94 is achieved in each sitting, and you achieve a minimum score of 24 for listening, 24 for reading, 27 for writing and 23 for  speaking across the two sittings, and
    • no score in any of the sections is below:
      • 20 for listening
      • 19 for reading
      • 24 for writing
      • 20 for speaking.

1. 3. Extended education pathway

• 4 years* (full time equivalent) of education taught and assessed in English, in any of the recognised countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, United States of America, Canada, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom).

NOTE: Mater Education will only accept the following:

• vocational and secondary education taught and assessed in English; or
• tertiary and vocational education taught and assessed in English; or
• combined tertiary, secondary and vocational education taught and assessed in English; or
• tertiary education taught and assessed in English.

 

For more information please refer to the English language skills registration standard policy for nurses and midwives on the AHPRA website.

If you have any questions about enrolled nurse registration, or would like more information, use AHPRA's Online Enquiry Form or call them on 1300 419 495.

Mater Education wants everyone enrolled in the program to have the best opportunity to succeed at their study. Our dynamic program is delivered in a way that caters to all learning styles, and our selection process is designed to set our students up for success.

Application process for HLT54115 Diploma of Nursing
Before applying, please ensure you have thoroughly read and understood the "Admission requirements & eligibility" information above. Mater Education will only enrol students who meet these eligibility requirements.
 

1. Apply online

To apply, you will need to complete an online application form, highlighting:

• Your motivation to pursue a career in nursing.
• Why you think the Mater Education program would suit you.
• How you plan to balance your life, work and full-time study commitments
• Your education history and work (including volunteer) experience.

Applicants who successfully address these requirements will progress to the next stage
 

2. Demonstrate competence in reading and numeracy

To advance to the selection stage, applicants must complete the Safe Work Resources VFH LLN Assessment Tool online tests for reading and numeracy. A competence at or above Exit Level 3 of the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) is required for both reading and numeracy.

Students will be advised as soon as practicable after assessment of the outcome of their test and that information will be provided to the Secretary, Department of Education and Training in the form, manner and by the time requested by the Secretary.
 

3. Attend interview and written exam

Successful applicants will then be invited to participate in an interview and written examination. 

Mater Education ensures all potential students are treated fairly and equally in this process.

Nurses need to be responsible, practical, physically fit and mentally alert. That doesn’t mean that you need to run marathons, but you do need to be able to carry out all the physical activities associated with nursing to complete the course.

This process allows us to take into account the different ways these attributes can be demonstrated and indicate a student’s potential to succeed in the course.

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If you are offered a place:

Certificates and permits

• Criminal History Check
  Confirmation of your enrolment is subject to the completion of a criminal history check (Fit2Work).

• Blue Card
  A Blue Card may be required to complete workplace experience placement in child related areas of practice. If required, you will need to obtain a Blue Card. This is free for students and can be discussed at the interview stage.

• AHPRA Registration and Eligibility Criteria (see "Admission Requirements & Eligibility")
  You’ll need to consider AHPRAs registration requirements before you apply:

  • Application for general registration as a nurse or midwife for students completing an approved program of study: ASGR-40
  • Supporting Documentation for Graduate Applications
  • AHPRA's Criminal History Standard
  • NMBA's English Language Skills Registration Standard

Upon application for registration with AHPRA, graduates must provide results of a formal English language skills test (as required by NMBA). Mater Education will only enrol students who meet the eligibility requirements of the English language skills registration standard as required by the NMBA.

If you have any questions about enrolled nurse registration, or would like more information, use AHPRA's Online Enquiry Form or call them on 1300 419 495.

 

Immunisation

You must currently be immunised or in the process of being vaccinated (or be willing and able to immediately start the process of vaccination), for the following communicable diseases:

• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (chicken pox)
• MMR (measles, mumps and rubella)
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Seasonal vaccinations (influenza) as required.

If you need to update your vaccinations or obtain a record of your immunisation history, see your GP. A blood test may be required to confirm your immunisation status. Students will be responsible for any costs associated with obtaining vaccinations.
 

First aid

Applicants are required to provide evidence of successful completion of HLTAID003 Provide first aid prior to enrolment. All enrolled students must maintain currency of HLTAID003 Provide first aid for the duration of the course, including annual completion of HLTAID001 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.

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Transitioning students

We understand how a change in circumstances can mean looking for other ways to complete your studies.

If you’ve previously been enrolled in a Diploma of Nursing program at another Registered Training Organisation, and wish to transition into Mater Education's program, you may be able to apply for entry into semester two or three.

In addition to the selection and application process outlined above, you’ll also need to submit:

• an academic transcript from your current/previous provider showing your completed units of competency
• evidence of workplace experience placement.

If you don’t have your academic transcript yet, you’ll need to provide that evidence before your enrolment can be accepted.

Not all Diploma of Nursing programs are the same. Our Faculty will review your documentation to determine your eligibility for entry into our program. You may be asked to undertake some gap training, which may attract additional fees.

If you’d like to learn more about this course and future course offerings, please submit the form below.

 

Placement areas

Workplace experience placements consolidate your knowledge within the real nursing environment, applying theory to practice. These occur following theory and simulation each semester and are predominately facilitated on campus at Mater. It is a requirement that all workplace experience placements for the Diploma of Nursing are undertaken in Queensland. 

Mater Education has a dedicated Work Experience Placement Coordinator who will make arrangements for your mandatory placement as part of this program.

You can undertake workplace experience placement in specialities including:

• acute medical
• acute surgical
• aged care
• rehabilitation
• orthopaedics
• oncology
• perioperative
• maternity
• paediatrics
• community and at home care services.

Notes

• Placement may include day, evening and/or weekend shifts; shifts and days will change each semester.
• Allocation of placement may vary according to the acuity of the hospital and selection of elective units of competency.
• While we make every effort to ensure each student secures the electives of their choice, Mater Education reserves the right to allocate electives according to availability and the academic capabilities of individual students.
• Placement must be undertaken in Queensland.

Placement guide

Semester 1 = 120 hours of workplace experience placement
Semester 2 = 120 hours of workplace experience placement
Semester 3 = 160 hours of workplace experience placement (inclusive of elective subject learning hours)

After successfully completing the program, you can apply for National Registration and a licence to practice as an enrolled nurse through:

• the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
• the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).

We recommend students apply for registration four to six weeks before completing the course.

Please note, your tuition fees must be up to date to receive your Diploma qualification and register with AHPRA. If receipt of your qualification is delayed, you may need to pay additional registration fees to AHPRA.

If you have any questions about enrolled nurse registration, or would like more information, use the AHPRA's Online Enquiry Form or call them on 1300 419 495.

Applicants are required to provide evidence of successful completion of HLTAID003 Provide first aid prior to enrolment. All enrolled students must maintain currency of HLTAID003 Provide first aid for the duration of the course, including annual completion of HLTAID001 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.

HLT54115 Diploma of Nursing is comprised of 20 core units and five elective units:

Core units

HLTAAP002 Confirm physical health status
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to obtain and interpret information about client health status and to check a client’s physical health. It requires a detailed knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to evaluate and enhance own practice through a process of reflection and ongoing professional development.

HLTENN001 Practise nursing within the Australian health care system
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to practise as a nursing professional within the Australian health care system, providing health care across the lifespan of people in a range of health and community care services or environments.

HLTINF001 Comply with infection prevention and control policies and procedures
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to follow organisational infection prevention and control procedures, including implementing standard and transmission-based precautions and responding to infection risks.

HLTWHS002 Follow safe work practices for direct client care
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for a worker to participate in safe work practices to ensure their own health and safety, and that of others in work environments that involve caring directly for clients. It has a focus on maintaining safety of the worker, the people being supported and other community members.

HLTENN002 Apply communication skills in nursing practice
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply effective communication skills with a person, family or carer and with other healthcare professionals in a variety of health care settings.

HLTENN003 Perform clinical assessment and contribute to planning nursing care
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required, within the scope of practice, to perform preliminary and ongoing physical health assessments of all body systems, gathering data that contributes to a person’s individualised health care plan.

HLTENN013 Implement and monitor care of the older person
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to perform nursing interventions to support the social and emotional wellbeing and nursing care needs of the older person in both acute care settings and residential care environments.

CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety
The unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety issues in the workplace, model cultural safety in own work practice, and develop strategies to enhance cultural safety.

HLTENN015 Apply nursing practice in the primary health care setting
This unit describes the nursing skills and knowledge required to work in a primary health care environment including community-based, educational, occupational and informal settings, and in general practice. 
Primary health care involves a person-centred and holistic approach to health care. It is made accessible to people by being located as close as possible to where they live, and supporting their full participation in a spirit of self-reliance and self-determination.

HLTENN007 Administer and monitor medicines and intravenous therapy
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to administer and monitor medications and intravenous (IV) therapy including calculating dosage requirements, interpreting written instructions from an authorised prescriber, assessing the person for medication effectiveness and side effects, and responding to an allergic pharmacological reaction.

HLTENN008 Apply legal and ethical parameters to nursing practice
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to within work legal and ethical parameters in professional nursing practice, including supporting rights and meeting duty of care requirements.

HLTAAP003 Analyse and respond to client health information
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to analyse client health information and then to plan appropriate health services within scope of own role. It requires an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

HLTENN004 Implement, monitor and evaluate nursing care plans
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to implement nursing care as outlined in a person’s plan of care, evaluate outcomes of care provided, record and report progress, and respond to an emergency situation.

HLTENN005 Contribute to nursing care of a person with complex needs
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide clinical nursing skills for a person with complex needs and to contribute to complex nursing interventions using critical thinking and problem-solving.

HLTENN011 Implement and monitor care for a person with acute health problems
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to contribute to the care of the person with an acute health problem by performing clinical nursing skills and interventions that support the person’s health care needs and assist them to regain optimal function and lifestyle.

HLTENN012 Implement and monitor care for a person with chronic health problems
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to contribute to the care of a person with chronic health problems by performing nursing interventions that support the person’s needs and assist them in maintaining an optimal lifestyle.

HLTENN006 Apply principles of wound management in the clinical environment
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply contemporary wound management principles to the care of various types of wounds. It involves working with the interdisciplinary health care team to contribute to assessment, treatment and ongoing management of a person’s wounds.

HLTENN009 Implement and monitor care for a person with mental health conditions
This competency unit describes the skills and knowledge an enrolled nurse needs to perform within the legal and ethical parameters of professional practice, supporting client rights and meeting duty of care requirements.

Compulsory units

All students need to complete the following three compulsory units:

HLTENN010 Apply a palliative approach in nursing practice
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide nursing care using a palliative approach in care environments such as hospitals, home and community care, hospices and long-term care facilities.

HLTENN025 Implement and monitor care for a person with diabetes
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide nursing care to a person with diabetes including assessing needs, planning and implementing complex nursing interventions, evaluating outcomes, and educating the person on his/her condition and available resources.

CHCPOL003 Research and apply evidence to practice
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish the information need, gather information and critically analyse the information for relevance to own work.

Elective units (subject to availability)

Students can choose two electives from the following areas:

BSBLDR403 Lead team effectiveness
This unit defines skills, knowledge and outcomes required to plan and supervise the performance of the team and develop team cohesion. It applies team leaders, supervisors and new emerging managers who have an important leadership role in the development of efficient and effective work teams.

CHCCCS027 Visit client residence
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to make visits to clients to assess needs and/or deliver services in their place of residence. This unit applies to workers who are required to deliver services to people in their home or in any temporary or permanent community residence. Work may be directed under regular (direct, indirect or remote) supervision.

CHCLLN001 Respond to client language, literacy and numeracy needs 
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify situations where client language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) skills may be impeding access to services, to adjust service delivery, and to refer appropriately to improve client outcomes.

HLTENN014 Contribute to maternal and infant health care
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide care to mother and newborn infant in a range of health care settings such as postnatal, neonatal, child and family health care and paediatric settings.

HLTANA005 Maintain quality and supply of anaesthetic equipment and consumables
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to check functioning of equipment, implement and routine and planned equipment maintenance, and maintain the supply of anaesthetic supplies. It also covers the evaluation of new equipment.

HLTANA007 Monitor medications in the anaesthetic environment
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to access and prepare medications, fluids, blood and blood products prescribed by the anaesthetist, to monitor client responses.

 
Note:

• While we endeavour to accommodate students’ elective preferences, we cannot guarantee that students will receive their first preference, due to the demand and availability of some electives.
• Days of commitment may change each semester.
• Electives are subject to review and may change. Any changes will be communicated to students.
• The anaesthetic electives must be undertaken together and require an additional time commitment. Due to the nature of these subjects and limited placement availability, students must show demonstrated ability before being accepted into these electives.

Full Time—Campus Model:
Brisbane and Townsville campus
Campus attendance three days per week

• For students whom identify as needing the face to face contact with education faculty.  These may include mature age students whom haven’t studied for a long period of time or new school leavers or students whom have never completed study after leaving school.
• The three day per week attendance allows for access to face to face educator support and learning support sessions.

Full Time—Mixed Model:
Brisbane campus
Campus attendance one day per week

• The reduced exposure to face to face engagement with education faculty and on-campus learning support officers, means that this option should only be selected by students whom are highly motivated and autonomous in their learning. 
• The requirements of this model include a high volume of self-directed learning, within a shorter time frame than the one day per fortnight and three days per week models.
• This is for students wanting to complete their studies in 18 months, but for personal reasons (e.g: children or work commitments) can only attend one day/week. 
• This model includes simulation practice each week and students will be required to attend workplace experience placement for five days per week over three to four weeks at the end of each semester.
• Students identified by self or faculty, as not meeting the requirements as per the timetable, will be directed to transfer to a different model, either three days per week or one day per fortnight.

Part Time—Mixed Model (available January intake only):
Brisbane campus
Campus attendance one day per fortnight

• The one day per fortnight attendance limits the opportunity for face to face engagement with education faculty and potentially learning support services, so should only be selected by students whom are highly motivated and autonomous with their learning. 
• This model is over three years, so should be selected by students prepared to stay motivated and on track for a longer period of time.
• This model requires a higher volume of self-directed learning than the full time three days per week model.
• This model of delivery requires longer attendance for four day block for simulation practice and assessments each term, alongside their required three weeks of Monday to Friday work placement. 
• Students identified by self or faculty, as not meeting the requirements as per the timetable, will be directed to transfer to the three day per week model.

 

Class timetables
View the indicative timetables for Semester One students commencing study in:

• January 2020 - Brisbane
• January 2020 - Townsville
• April 2020 - Brisbane
• July 2020 - Brisbane Full Time Campus Model
• July 2020 - Brisbane Full Time Mixed model
• July 2020 - Townsville 
• October 2020 - Brisbane

Full fee paying students: $22,800

Eligible students will be able to apply for a VET Student Loan (see below for eligibility and details) or Higher Level Skills funding (funded by the Queensland Government). Payment plans are available for full fee paying (students not receiving Queensland Government funding).
 

Higher Level Skills provides a government subsidy to eligible Queenslanders with the aim to assist individuals gain the higher level skills required to secure employment or career advancement in a priority industry, or to transition to university. To be eligible for the Higher Level Skills funded by the Queensland Government you must meet eligibility criteria.

Higher Level Skills Subsidy Non-Concessional Students: $14,749.44
Subsidised student co-contribution: $480—Where students are eligible for a VET Student Loan  and are also eligible for the Higher Level Skills funding, students must make a co-contribution of $480.

 

Higher Level Skills Subsidy Concessional Students: $13,024.32
Concession student co-contribution: $240—Where students are eligible for a VET Student Loan and are also eligible for the Higher Level Skills funding, students must make a co-contribution of $240.

View the schedule of fees for:

• January—December 2020

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To be eligible for Higher Level Skills funding you must meet the following criteria:

• prospective students must not have, or be enrolled in, a certificate IV or higher-level qualification, not including qualifications completed at school and foundations skills training
• be 15 years or older
• have completed or left secondary school
• be an Australian citizen or permanent resident residing in Queensland, or New Zealand citizen permanently residing in Queensland (including humanitarian entrants), or a temporary resident with the necessary visa and work permits on the pathway to permanent residency.

Students may be entitled to the concession fee if they are meet eligibility requirements for subsidised training, and:

• are listed on an Australian Government Low Income Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card,
• are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander,
• hold a Department of Veterans' Affairs Pensioner Concession Card, or
• have a disability.

For more information on Commonwealth Loans or Queensland Government funding, visit:

• Study Assist website
• Information for VET Student Loans Students
• Queensland Government—Higher Level Skills Student Fact Sheet

As a condition of enrolment, you will be required to complete a student training and employment survey within three months of finishing or discontinuing your training (see Student Survey Factsheet).

Students will no longer be eligible for a government subsidised training place under the Higher Level Skills program once they have completed one certificate IV level or higher qualification (see Higher Level Skills FAQs).

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Additional costs

As part of your enrolment you may need to buy:

• Textbooks and materials (approximately $800)
• Mater Education Uniform shirt (approximately $60 - $80 per shirt)
• Closed-in black shoes
• Black business pants or knee-length black skirt (preferably with pockets)
• Criminal history check 'Fit2Work' ($29) for each check to a maximum $87
• Nursing fob watch (approx. $80)
• First Aid and CPR certification, if void or expires whist studying (approx. $100)
• Any additional vaccinations you may require
• Laptop or portable device with internet access.

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Refund policies

• Refund after census dates
• Re-Crediting a FEE-HELP (VET Student Loans) Balance and Decision Review

Eligible students may be able to apply for funding assistance via the Commonwealth Government's VET Student Loan scheme.

To be eligible for a VET Student Loan, students must meet the following citizenship and residency requirements:

You must be:
   (a)  an Australian citizen; or
   (b)  the holder of a permanent humanitarian visa who is usually resident in Australia; or
   (c)  a qualifying New Zealand citizen.

A qualifying New Zealand citizen is a New Zealand citizen who:
   (a)  holds a special category visa; and
   (b)  has been usually resident in Australia for at least 10 years; and
   (c)  was a dependent child when he or she was first usually resident in Australia; and
   (d)  has been in Australia for periods totalling 8 years during the previous 10 years; and
   (e)  has been in Australia for periods totalling 18 months during the previous 2 years.

You must also have been assessed as academically suited to undertake the course by Mater Education as part of the enrolment process.

To apply for a VET Student Loan you will need to:

• provide information about your identity and date of birth,
• provide your tax file number or a certificate from the Commissioner that you have applied for a tax file number,
• if you are under 18 years of age, one of the signatories to the application is a responsible parent;
• or, if on the basis that you are you are independent, provide information that you have received youth allowance (within the meaning of the Social Security Act 1991).

 

For more information about the new VET Student Loans, see the Department of Education and Training website and Study Assist.

VET Student Loan is a debt and will need to be repaid.

Note: VET Student Loan scheme has been effective since 1 January 2017, replacing the VET FEE-HELP scheme.

01. What do I include in my application?

To apply for the program you’ll need to:

• complete an online application form, highlighting:
  • Your motivation to pursue a career in nursing.
  • Why you think the Mater Education program would suit you.
  • How you plan to balance your life, work and full-time study commitments.
• submit your Curriculum Vitae (CV) (maximum of two pages), detailing your education, work and voluntary experience.

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02. What happens after I submit my online application?

You should receive a confirmation email to acknowledge we’ve received your application.

If you don’t receive this notification within 24 hours (and you’ve checked your junk mail folder), contact the Student Services team to confirm whether your application has been received and that you have submitted the correct contact details.

You’ll then receive directions to complete an online test (for reading and numeracy) to assess your English language competency. Applicants must display competence at or above Exit Level 3 in the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) in both reading and numeracy to be able to progress to the next stage of the application process.

We’ll then be in touch to arrange a time for you to participate in an interview and written examination.

Successful students will then be offered a place in the program.

If you’re unsuccessful in any of these stages, we will inform you as soon as possible, and where possible, provide you with advice for available gap study programs.

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03. What happens if I miss the application closing date?

Applications submitted after the closing date will not be accepted for that intake, however we will be happy to consider your application as part of the next available intake.

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04. What’s involved in the interview?

The interview and written examination session will take approximately one hour.

You’ll take part in a group information session, a 30 minute written examination and a one-on-one interview.

This process allows us to get to know you and understand why you think you would be a good Mater Education Diploma of Nursing student, and what skills and abilities you think you would bring to the student nurse role, including how you meet the inherent requirements.

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05. What do I bring to the interview?

We’ll send a list of requirements prior to your interview, but you will also need to supply:

• Australian birth certificate, passport or Australian citizenship papers (Mater Education does not enrol international students);
• driver's license and/or Medicare card and/or healthcare card if you are not an Australian citizen (e.g. if you're a permanent resident);
• a transcript copy of any qualifications, statements of attainment or a transcript of completed study and/or your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education awarded for the completion of year 12;
• evidence of meeting the English language requirements;
• evidence of New Zealand SCV eligibilty for a VET Student Loan, if required.

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06. What happens if I can’t make an interview?

The interview is an essential component of the Mater Education application and enrolment process. If you can’t participate in an interview, we can’t proceed with your application.

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07. When will I be notified of my interview result?

Mater Education will make offers as promptly as possible, you can ask at interview when you can expect to hear from us. Everyone who interviewed will be contacted by either phone or email.

It’s important to note that places will be offered progressively throughout the application period, so early applications are encouraged to avoid disappointment.

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08. What happens after I accept an offer?

Once you are offered a position within the Diploma of Nursing program, you will receive an offer of enrolment email and an invoice for your deposit. Once you receive your offer of enrolment email, you’ll need to:

• complete and submit your enrolment form online,
• apply and pay the relevant fee for a Criminal History Check using Fit2Work (the enrolment pack will have more information), and
• complete payment of your deposit.

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09. Is the course available part-time?

Yes, Diploma of Nursing Program is available on a part-time basis. The program commences in January and is available to Brisbane students only.

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10. What about computer access?

Mater Education uses a range of teaching and learning methods, including online learning. You can access this information using your own smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer.

If you’d prefer to access a computer onsite, Mater's South Brisbane campus has:

• 45 dedicated computers available onsite at the UQ/Mater McAuley Library
• designated computer training rooms
• Diploma of Nursing student space computers
• All of these computers have high-speed Internet connections.

The Diploma of Nursing area also has Wi-Fi accessibility in case you’d like to study onsite using your own devices.

Mater Education's online learning platform provides both onsite and remote access to study and assessment guides, lecture notes and online assessment.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of computer experience. Other students are usually happy to lend a helping hand, and it’s a great way to get to know people. Besides, our Diploma of Nursing program isn’t an online course. It’s just one learning component of the overall training program.

And there’s always support available—you just need to ask.

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11. Do I get a job once I’ve completed the course?

Four (4) to six (6) weeks before your course completion, you are able to apply for registration online, as an enrolled nurse (EN) with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Job opportunities are varied, depending on the area of nursing you choose to pursue. Within Mater, you are able to apply for Mater Health’s Enrolled Nursing Graduate Program, which is available exclusively to Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing Graduates. Position availability is dependent on workforce needs. As we don’t employ all students, we offer career expos twice a year, where potential employers and tertiary pathway representatives are available to speak with students.

You may also wish to apply for a position as an EN within Mater or any potential employer. For any advertised positions at Mater however, you will need to apply and follow Mater recruitment processes. Please be advised these positions are limited, and there is no guarantee of employment.

Our team of educators provide workshops to assist with CV writing, interview techniques and presentation to enhance your skills and optimise your ability to be a successful applicant in the path you choose. 

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12. Who do I contact if I have any questions?

If you have any questions about Mater's Diploma of Nursing Program or the application process, please contact the Student Services team on 07 3163 3777 or visit the contact page for alternative contact details.

You can read further course FAQs here.

Mater Education is proud to offer rare scholarship opportunities for some eligible students from an Indigenous or refugee background, as well as those facing financial hardship.

Scholarships are awarded on merit, and are available to eligible students commencing in the January or July intake.

If you think you are eligible, we encourage you to apply for the course and make a clear note in your application form that you’re also applying for the scholarship (list under “other relevant information”).

The successful recipient will need to demonstrate satisfactory completion of each semester and continuous enrolment to retain the scholarship.

All scholarship applications must be received no later than four weeks prior to the course commencement date. No late applications will be accepted.

Indigenous applicants
Indigenous applicants are invited to submit an Indigenous background Scholarship application letter outlining their cultural background (with confirmed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identity), goals and aspirations and a copy of achievements thus far. Two written referee reports (one professional and one personal) should also be included.

Selection will be via the following criteria:

• confirmed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identity
• all entry requirements for acceptance into the program are met
• experience and merit
• attendance at an interview with Mater Education. The aim of the interview is to present why you would be the best candidate to receive the scholarship to assist you in your studies. Mater Education will arrange for a representative from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Liaison Unit to attend the interview if requested by the applicant.
• applicants are to provide written responses to five selection criteria linked to the Mater Values. Applicants are required to write approximately 150 words per criteria, with a maximum word count of 800 words in total

Refugee background applicants
Applicants with a refugee background are invited to submit a refugee background scholarship application letter which outlining their cultural background, goals and aspirations and a copy of achievements thus far. Two written referee reports (one professional and one personal) should also be included.

Selection will be via the following criteria:

• arrived in Australia under the Refugee and Humanitarian program
• all entry requirements for acceptance into the program are met
• experience and merit
• attendance at an interview with Mater Education . The aim of the interview is to present why you would be the best candidate to receive the scholarship to assist you in your studies. Mater Education will arrange for a representative from the Refugee Liaison Unit to be present if requested by the applicant.
• applicants are to provide written responses to five selection criteria linked to the Mater Values. Applicants are required to write approximately 150 words per criteria, with a maximum word count of 800 words in total

Financial hardship applicants
Applicants who are facing financial hardship are invited to submit a scholarship application letter outlining their current financial situation, goals and aspirations and a copy of achievements thus far. Two written referee reports (one professional and one personal) should also be included.

Selection will be via the following criteria:

• can provide evidence of low-income and independent living
• all entry requirements for acceptance into the program are met
• experience and merit
• attendance at an interview with Mater Education. The aim of the interview is to present why you would be the best candidate to receive the scholarship to assist you in your studies. Mater Education will arrange for a representative to be present if requested by the applicant.
• applicants are to provide written responses to five selection criteria linked to the Mater Values. Applicants are required to write approximately 150 words per criteria, with a maximum word count of 800 words in total

Mater Education's Diploma of Nursing program aims to develop your ability to assess, plan, implement, evaluate and apply critical-thinking skills. You’ll then apply these to provide quality patient-centred nursing care for patients/clients with varying healthcare requirements as a beginner-level enrolled nurse.

The curriculum integrates all core competencies of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) Enrolled Nurse Standards for Practice. The program ensures the central focus is on enrolled nursing practice and providing competent, safe, patient-centred care.
 

Objectives/outcomes

The major goal of Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing Program is to have each student demonstrate a satisfactory level of knowledge, skills, attitude, communication and safety in all units of competency. As a graduate you will be expected to be clinically competent and ready to function as beginning enrolled nurses based on the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) Enrolled Nurse Standards for Practice.

^{Model of educational delivery and transition to patient centred care}
 

Learning philosophy

Mater Education recognises that adult students are individuals, and so adopts a learner-centred focus using a variety of teaching methods to meet their learning needs. These include:

• problem-based learning tutorials (PBL)
• lectures
• online learning modules
• videos
• simulation
• high-quality workplace experience placements.

The diagram shows how our evidence-based curriculum supports the students’ transition, both educationally and clinically. Our blended delivery methods promote critical thinking and support professional, multidisciplinary communication. What follows is a smooth transition from the learner-centred educational focus to the patient-centred care delivery through simulation and workplace experience placement.
 

Conceptual framework

Mater Education's Diploma of Nursing program’s conceptual framework is centred on the enrolled nursing professional and eight themes that support professional practice. An emphasis on knowledge, skills, attitudes, and professional and ethical practice as essential elements for enrolled nursing practice binds these themes together. The themes incorporate the three domains of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia’s (NMBA) Enrolled Nursing Standards for Practice:

• professional and collaborative practice,
• provision of care, and
• reflective and analytical practice.

By emphasising knowledge (capabilities), skills, attitudes, and professional and ethical practice as essential elements for enrolled nursing practice, these themes are bound together.

The focus and themes of the conceptual framework align with Mater's teaching and learning strategy, which is based on a robust and systematic approach to transforming work-based cultures to deliver safe, high-quality patient care.

^{Mater Education - Diploma of Nursing Program's Conceptual Framework}

The conceptual framework guides faculty, students, advisors, and academic staff in designing and implementing any component of the Diploma of Nursing curriculum, including student and program evaluation.

Mater puts the patient at the centre of everything we do, and provides an environment receptive to their perceptions of their care. The Mater Education curriculum has been designed to incorporate all of the above, based on this conceptual framework.

Students who have enrolled in a program of study are required to submit a formal, written notification of their intention to withdraw from the program by completing Mater Education’s Withdrawal Form.

Where students have been provided with uniforms, identification cards, and/or loan equipment or books these items must be returned to Mater Education. 

Mater Education reserves the right to charge a student withdrawing from a course a fee for any item not returned.

Students will not receive acknowledgement of their study e.g. statement of attainment unless all fees have been paid in full and all Mater resources provided to the student e.g. uniforms or text books are returned in good order.

Mater Education Limited (MEL) will repay to any MEL student who is, or would be, enrolled in a VET unit of study, any upfront payment of VET tuition fees if the student withdraws from that unit of study on or before the relevant census date. 

Students who have requested VET Student Loan assistance who remain enrolled after the published census date will incur a VET Student Loan debt. Where a MEL student withdraws from a VET unit of study after the relevant census date, after consideration of any special circumstances that may apply, any refund of VET tuition fees or re-crediting of VET Student Loan is at the discretion of MEL’s General Manager, Education and Training.

You can also find more information about refund and re-crediting VET Student Loans in the "cost" section above.

Every student enrolled in Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing is given a great chance at a successful nursing career. Read some of our student success stories here;  we hope to share your story soon.