Specialist Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing
- #2 in Australia for Public Health (ShanghaiRanking)
- #17 in the world for Public Health (ShanghaiRanking)
Course code: SC-RNP
February, July
AUD $7,000 (2026 indicative first year fee). Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) are not available
Access Melbourne is available
AUD $7,248 (2026 indicative first year fee)
IELTS 6.5: with no band less than 6.0
Course overview
Overview
The Specialist Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing leads to endorsement as a designated registered nurse prescriber.
This program is comprised of two units of study completed over one or two semesters which are delivered by a multidisciplinary team of experienced nurses, pharmacologists and pharmacists. Workshops can be attended on campus or via video streaming.
Following completion of this program students will meet the education criteria for entry on the Australian Health Practitioner Register with an endorsement for scheduled medicines - designated registered nurse prescriber.
Why study the Specialist Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing?
Significant gaps in healthcare in Australia have been documented over the last decade and include:
- Inequitable access to healthcare and poorer outcomes for regional, rural and remote communities and sociocultural groups
- Australia’s ageing population and the associated burden of chronic diseases such as diabetes and dementia
Government and policy makers have long recognised the potential to address unmet need by increasing the role played by nurses in delivering healthcare. Health outcomes, access and satisfaction can be improved by allowing health professionals to work to full scope of practice.
Who is this course for?
This course is for experienced nurses practicing clinically with a particular emphasis on those working in primary and aged care, in regional and rural areas and with other disadvantaged communities.
Pathways to future study
Applicants may be eligible for advanced standing towards the Master of Advanced Nursing Practice based on subjects completed within the Specialist Certificate in Registered Nursing Prescribing.
Upcoming information session
Advanced Nursing Practice Information Session
When: Thursday, 5 November 2026, 5:30PM - 6:30PM AEST
Highlighting the three Masters programs in Advanced Nursing Practice as well as the Specialist Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing at the University of Melbourne: