Bachelor of Nursing

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Southern Queensland

Program Overview

The B.S. Nursing program at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) is designed for those passionate about supporting women and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. This program is ideal for individuals who are compassionate, dedicated, and eager to make a positive impact in the healthcare field, providing a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students will lay a solid foundation in midwifery principles through courses such as "Foundations of Midwifery" and "Human Anatomy and Physiology." These units introduce essential concepts of maternal and newborn health, equipping students with the knowledge necessary to understand the physiological and psychological aspects of pregnancy and childbirth.

The second year delves deeper into clinical practice and midwifery care, with courses like "Midwifery Care in the Childbearing Continuum" and "Pharmacology for Midwives." Students will engage in hands-on learning experiences, developing their skills in providing care to women and families, while also exploring the ethical and legal frameworks that govern midwifery practice.

In the final year, students will focus on advanced midwifery practice and leadership through courses such as "Midwifery Practice: Complex Care" and "Research in Midwifery." This year emphasizes critical thinking and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to take on leadership roles in the field and contribute to the ongoing development of midwifery as a profession.

Focus Areas: Maternal and newborn health, clinical practice, leadership in midwifery.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be equipped to provide safe, evidence-based midwifery care, advocate for women's health, and engage in lifelong learning and professional development.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring that graduates meet the national standards for midwifery practice.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): USQ is recognized for its strong employability outcomes, consistently ranking highly in graduate employment rates according to the QS Graduate Employability Rankings.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Southern Queensland (USQ), the B.S. Nursing program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. This approach ensures that you not only learn the essential concepts of midwifery but also gain practical skills that are crucial for your future career. USQ offers state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance your learning experience, allowing you to engage in real-world scenarios and develop the confidence needed to excel in the field.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the B.S. Midwifery program at USQ:

- Simulation Labs: USQ features advanced simulation labs equipped with high-fidelity mannequins and realistic birthing scenarios, allowing you to practice clinical skills in a safe environment.
- Clinical Placements: You will have the opportunity to undertake clinical placements in various healthcare settings, providing you with invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to diverse midwifery practices.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are an integral part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and communication skills essential for working in healthcare.
- Digital Tools: The program incorporates the use of digital tools and software for patient management and documentation, preparing you for the technological aspects of modern midwifery.
- Field Trips: Engaging field trips to healthcare facilities and community organizations enhance your understanding of midwifery in different contexts and settings.
- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research facilities allows you to engage in evidence-based practice and contribute to ongoing research in midwifery.
- Library Resources: The USQ library offers a wealth of resources, including access to medical journals, textbooks, and online databases, supporting your academic research and learning.
- Supportive Learning Environment: USQ provides a nurturing environment with experienced faculty members who are dedicated to your success and professional development.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you graduate as a competent and confident midwife, ready to make a positive impact in the lives of mothers and their families.

Embarking on your midwifery journey at USQ could be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. I encourage you to apply and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in midwifery!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) prepares you to step straight into a high-demand healthcare career with strong clinical confidence and real-world experience. With hands-on simulation training and extensive clinical exposure, you’ll be ready to deliver patient care across a wide range of healthcare environments from day one.

Typical roles include:

Registered Nurse
Aged Care Nurse
Mental Health Nurse
Community Health Nurse

Progression & Future Opportunities:

Career-ready support services: UniSQ provides dedicated career advisors who help with resume building, job applications, and long-term career planning—ensuring a smooth transition into employment.
Strong salary outcomes: UniSQ is ranked #1 in Australia for undergraduate nursing graduate starting salary (Good Universities Guide 2026), with average RN salaries typically ranging from AUD 70,000–95,000+ depending on experience.
High employability & demand: Nursing is a high-demand profession with strong national need due to ageing populations and healthcare expansion, offering excellent job security across Australia.
Industry-integrated training: The program includes clinical placements and simulation-based learning, giving you direct exposure to real healthcare environments and professional networks before graduation.
Accreditation advantage: Fully accredited and aligned with Australian nursing professional standards, enabling eligibility to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia—essential for practising as a nurse.
Graduate outcomes: UniSQ graduates benefit from strong employment outcomes and employer satisfaction, with around 85%+ full-time employment rates reported in national surveys.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you can advance your career through postgraduate study such as a Master of Nursing, specialised clinical certifications (e.g., mental health, critical care, or midwifery), or research pathways like a Master by Research or PhD. These options open doors to leadership, education, and advanced practice roles—helping you build a long-term, impactful career in healthcare.