Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion

4 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program

Deakin University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion at Deakin University combines hands-on nursing education with a strong understanding of public health and disease prevention. It is an excellent choice for students who want to become registered nurses while also developing the skills to improve the health and wellbeing of communities through education, policy, and health promotion initiatives.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in nursing and health sciences through units such as Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology (HBS109), Quality and Safety: Nursing Practice 1 (HNN112), and Disease Prevention and Control (HSH102). They also study Person-Centred Health Assessment (HNN114) to develop essential clinical and assessment skills.

Year 2
The second year focuses on evidence-based healthcare and community health through subjects including Evidence-Based Practice (HNN108), Primary Health Care (HNN217), and Health Communication (HSH208). Students strengthen their understanding of safe healthcare delivery and the role of health promotion in improving population outcomes.

Year 3
Students explore more advanced topics through units such as Mental Health and Supportive Care (HNN222), Epidemiology and Biostatistics 1 (HSH205), and Program Planning, Management and Evaluation (HSH323). This year encourages students to apply research and public health principles to real-world health challenges.

Year 4
In the final year, students complete advanced nursing studies with units including Chronic Illness and Supportive Care (HNN329), Care of the Older Person (HNN318), and Quality and Safety: Comprehensive Nursing Practice (HNN325). Extensive professional placements and public health experiences prepare graduates for careers in both clinical and community settings.

Focus Areas

Clinical nursing, public health, health promotion, disease prevention, epidemiology, health communication, primary healthcare, community wellbeing, program planning, policy development, and population health.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop strong clinical nursing skills, public health knowledge, critical thinking, leadership, effective communication, research capability, and the ability to design and implement strategies that improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The nursing component of the program is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), allowing eligible graduates to apply for registration as Registered Nurses. The public health component also supports professional engagement within the health promotion and public health sectors.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

Deakin University is recognised internationally for excellence in nursing and public health education and has strong graduate employment outcomes supported by industry partnerships and extensive practical training opportunities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Deakin University, the Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion programs are designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This hands-on approach ensures that you not only learn the concepts but also apply them in real-world settings, preparing you for a successful career in health. With state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of experiential learning opportunities, you will gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your field.

Here are some of the key experiential learning components you can expect:

- Clinical Simulation Labs: Deakin’s nursing students have access to advanced simulation labs equipped with high-fidelity mannequins and clinical scenarios that mimic real-life situations, allowing you to practice your skills in a safe environment.

- Fieldwork and Internships: The program includes opportunities for field placements in various healthcare settings, where you can gain invaluable experience and make professional connections.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a key part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and communication skills essential for working in health promotion and public health.

- Digital Tools and Software: You will be trained in using industry-standard software for data analysis and health promotion strategies, enhancing your technical skills.

- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research facilities allows you to engage in health-related research projects, contributing to the advancement of public health knowledge.

- Library Resources: Deakin’s libraries offer extensive resources, including access to health databases, journals, and e-books, supporting your academic and research needs.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to health organizations and community health initiatives, providing insights into real-world public health challenges and solutions.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you graduate not just with a degree, but with the practical skills and experiences that employers are looking for.

Choosing Deakin means choosing a university that prioritizes your hands-on learning experience, setting you up for a successful career in nursing and public health.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion at Deakin University are well-equipped to make a significant impact in the healthcare sector. With a strong foundation in both nursing and public health, you can pursue diverse career paths such as a Registered Nurse, Public Health Officer, Health Promotion Specialist, or Community Health Worker. The combination of these disciplines opens doors to a variety of roles that focus on improving health outcomes and promoting wellness in communities.

Here’s how Deakin supports your journey towards a successful career:

- Career Services: Deakin offers dedicated career support, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events to connect you with potential employers.
- Employment Statistics: The university boasts a high employment rate for graduates, with 90% of nursing graduates employed within four months of completing their degree, and the average salary for nursing graduates is around $70,000 per year.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Deakin has strong partnerships with leading healthcare organizations, such as Barwon Health and Western Health, providing students with valuable placement opportunities and real-world experience.
- Accreditation: The Bachelor of Nursing is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring that your qualification is recognized and respected in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are not only prepared for immediate employment but also equipped with skills that are highly sought after in the healthcare sector, making them competitive candidates in the job market.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this program, you have the option to further your studies in various fields. You could pursue a Master of Public Health, a Master of Nursing, or even specialized postgraduate courses in areas such as mental health, aged care, or health leadership. This further education can enhance your expertise and open up even more advanced career opportunities in the healthcare landscape.

Choosing Deakin University for your Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion means investing in a future filled with possibilities and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives.