Are you a person who:

• thrives on challenges
• enjoys problem-solving
• is resourceful
• would like to communicate well with all kinds of people
• is sensitive to other people's beliefs
• enjoys complexity and a stimulating environment
• has a level-headed disposition
• can reassess their priorities quickly
• enjoys continuous interactions
• is sensitive to other cultures and beliefs
• can handle physical, intellectual and emotional demands
• is willing to continue learning after graduation so you remain up-to-date?

If so, nursing or midwifery may be the profession for you.

What you'll learn

In the university course, you will learn about anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, psychology and sociology, the human lifespan and Indigenous health, as well as mastering fundamental skills such as completing a health assessment and a physical examination. There is a large body of knowledge you'll be expected to master and be able to apply.

You'll also learn how to become a better critical thinker and reflective practitioner, and understand the ethical and legal frameworks within which nurses and midwives work.

Nursing and midwifery have developed specialised bodies of knowledge that incorporate theory, research and practice. You will put this knowledge together in the care of your clients.

Variety of opportunities

There are many employment opportunities for nurses and midwives in traditional healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics and private practices. There are also opportunities in the defence forces, management, research, clinical education and, with additional study, as independent practitioners as nurse practitioners or midwives. Wherever there are people, nurses are needed—from cruise ships to shopping centres to aged care homes.

Nurses and midwives can work full-time, part-time or on a casual basis, so working schedules can be shaped around family and other commitments.

Nursing and midwifery are 'portable' careers. There are employment possibilities in every major city in Australia as well as in regional and remote areas. And there are opportunities to work overseas, which many find attractive. There is a huge international demand for nurses and midwives experienced in training and providing primary health care.

As the population ages, new technology brings amazing developments in health care; as the world's economic situation continues to be uncertain, nursing and midwifery have proven to be stable and recession-proof careers!

Nurses and midwives have won high levels of status and respect in the community because of their skills, knowledge and commitment to professional standards. Take some time and explore these professions before making your decision.

Check it out

Don't base your study decisions just on popular television shows or chats with your friends—find nurses and midwives in your community and ask them what their work is really like and what they do in a 'typical' day. Can you imagine yourself doing that work?

Here are some other suggestions to check out:

• Take a CPR or manual handling course before you make your decision—that will give you a little insight into the demands you'll find in nursing and midwifery.
• Take courses in the physical sciences, maths, chemistry and communication in secondary school.
• Look at the study aids on the School of Nursing & Midwifery website to get a taste of some of the work required.
• Visit the NurseInfo website developed by the Royal College of Nursing Australia for lots of useful information on both nursing and midwifery in Australia.
• See the range of job opportunities on the websites of international non-government organisations such as CARE International, the Australian Red Cross, World Vision Australia, and the Australian Council for International Development.

If you have questions about nursing or midwifery as a career and would like to find out more about what Flinders has to offer, please contact us.