Study with the ACN online for specialised skills to enhance patient safety, care coordination, and surgical outcomes.
Title: Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing
Provider: Australian College of Nursing (ACN)
Campus Location: 100% online
About
The Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing is for nurses working in perioperative environments, including anaesthetic, instrument/circulating, and post-anaesthetic care roles.
Core subjects cover legal, ethical, and professional issues in perioperative nursing. Elective options include pain management, infection control, and diagnostic imaging. The flexible online structure supports working nurses, with 12–15 hours of study required per week over four terms.
Graduates gain expertise to improve clinical outcomes and open doors to roles in education, management, and specialist perioperative nursing.
Provider
The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is a leader in postgraduate nursing education, offering flexible, industry-relevant programs. ACN is recognised for its commitment to advancing the nursing profession through high-quality teaching, networking opportunities, and advocacy.
Key Takeaways
- Develop advanced perioperative nursing skills for anaesthetic, instrument, and recovery roles.
- Study core topics in perioperative practice and choose from electives like pain management or infection control.
- Flexible online delivery supports working professionals, with part-time study over one year.
- Gain expertise to step into roles like Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, or Perioperative Team Leader.
- Benefit from FEE-HELP options and scholarships for eligible students.
Course Structure
The Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing includes four units: one core unit, one specialty elective, and two general electives.
The core unit, Perioperative Nursing Practice, covers foundational knowledge and skills for safe and effective perioperative care. Specialty electives allow students to focus on Anaesthetic Nursing, Instrument/Circulating Nursing, or Post-Anaesthetic Care Nursing.
General electives offer a range of options, including Advanced Applied Pathophysiology, Infection Prevention and Control, Paediatric Pain – Assessment and Management, and Assessing and Managing Adult Pain. Students can customise their studies to match their career goals or clinical interests.
This structure allows nurses to build broad perioperative expertise or focus on areas relevant to their roles. Visit the course page for further details.
Why This Course Is Worthwhile
Gaining this form of nursing certification will normally improve your pay immediately via qualification allowances. But the benefits run much deeper.
This course gives you evidence-based knowledge to improve patient safety, manage surgical risks, and achieve better outcomes in perioperative settings. You’ll strengthen your practical skills for handling high-pressure situations with confidence.
The program’s flexibility lets you study while continuing your career. You’ll graduate with the qualifications and confidence to take on leadership roles or pursue further specialisation.
How Online Study Works
The program is delivered entirely online, making it accessible for nurses across Australia. Each term includes interactive modules, case studies, and discussion forums to facilitate learning.
Support services, including academic advisors and tech support, ensure a smooth study experience. Students can engage with peers and instructors through live sessions and email consultations.
This course is designed for nurses ready to grow their expertise without pausing their careers.