Graduate Diploma in
Advanced Practice

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How to apply

Entry requirements

Key information

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Hold a degree or equivalent qualification in a related field, and two years clinical experience*

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SATAC

2GD143

CRICOS

121363M

Duration

1 years full-time (or part-time equivalent)

Start Dates

March

July

Start Dates

March

July

Annual Indicative Fees

2027 : $11,916 (CSP)

2027 : $47,600 (FFP)

Delivery mode

In person (Tonsley)
Online

In person (Tonsley)

Practical experience

Not available

Study abroad

Not available

English language requirements

*Applicants must normally hold a degree or equivalent qualification in a related field from an approved tertiary institution and have no less than two years of relevant clinical professional experience following completion of the degree or equivalent qualification, or hold the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Practice.

Overview

Overview Pathways Program of study Careers Scholarships FAQs How to apply

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Why study the Graduate Diploma in Advanced Practice?

This graduate diploma is designed for experienced health professionals who want to extend their impact beyond individual practice and help shape the future of healthcare delivery. Building on foundational advanced practice capability, you will strengthen your skills in leadership, service improvement, workforce development, clinical governance and evidence-informed decision-making. Through contemporary topics in healthcare systems, innovation, strategic communication and sustainable change, you will learn to influence stakeholders, translate evidence into practice and lead improvements across complex health environments. This course provides a pathway to the Master of Advanced Practice.

Lead healthcare

Develop the skills to drive quality improvement, service redesign and sustainable change across healthcare settings.

Build governance expertise

Strengthen your understanding of clinical governance, policy, workforce development and organisational performance.

Tailor your professional focus

Choose a research minor, workplace project or option topics aligned to your career goals and interests.

Progress to masters study

Use this qualification as a pathway into the Master of Advanced Practice (Health Leadership and Innovation) or Master of Advanced Practice (Clinical), subject to eligibility.

Build your career step by step.

We recognise committing to a year of full time study can feel overwhelming. Flinders University offers a structured pathway that lets you earn a recognised qualification at every stage. Complete 4 topics for a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Practice, 8 topics for a Graduate Diploma in Advanced Practice, and 12 topics for a Master in Advanced Practice (Health Leadership and Innovation) or Master of Advanced Practice (Clinical) - with each award a standalone qualification in its own right. You can exit at any stage, then return when you're ready, with full credits for topics already completed.

6-month

Complete 4 topics to earn
Graduate Certificate in Advanced Practice

12-month

Complete 8 topics to earn
Graduate Diploma in Advanced Practice

18-month

Complete 12 topics to earn
Master of Advanced Practice (Health Leadership and Innovation)
or Master of Advanced Practice (Clinical)

What will you study.

Complete four core advanced practice topics before tailoring your studies through a research minor, workplace project minor or contemporary option topics. Explore health leadership, governance, workforce development, evidence implementation, rural health, policy and innovation while applying your learning to real workplace challenges.

Core Topics

You will study the following:

Clinical Reasoning, Theory, and Practice
Evidence-Based Practice and Research for Health Professionals
Leadership and Management in Health
Professional Education and Communication

Minor Options

You may study the following:

Research
Workplace Project

Elective Options

Ethics, Sustainability and Governance
Artificial Intelligence in Business Practice
Health and Aged Care Systems and Policy
Strategic Communication
Knowledge Translation and Evidence for Sustainable Change
Ingrated and Sustainable Rural and Remote Health Practice
Financing Health Systems and Services
Professional Supervision, Mentoring, and Workforce Development

On completion of this course, you will be able to:

Integrate and apply advanced knowledge of evidence, policy, goverance and professional practice to address complex healthcare challenges.
Analyse organisational and system-level issues to develop evidence-informed solutions that improve quality, safety and service effectiveness.
Design, implement and evaluate improvement initiatives that support innovation, workforce capability and sustainable healthcare delivery.
Lead collaborative practice and professional learning initiatives that influence stakeholders and support change within complex health systems.
Apply specialised knowledge and skills within an area of advanced practice to address contemporary professional, clinical, organisational, or community challenges.
Critically translate and adapt evidence, emerging approaches, and professional expertise to inform decision-making and enhance outcomes across diverse healthcare contexts.

Your career and future pathways.

Healthcare organisations increasingly need professionals who can lead change, translate evidence into practice and respond to challenges such as workforce sustainability, service redesign, digital transformation and evolving models of care. This qualification develops the capability to influence systems, improve services and support sustainable healthcare delivery across diverse settings.

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$113,000^*

Expected salary
$130,000^*

Expected salary
$120,000^*

Expected salary
$150,000^*

Expected salary
$120,000^*

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$113,000^*

Expected salary
$130,000^*

Expected salary
$120,000^*

Expected salary
$150,000^*

Expected salary
$120,000^*

Discover South Australia.

Where world-class education meets laid-back coastal living. With pristine beaches, acclaimed wineries, and vibrant festivals at your doorstep, South Australia offers an unmatched student experience.

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Learn from the experts.

Our incredible teaching and professional staff are experts in their fields and well-connected to the industry.

Susan Rampling

Discipline Lead

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Susan Rampling is an Occupational Therapist, Associate Professor and Discipline Lead for Clinical Rehabilitation and Advanced Practice, and Program Lead for Post-graduate Pathways and Professional Learning for the College of Health and Enablement. She has extensive experience across a range of clinical settings across Australia. Susan also completed an internship with the World Health Organisation Regional Office for Europe. Her current PhD research focuses on visual rehabilitation for people with autoimmune optic neuritis, combining clinical practice, education and research expertise.

Heather Weber

Senior Lecturer

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Heather Weber is a Senior Lecturer and physiotherapist with expertise in rehabilitation and healthcare education. She is passionate about helping health professionals develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to advance their practice, lead change, and improve outcomes for the people and communities they serve.

Maayken van den Berg

Professor

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Maayken is a Physiotherapist, Movement Scientist and Allied Health Research Chair at the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network. Her research focuses on improving rehabilitation and self-management for people with neurological conditions and older adults, with a particular interest in increasing access to care, enhancing outcomes, and using technology to support rehabilitation and recovery.

Flinders University is a future you can count on

Flinders University is ranked top 2% globally.

No. 1 in Australia for postgraduate employment.

78% reported salary increase within 2 years of graduating.

4 in 5 students employed full-time while studying.

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Need support?

International Student Services (ISS) is the first point of contact for international student support. The university also offers everything from cultural, health, and wellbeing services, to academic support.

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Campus tours

Take a virtual tour of our campuses, guided by your fellow international students.

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FUSA

Flinders University Student Association (FUSA) is the heart of the Flinders Experience. FUSA is where you'll find out about events, club memberships, and extracurricular activities.

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Accommodation.

Adelaide has many accommodation options for international students. You can choose to live on campus, at our city accommodation provider The Switch, or in rental accommodation.

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Scholarships.

Flinders University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to support international students pursue their educational and career goals.

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Need support?

From course advice, recognition of prior learning assessments, to study skills and financial support, we’re here to help.

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Industry and professional networks

Connect with Flinders alumni and industry partners through discipline-specific networks, seminars, and career events designed for postgraduate students.

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Campus facilities

Flinders’ campuses are hubs of activity, with library spaces, study and chill areas, ample parking and more.

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Scholarships.

Flinders University offers a wide range of postgraduate scholarships to support students pursue their educational and career goals.

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Frequently asked questions.

Find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Who can apply?

Applicants normally need a related degree and at least two years of relevant professional experience.

How is the graduate diploma different from the graduate certificate?

The graduate diploma is a deeper 36-unit award with core advanced practice topics plus a minor or option topics.

How long does it take?

The course is one year full-time, or the equivalent part-time. Students have up to four years to complete the award.

Can I progress to the masters?

Yes, this course provides a pathway to the Master of Advanced Practice (Health Leadership and Innovation) or Master of Advanced Practice (Clinical), subject to course rules and admission requirements.

Can I choose a minor?

Yes, students can complete an 18-unit Research or Workplace Project minor, or select 18 units of option topics

What areas can I study?

Options include governance, AI, health systems policy, strategic communication, evidence implementation, rural health, financing and workforce development.

Where is the course offered?

Online or Tonsley campus.

How do I apply?

Applications are through SATAC at satac.edu.au. Check SATAC for current closing dates.

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Frequently asked questions.

Find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

What documents do I need for my international application?

The type of documents you will need for your international application depends on what course you are applying for and which country you are a citizen of. Course requirements are stated on each course webpage. Examples of documentation you might expect to provide for your international application include a copy of personal identification, academic transcripts or a resume.

When should I apply for my student visa?

Once you have received your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) letter from Flinders University, you should apply for your visa as soon as possible as visa processing times can vary. You will receive your CoE letter after you have applied to study at Flinders, accepted your offer and paid the semester tuition fee.

Apply for a visa

Can I study part-time?

No. Part-time study is currently not available for international students due to visa conditions.

Can I study online?

No. Online study is currently not available for international students due to visa conditions.

What if I don’t meet English language requirements?

If you don’t meet our English language or academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through our on-campus pathway provider Flinders University Academy. Alternatively, you can improve your English language proficiency through our approved English Language Instruction Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) providers.

English language pathways

How do I apply?

You can apply to study as an international student directly through Flinders University or an authorised agent in your country.

If you are from one of the countries listed here, you are required to apply via an education agent. If you reside onshore in Australia, you will not require an agent even if you are from the countries listed above.

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Find an agent

Can I work while studying in Australia?

Yes. As a student visa (subclass 500) holder, you and your dependents (family members) can work up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study is in session. If you have started a master degree by research or doctoral degree, this rule does not apply to you and working hours are not restricted.

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What support services are available for international students?

Our dedicated International Student Services (ISS) team provide a range of programs supporting your enrolment, study and social life, as well as a referral service to facilities on campus and within the local community.

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Unable to find answers? Get in touch with us.

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Entry requirements

Academic program pathways

If you don’t meet our academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through Flinders University Academy. With a range of diplomas, foundation and English language courses, students can find a direct pathway into the destination degree of their choice.

Find out more

How to apply

Select your preferred course.

Check entry requirements.

Check individual course entries on SATAC for information on important dates.

Apply online at SATAC.

Apply directly via SATAC

2GD143 (Bedford) (CSP)

2GD143 (Bedford) (FFP)

Flinders students can apply to transfer to this course internally. Visit: www.flinders.edu.au/internaltransfer for more information.

After you apply

Receive your offer

SATAC will notify you of an offer on behalf of Flinders University by emailing the offer letter. Offers will be made to the highest preference for which you are both eligible and sufficiently competitive.

Accept and enrol

Accept via SATAC or your offer email, then complete enrolment through the Enrolling @ Flinders portal.

Check individual course entries on SATAC for information on important dates.

If you want to change your preference, you can update your application via SATAC.
If you are unsure about your next steps, talk to us about your study options.

Entry requirements
Application options

Entry requirements

English language requirements

If you don’t meet our English language entry requirements and need to improve your English language proficiency, you can do so through our approved English Language Instruction Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) providers.

Please note, a test is required as evidence of English language proficiency even if an English language program has been completed. Tests accepted are Academic IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and OET.

Find out more

Academic program pathways

If you don’t meet our academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through Flinders University Academy. With a range of diplomas, foundation and English language courses, students can find a direct pathway into the destination degree of their choice.

Find out more

Additional Requirements

Applicants must normally:

hold a degree or equivalent qualification in a related field from an approved tertiary institution, and;
have not less than two years of relevant clinical professional experience following completion of the degree or equivalent qualification or hold the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Practice (Clinical).

How to apply

Select your course.

Check entry requirements.

Check your eligibility for credit.

Apply online

Obtain certified documents.

Submit your application and documents.

View further details

Application options.

Apply online

Follow up our step-by-step guide to help you with your application to study at Flinders.

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Find an agent

Our registered education agents around the world understand the university system and will guide you through the application process.

View the full list of countries requiring agent assistance.

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Contact us

Get in touch with our team to discuss your preferences, career options, pathways, and course and entry requirements. We are here to ensure you have everything you need to choose the right degree for you.

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Don't meet academic requirements? Don't worry. We'll help you get there.

Preparatory courses

If you lack required English proficiency, improve through Flinders University Academy or approved ELICOS providers for direct university entry without IELTS/TOEFL tests.

Learn more

Flinders University Academy

If you do not meet entry requirements for your desired degree, Flinders University Academy will provide you with a direct pathway into the destination degree of your choice.

Learn more

We’re here to help you every step of the way.

If you would like to talk to one of our friendly advisors about applying to university or to discuss your study options and pathways, please contact us.

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