Overview

Nursing sits at the centre of modern healthcare, combining scientific understanding with compassion and sound judgement to support people at every stage of life. The Bachelor of Nursing at Adelaide University is a clinically focused program designed to prepare students for practice as registered nurses. Teaching comes from experienced academic and clinical staff, and students consolidate their skills in simulated hospital and health service environments before applying them with real patients. Emerging technologies such as 360 video, augmented reality, artificial intelligence and machine learning feature in the learning experience, alongside opportunities to collaborate with midwives, pharmacists, physiotherapists and physicians. Clinical placements begin in the first year and continue throughout the program, taking students into metropolitan, regional and rural healthcare settings across South Australia. The program is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council and approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, and graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse. It suits people who want a practical, people-centred profession and who wish to gain the knowledge, confidence and professional standing to work across diverse health settings.

What You’ll Learn

Human biology and the scientific basis of nursing practice

Becoming a nursing professional and understanding professional standards

Social and political determinants of health

Aboriginal health

Health of older people

Health of adults

Health of infants, children and adolescents

Mental health nursing

Health assessment, diagnostics and pharmacotherapeutics

Evidence-based nursing practice

Primary health care nursing

Transition to professional practice

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, graduates will understand human biology and the scientific principles behind clinical decisions, as well as the social, political and cultural factors that shape health at individual, community and population levels. They will be able to assess patients, interpret diagnostic information and apply pharmacological knowledge when planning and delivering care for adults, older people, children, adolescents and people experiencing mental health challenges. Students will learn to appraise research evidence critically and apply it to real-world clinical problems, while reflecting on professional standards, ethics and culturally respectful practice, including in Aboriginal health. Extensive placement experience and simulation-based training build practical, hands-on competence, clear communication and the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team in varied healthcare environments. The final stages of the program support the move into professional practice, and graduates are positioned to pursue further study and specialise in the area of nursing that matches their career aspirations.