Best Australian Universities for Nursing in 2025

Best Australian Universities for Nursing in 2025: Your Guide to Top Programs

Are you dreaming of a nursing career and considering studying in Australia? With its world-class education system and high demand for healthcare professionals, Australia is a top destination for nursing students in 2025. This guide explores the best Australian universities for nursing, offering insights into programs, rankings, and why they stand out for international and domestic students alike. Let’s dive into the top picks and what makes them exceptional for your nursing journey.

Why Study Nursing in Australia in 2025?

Australia’s healthcare sector is booming, with a projected shortage of over 100,000 nurses by 2025, according to Health Workforce Australia. This creates incredible opportunities for nursing graduates. The country’s universities are globally recognized, offering cutting-edge facilities, clinical placements, and pathways to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Plus, nursing degrees from Australia are respected worldwide, making them a smart choice for your career in 2025.

1. Edith Cowan University (ECU): Top Nursing Education in Western Australia

Located in Perth, Edith Cowan University (ECU) is a rising star among the best Australian universities for nursing in 2025. Ranked in the top 75 globally for nursing (Shanghai Rankings 2024), ECU offers a standout Bachelor of Science (Nursing) and a unique Nursing and Midwifery dual degree, the only one in Western Australia. With state-of-the-art demonstration wards—eight in Joondalup and four in Bunbury—students get over 800 hours of clinical practice, ensuring they’re ready to excel as Registered Nurses (RNs).

• Key Features: 5-star teaching quality (Good Universities Guide, 18 years running), partnerships with rural and metro hospitals.
• Why Choose It?: Perfect for students seeking affordable, high-quality training with a focus on practical skills.

ECU’s School of Nursing and Midwifery shines with its innovative “Ward for a Day” initiative, expanding to midwifery in 2024 with a $500,000 equipment upgrade. Its South West campus in Bunbury caters to regional students, while the Joondalup campus offers urban access. Graduates enjoy a strong employability rate, fueled by ECU’s industry-aligned curriculum.

2. Monash University: Excellence in Practical Training

Ranked 15th worldwide for nursing (QS 2023), Monash University is a powerhouse in Victoria. Its Bachelor of Nursing and dual Nursing/Midwifery (Honours) programs emphasize evidence-based practice and extensive clinical placements. Located across Clayton and Peninsula campuses, Monash boasts a 95% employment rate for graduates from its entry-to-practice programs.

• Key Features: 800+ hours of clinical practice, top-tier research facilities.
• Why Choose It?: Perfect for hands-on learners seeking specialized career paths.

3. Queensland University of Technology (QUT): Real-World Focus

QUT in Brisbane ranks 30th globally (QS 2023) and is renowned for its practical Bachelor of Nursing. With 880 hours of supervised placements across diverse settings, students are job-ready by graduation. QUT’s narrative-based learning, developed with industry input, ensures skills match modern healthcare needs.

• Key Features: Early clinical exposure, flexible study options.
• Why Choose It?: Great for students prioritizing practical experience over theory.

4. University of Technology Sydney (UTS): Dynamic and Connected

UTS ranks 20th worldwide (QS 2023) and is a leader in nursing education in New South Wales. Its Bachelor of Nursing offers specializations like mental health and aged care, supported by over 100 clinical partnerships across NSW. UTS graduates are highly sought after, thanks to its innovative teaching and strong industry ties.

• Key Features: Dynamic faculty, part-time/full-time options.
• Why Choose It?: Suits students wanting flexibility and networking opportunities.

5. Flinders University: South Australia’s Nursing Innovator

Flinders University in Adelaide is ranked No. 1 in South Australia for nursing (2022 Academic Ranking of World Universities, public SA-founded universities). Its Bachelor of Nursing (Preregistration) offers nearly 1,000 hours of placements and cutting-edge facilities. Flinders excels with flexible study options and a focus on clinical reasoning.

• Key Features:
  Aim for 800+ hours of clinical exposure.
• Why Choose It?: Innovation and extensive hands-on experience.

Career Outlook

Nursing graduates earn AUD 70,000–90,000 yearly, with demand soaring in 2025. Specializations (e.g., midwifery) or rural work can enhance prospects, including Permanent Residency options.