A Graduate Certificate in Nursing is a highly rated postgraduate qualification. It is positioned at Level 8 in the Australian Qualifications Framework – above a bachelor's degree (Level 7) and just below a master's degree (Level 9). All states and territories in Australia recognise the certificate, with graduates receiving a Qualification Allowance averaging more than $3k per year.
An emergency care specialisation means the course focuses on topics such as acute patient management, advanced clinical decision-making, and urgent care techniques. It also ensures a balance between ED-specific content and the development of general clinical skills. Continued study can lead to a Master of Emergency Nursing.
Examples: Deakin University, Flinders University, Griffith University
Critical Care Nursing (Emergency) Specialisation
ED nurses often choose to major in critical care nursing (with an emergency focus), receiving extra training in areas such as life support and pathophysiology. This pathway can boost your career prospects. It develops skills for managing critical situations in ICUs and trauma units and opens up job opportunities in settings like cardiac care, neurology units, and paediatric emergency wards.
How Do I Become an Emergency Nurse?
To become an emergency nurse in Australia, you first need to be a registered nurse and gain experience in an acute care setting. Postgraduate qualifications are essential for career progression.
- Work in emergency departments to develop critical care skills.
- Undertake specialised emergency care training.
- Complete advanced studies in a relevant healthcare discipline.
- Seek specialised and senior roles based on experience and education.
These steps can lead to advanced nursing roles, including positions such as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Nurse Consultant, or Nurse Unit Manager.