Our advanced nursing programs are designed to prepare Registered Nurses for practice in specialised clinical areas, and provide clear pathways toward roles such as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Associate Nurse Unit Manager, Nurse Unit Manager, and Nurse Practitioner.

Our Supported Transition to Excellence in Practice (STEP) programs offer a strong foundation for postgraduate study. These programs allow nurses to build skills and confidence in a chosen specialty while being supported through a structured and comprehensive learning experience. STEP programs offer an ideal way to explore new career directions.

For those pursuing formal qualifications, our postgraduate programs offer a structured approach to developing both theoretical knowledge and clinical expertise. These programs are supported by experienced Clinical Nurse Educators, Clinical Support Nurses, and ward-based staff who are committed to your success.


Completing my post-graduate of midwifery degree with Northern Health has allowed me to expand upon my 10 years of nursing experience and branch into a new and fullfilling career as a midwife whilst working with an amazing support team. It’s never too late to further your studies and Northern Health will help you achieve it!

Overview

Northern Health has the busiest Emergency Department in Victoria with nearly 120,000 patients presenting each year. Our ED has 60 treatment cubicles including 5 resuscitation rooms and a designated paediatric pod.
The Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing (Emergency) is undertaken in partnership with Deakin University.

Program

Clinical and theoretical knowledge gained:

  • Adult & Paediatric Advanced Life Support
  • Invasive & Non invasive ventilation
  • Advanced haemodynamic monitoring
  • Triage
  • Advanced adult and paediatric patient assessment
  • Management of critically ill adult & paediatric patients

Supported rotations and clinical areas:

  • Resuscitation rooms
  • Triage
  • Paediatrics
  • General monitored cubicles
  • Fast track

Insight

  • Experience a wide range of exposure in our dynamic and supportive Department
  • Emergency and resuscitation presentations from all age groups and backgrounds (from neonates to the elderly population)
  • Exposure to diverse range of clinical presentations (Cardiac, respiratory, neurological, trauma, paediatrics and maternity)
  • Learn new skills including advanced life support, advanced airway procedures , mechanical ventilation, haemodynamic monitoring, triage and emergency mental health care
  • Work in collaboration with Ambulance Victoria and the Multidisciplinary team to deliver high quality, holistic care to our community

Support

  • Support provided by an experienced Nursing Education team
  • Additional study days incorporating practical knowledge & skills
  • Students are eligible for postgraduate study leave

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only

Overview

Northern Healthโ€™s state of the art Intensive Care Unit consists of 18 beds and provides exceptional collaborative care servicing approximately 1,600 admissions, and supporting approximately 3,600 Medical Emergency responses annually. Our ICU is staffed by Critical Care Registered Nurses and Intensive Care Medical Specialists who care for a wide range of culturally diverse patients with complex medical conditions, including multi organ failure, severe sepsis, renal failure, and respiratory failure requiring advanced mechanical ventilation.


The Graduate Certificate in Intensive Care Nursing is undertaken in partnership with Deakin University.

Program

  • Develop skills in Adult Advanced Life support
  • Develop an advanced understanding of normal physiology, and the pathophysiology of illness and injury of critically ill patients
  • Perform focused, systematic and methodical patient assessments
  • Develop skills to effectively manage ICU specific technologies and therapies including: continuous renal replacement therapy, advanced haemodynamic monitoring, non invasive ventilation, intubation and mechanical ventilation, nitric oxide, vasoactive medications and cardiac pacing.

Support

  • 19 study days held on Wednesdays by Deakin university via zoom. These consist of lectures as well as tutorial sessions held via breakout rooms.
  • 5 study days held by the ICU education team consisting of lectures and practical skills.
  • Day to day support on the unit provided by a team of experienced Clinical Support Nurses and Clinical Nurse Educators.

Further Information

Application Details

January 2026 start date

Employment at 0.8 EFT Fixed Term 12 months with opportunity for ongoing employment upon certificate completion

Applications Open to internal NH staff only

Overview

An exciting opportunity is now open for Registered Nurses within Perioperative Services to advance their careers by entering the 2026 Postgraduate Perioperative Nursing Program.


The Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing is undertaken in partnership with Deakin University.

Available Streams: Perioperative (all round), Perianaesthetics (anaesthetics & PACU), Intraoperative
(scrub/scout only)

Program

  • 12 month contract at 70 hrs per fortnight (shifts are 10 hours in length) with a rotating roster
  • Synchronous live Study days held virtually with Deakin

Selection criteria

  • Minimum 2 years RN experience
  • Minimum 1 year perioperative experience
  • or completion of STEP Perioperative
  • Hold existing contract at minimum of 0.6 EFT

Insight

  • Preparing, assessing, caring and advocating during the surgical patientsโ€™ journey
  • Building technical skills in airway management, patient assessment, surgical asepsis, surgical assisting, deteriorating patient management, post operative care
  • Building non technical skills in communication, teamwork and situational awareness
  • Clinical exposure to a wide variety of surgical specialties and complex patients

Support

  • Support is provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study leave upon application

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only. Please see advert for closing date.

Overview

An exciting opportunity is now open for Registered Nurses within Anaesthesia Services to advance their careers by entering the 2026 Postgraduate Anaesthesia Nursing Program.


The Graduate Certificate in Anaesthesia Nursing is undertaken in partnership with Deakin University.

Available Streams: Perioperative (all round), Perianaesthetics (anaesthetics & PACU), Intraoperative
(scrub/scout only)

Program

  • 12 month contract at 70 hrs per fortnight (shifts are 10 hours in length) with a rotating roster
  • Synchronous live Study days held virtually with Deakin

Selection criteria

  • Minimum 2 years RN experience
  • Minimum 1 year perioperative experience
  • or completion of STEP Perioperative
  • Hold existing contract at minimum of 0.6 EFT

Insight

  • Preparing, assessing, caring and advocating during the surgical patientsโ€™ journey
  • Building technical skills in airway management, patient assessment, surgical asepsis, surgical assisting, deteriorating patient management, post operative care
  • Building non technical skills in communication, teamwork and situational awareness
  • Clinical exposure to a wide variety of surgical specialties and complex patients

Support

  • Support is provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study leave upon application

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only. Please see advert for closing date.

Overview

Paediatric Services at Northern Health continue to grow in demand. In order to provide high quality care to our paediatric patients, Northern Health has a designated Ward 2 Paediatric Unit and Emergency Department Paediatric Pod.


The Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Nursing (GC PAEN) is undertaken in partnership with The University of Melbourne.

Program

  • 12 month contract at 0.8 EFT
  • 10 study days, 6 clinical hurdles
  • 2 rotations
  • Ward 2
  • ED paediatric pod
  • Opportunities for supported neonatal or paediatric surgical experiences

Ward 2 overview

A Paediatric acute medical and surgical ward encompassing many specialities such as orthopaedics, plastics, ENT and general surgery. Infantโ€™s and children right up to their 18th birthday are cared for in this ward. This ward is dynamic, very supportive and can see up 340 patients per month. You will gain invaluable knowledge of looking after a multitude of acute presentations, complex patients and surgical patients.

Emergency Department Paediatric Pod overview

A dedicated section for paediatric patients in the ED with patients being looked after by paediatric medical staff and a mix of skilled paediatric and ED nursing staff. It is a fast paced and supportive environment; where you will gain acute and advanced patient assessment knowledge and skills with the ability to build on your communication skills, and manage critical or time sensitive presentations.

Support

  • Support provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study leave on application

Further information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only. Please see advertisement for closing date.

Overview

Coronary Care is a fast paced environment with acutely unwell patients requiring multidisciplinary interventions. This program will develop knowledge and skills essential to care for 5,000 patients every year. The Cardiology Department operates a STEMI service 24/7 and is recognised as a leader in heart failure clinical research.


Develop critical thinking and clinical skills in the specialised field of Cardiac Nursing. Focus topics: Advanced life support; cardiac investigations & treatment; arrhythmia & 12 Lead ECG interpretation; advanced cardiovascular assessment; pathophysiology, assessment and management of acute coronary syndromes and heart failure.


Streaming options: Cardiac Care Unit runs in partnership with Latrobe University Cath Lab stream in partnership with Deakin University.

Program

  • Commences February 2026
  • Employment at minimum of 0.6 EFT in Coronary Care Unit Ward 15 or Cardiac Catheter Lab
  • Mixed method of delivery with online & face to face study
  • Rotations may include:
  • Cath Lab
  • CCU
  • ICU

Insight

  • Care for STEMI and NSTEMI acute patients before and following Cardiac Catheter Lab interventions.
  • Care of acute patients requiring inotropic infusions, non invasive ventilation, temporary pacing wire and haemodynamic monitoring.
  • Developing non technical skills in communication, teamwork and situational awareness
  • Procedural nursing management of interventional cardiac patients in Cath Lab.
  • Pre and post nursing management of interventional cardiac patients.

Support

  • Support provided by experienced Clinical Nurse Educator team
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study leave on application

Further information

Application Details

Requirement: Minimum 0.6 EFT on Ward 15 or Cath Lab.

Applications Open to internal NH staff only

Overview

An exciting opportunity exists for enthusiastic, motivated & dedicated Registered Nurses to advance their nursing careers within the Renal Services at Northern Health in our Postgraduate Rena l Nursing intake for 2026 runs in partnership with UTAS.


The Renal services at Northern Health provide care for acute and chronic renal patients across northern region. Services are located at Epping, Broadmeadows and Craigieburn campuses. Outpatient haemodialysis is provided to patients at the satellite units, while the In centre Dialysis unit mainly provides haemodialysis to acute in patients and to patients starting their first treatments. The Home Dialysis Training Unit support patients requiring peritoneal dialysis or haemodialysis to have home based treatment.

Program

  • 12 month contract at 0.8 EFT
  • Program is run fully online with University
  • Clinical component is supported with clinical hurdles, workshops and onsite clinical support
  • Rotations and clinical experience may include:
  • Broadmeadows Hospital Satellite Dialysis Unit
  • Northern Epping Satellite Dialysis Unit
  • Northern Hospital In centre Dialysis Unit
  • Home Dialysis Training Unit
  • Ward 4

Insight

  • Preparing, assessing, caring and advocating for the renal patient during the dialysis treatment
  • Building technical skills in dialysis management, patient assessment, Vascular access management, CVC management, risk identification and mitigation, deteriorating patient management
  • Developing non technical skills in communication, teamwork and situational awareness, collaborating closely with the medical, nursing and allied health teams
  • Clinical exposure to a wide variety of complex renal patients

Support

  • Support provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study on application

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only

Overview

Ward 5 and Day Oncology Unit is a specialised Haematology, Oncology, Medical department that provides care to patients throughout all stages of their cancer journey, from diagnosis, treatment, cure and end of life care. This dynamic department is based on strong teamwork enabling nurses to provide comprehensive patient education,
assessment and treatment.

The Graduate Certificate in Cancer Nursing is delivered in partnership with the University of Melbourne.

Program

  • 12 month program Minimum 0.6 EFT in cancer services
  • January commencement
  • Four core subjects and two electives
  • Flexible online learning
  • Immersive clinical learning
  • Clinical competency assessments

Insight

  • Assessing, educating, caring, and advocating for the cancer patient during their admission
  • Working collaboratively with the medical team, pharmacy, and allied health to ensure optimal patient care and positive outcomes throughout treatment
  • Ensuring holistic, compassionate, and thoughtful care is provided to all patients
  • Managing the side effects and toxicities associated with anti cancer treatment
  • Administrating various chemotherapy and immunotherapy regimens
  • Maintenance and management of central lines
  • Blood product administration
  • Taking part in projects to improve cancer patients outcomes and wellbeing, and staff knowledge and confidence in caring for these patients.

Support

  • Support provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study leave on application

Further information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff within cancer services only. Please see advertisement for advertising closing date.

Overview

The Neonatal Unit (NNU) at Northern Health is an 17 bed Level 5 High Dependency Unit that cares for a wide range of neonates from 30 weeks gestation to approximately a month of age. We endeavour to provide up to date, evidence based family centred care to neonates.


The multidisciplinary team consists of registered nurses, registered midwives, nurse unit manager, neonatal nurse practitioner, medical team, physiotherapists, speech therapists, social workers, occupational therapists and neonatal education team.


The Neonatal Code Team comprises of nursing and medical staff from NNU. They respond to all neonatal codes across the hospital. The team assess, treat and stabilise the patient. If intensive care is required the patient is prepared for the PIPER (Paediatric Infant and Perinatal Infant Retrieval) team.


The Graduate Certificate in Neonatal Care is provided in partnership with La Trobe University

Program

  • Internal applicants with existing contract in Neonatal Unit at minimum of 0.6 EFT
  • 4 units via Latrobe University
  • Theoretical & clinical assessments
  • Support provided by experienced Clinical Nurse Educator & Clinical Support Nurses
  • At completion of the program, students will be able to care for the Level 5 neonatal patient and assist with retrieval of the sick neonate

Insight

  • low flow oxygen therapy
  • seizure observation & management
  • intravenous therapy & antibiotics
  • hypoglycaemia management
  • phototherapy for jaundice
  • thermoregulation management
  • feeding assessment management & support
  • observation & management of neonates of chemically dependent women
  • resuscitation & stabilisation of newborns and neonates
  • non invasive respiratory support (CPAP or High Flow Nasal Prong)
  • ongoing management & care of infants following transfer from Level 6 tertiary Neonatal Units (approximately 25% of admissions)
  • minimally invasive surfactant therapy (MIST)
  • investigation, diagnosis & counselling for genetic conditions

Further Information

Application Details

Must hold existing EFT in the Neonatal unit at a minimum of 0.6

Applications Open to internal NH staff only

Overview

Surgical nurses are specialised nurses who work closely with patients and their families, providing complex clinical and holistic care, from pre operative to post operative management, to preparing patients and their families for discharge and beyond. Working within a wider multi disciplinary team, it is important that surgical nurses have the knowledge and confidence to interact in a collaborative and professional manner in order to care and advocate for healthcare consumers. As clinical care and patient needs become more complex, it is important for nurses to develop
specialist nursing knowledge and advance their clinical skills if they are to deliver the best, evidence based and person centred care.


Working in a fast paced, ever changing environment, surgical nursing can be a very exciting and rewarding career choice, with many opportunities for career advancement, from Clinical Nurse Specialist to Nurse Practitioner.


The Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing: Surgical runs in partnership with UTAS

Program

  • Program runs in an affiliate model: (3 units online with UTAS & 1 unit onsite at NH) or a fully online option
  • Staff must be employed in a permanent position, at minimum 0.6 eft in a Northern Health surgical ward
  • Northern Health units are supported with teaching from surgical program specialists and experienced surgical nursing staff
  • Must be available to work day, evening & weekend shifts to ensure clinical assessments can be completed
  • Assessments include: essays, projects, oral presentations & clinical hurdles
  • Study days, including 1 x Theatre & 1 x Outpatient Services

Support

  • Support provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • Outpatient Services

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only. Please see advertisement for closing date

Overview

Medical Nursing is the foundation of your nursing career, providing you with the knowledge & skills to advance your future practice. Medical Nursing will advance your patient assessment skills enabling more meaningful and effective care planning for the individual patient and provides a good basis for ongoing re evaluation of the patient and
the effectiveness of treatment during their inpatient journey.

Medical Nursing is complex; challenging, and often patient conditions are not curative but managing chronic conditions signs & symptoms for a better quality of life. Medical
Nursing has a diverse patient cohort, each patient will present with various care needs requiring nurses to expand their knowledge base throughout their careers. In constructing specialist nursing knowledge and skills, students will evaluate care strategies that can be applied within the Medical Nursing setting.


The Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing: Medical runs in partnership with UTAS

Program

  • Program runs in an affiliate model: (3 units online with UTAS & 1 unit onsite at NH) or a fully online option
  • Northern Health units are supported with teaching from Medical program specialists and experienced Medical nursing staff
  • Program is supported with teaching from medical program specialists and experienced medical nursing staff
  • Clinical hurdles designed to expand and implement advanced nursing practice
  • Assessments include: essays, projects, oral presentations & clinical hurdles
  • Students undertake this program working within their existing medical ward at Northern Health

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only.. Please see advertisement for closing date

Overview

Gerontology Nursing has a diverse patient cohort, each patient will present with chronic care needs requiring nurses to expand their knowledge base throughout their careers.

Gerontology nursing is an evidence based nursing specialty practice that addresses the unique physiological, psychosocial, developmental, economic, cultural, and spiritual needs related to the process of aging and care of older adults; this is done in collaboration with older adults and their significant others to promote autonomy, wellness, optimal functioning, comfort, and quality of life from healthy aging to end of life care. Gerontological nurses lead inter professional teams in a holistic, person centered approach in the specialised care of older adults.


The Graduate Certificate in Nursing: University of Tasmania

Program

  • 4 units focusing on Geriatrics and associated conditions.
  • Students are employed within their existing contracts whilst undertaking the program
  • Clinical hurdles designed to expand and implement advanced nursing practice
  • Applicants must be committed to a 12 month program

Support

  • Support provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses
  • All students are eligible for postgraduate study leave: pro rata 0.6 EFT minimum

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff only. Please see advertisement for closing dates.

Overview

Plastic Surgery nurses are specialised nurses who work closely with patients and their families, providing complex clinical and holistic care, from pre operative to post operative management, to preparing patients and their families for discharge and beyond. Working within a wider multi disciplinary team, it is important that Plastic Surgery nurses have the knowledge and confidence to interact in a collaborative and professional manner in order to care and advocate for healthcare consumers. As plastic surgery evolves and clinical needs become more complex, it is important for plastics nurses to develop specialist nursing knowledge and advance their clinical skills if they are to deliver the best, evidence based and person centred care.

Working in a fast paced, ever changing environment, Plastics and Reconstruction nursing is a very exciting and rewarding career choice, with many opportunities for career advancement, from Clinical Nurse Specialist to Nurse Practitioner.

The Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing: Plastics and Reconstruction runs in partnership with Australian Catholic University and St. Vincent’s Private Hospital

Program

  • 2 x 2 model comprising 2 units online with ACU & 2 units onsite at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital & Northern Health
  • This program will run over 12 months commencing 2027
  • Students will continue working within their surgical specialty unit of employment at Northern Health
  • Study Days for the 2 St Vincentโ€™s units are delivered on site by specialist clinicians and supported by experienced surgical nursing staff
  • Assessments include: essays, exams, oral presentations & clinical hurdles
  • Optional Northern Health study days:
  • 1 x Theatre
  • 1 x Clinic / Shadow shift (CNC/NPC)

Support

  • Support provided by a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Educators & Clinical Support Nurses

Further information

Application Details

Next program due 2027

Overview

Respiratory care is an ever increasing service within Northern Health, providing the opportunity for career advancement within the Respiratory Nursing field. Northern Health has a dedicated Respiratory Ward consisting of four Respiratory Care Unit beds, which are allocated for complex respiratory patients that require advanced patient assessment skills and knowledge surrounding non invasive ventilation and other complex treatments. This area of speciality is growing and requires passionate nurses to undertake this dynamic role to care for the Northโ€™s respiratory needs.


Respiratory Nursing is complex; challenging, and often patient conditions are not curative but managing chronic conditions signs and symptoms for a better quality of life. Respiratory Nursing has a diverse patient cohort, each patient will present with various care needs requiring nurses to expand their knowledge base throughout their careers. Nursing staff will be well supported from the respiratory education team, which includes Clinical Nurse Educator, Clinical Support Nurse and Respiratory Nurse Consultants.


The Graduate Certificate in Nursing (specialisation in Respiratory Nursing), runs in partnership with UTAS

Program

  • Program is an affiliate model with 3 units online with UTAS & 1 unit run onsite at Northern Health
  • Multi method delivery; with online learning, face to face study days and tutorials
  • Program is supported with teaching from the Education Team, Respiratory CNCs, & Respiratory Medicine
  • Clinical hurdles designed to expand and implement advanced nursing practice within the respiratory field
  • Assessments include: essays, projects, oral presentations & clinical hurdles
  • Students must hold existing contract in Ward 20 or 22 at Northern Health at a minimum of 0.6 EFT

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff Wards 20 & 22 only. Please see advertisement for closing date.

Overview

Neurology & Stroke Care is an ever increasing service within Northern Health, providing the opportunity for career advancement within Neuroscience Nursing.


The Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Neuroscience) will advance your knowledge and neurological assessment skills enabling meaningful and effective care planning for the individual patient during their journey. Neuroscience nursing incorporates information on acute and chronic neuro conditions, education of the patient and their carers for ongoing management at home. Discharge planning is vital from the time of admission.


Neuroscience Nursing is complex; challenging, and often patient conditions are not curative but focus on managing chronic conditions signs & symptoms for a better quality of life.

Neuroscience Nursing has a diverse patient cohort, each patient will present with various care needs requiring nurses to expand their knowledge base throughout their careers.

Northern Health will run the Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Neuroscience) in partnership with UTAS commencing February 2026

Program

Program is a 12 month online model with University of Tasmania

Date: commences from end of February 2026

Students must hold existing contract within the Neurology ward (21) during the program and work a minimum of 0.6

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff Ward 21 only. Please see advertisement for closing date.

Overview

Palliative Care Nursing focuses on preserving the quality of life of individuals with a life limiting illness by managing pain & other symptoms caused by their conditions. Palliative Care Nursing identifies and treats symptoms related to life limiting illnesses, encompassing physical, emotional, spiritual and psychosocial needs. Palliative Care Nursing is a holistic family centred model of care meaning that nursing staff specialise in the practical & emotional support of the patient as well as their families & carers.


Palliative Care Nursing is complex and challenging, patient conditions are not curable however the emphasis is on symptom management for better quality of life. Palliative Care Nursing has a diverse patient cohort, each patient will present with various care needs requiring nurses to expand their knowledge base throughout their careers.
In constructing specialist nursing knowledge and skills, students will evaluate care strategies that can be applied within the Palliative Care setting.


The Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing: Palliative Care runs in partnership with Flinders University

Program

  • Program is an online model with Flinders University
  • Multi method delivery; with online learning, and webinars
  • Program is supported by Palliative Care specialists and experienced Palliative Care Nursing staff
  • Assessments include: essays, projects, & hurdles
  • Students undertake this program working within the existing Palliative Care ward at Northern Health

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Open to internal NH staff working in palliative care ward 3 only. Please see advertisement for closing date.

Overview

Our midwifery services at Northern Health provide care for women in one of Melbourneโ€™s most rapidly growing regions. These maternity services include care for women with both low and high risk pregnancies within a level 5 service capability and
level 5 neonatal unit. Northern Health is committed to providing family centred care to our diverse community of women originating from over 40 different countries and speaking over 100 languages and their babies.


In 2026 Northern Health will be supporting this program as a partial supernumerary, fully paid model in partnership with La Trobe University.

Program

  • 12 month contract at 0.6 paid EFT
  • 4 days with patient load in postnatal
  • 2 days paid supernumerary in birthing suite
  • Rotations across midwifery continuum:
  • Birthing Suites
  • Postnatal Ward
  • Opportunities to
  • Support provided by experienced Clinical Midwife Educator & Clinical Support Midwife
  • Exposure to low to high risk pregnancy care
  • Access to midwifery specific simulation based training
  • The opportunity to work within a friendly and progressive team in a rapidly expanding and dynamic organisation

Insight

  • Admission & discharge planning
  • Caring & advocating for birthing people and families
  • Working collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team
  • Providing supportive labour and birthing care
  • Support the development of pregnancy care in the antenatal clinic
  • Care of higher needs babies in the neonatal unit
  • Supporting breastfeeding and mother crafting
  • Support of families in the new parenting journey
  • Opportunity to build and apply knowledge through structure program with support of experienced Clinical Midwifery staff and educators

Students will be selected via a formal application and interview process

Further Information

Application Details

Applications Now Open – Closing September 3rd 2025

“I am glad I chose the STEP program as the supportive team and family-like environment here have made this challenging process so enjoyable. The STEP program prepares you for advanced practice and provides a strong foundation for postgraduate studies.”

Supported Transition to Excellence in Practice (STEP) program at Northern Health offers;

  • A friendly and supportive working and learning environment.
  • Supported transition into a new area of nursing practice if desired, or the opportunity to advance your skills whilst based in your existing ward or unit.
  • Structured educational preparation using a case scenario approach, simulation and adult learning principles.
  • Study days structured to enhance professional development with topics ranging from patient assessment to career planning.
  • A foundation for postgraduate studies.
  • The ability to increase acute, sub-acute and complex care skills and develop new expertise as a future leader in nursing practice at Northern Health.

Areas of opportunity may include:

  • Emergency
  • Intensive Care
  • Perioperative
  • Cardiac Care
  • Renal
  • Respiratory
  • Neonatal
  • Cancer Care
  • Neurology/Stroke
  • Advancing Practice STEP

Further information


Online Application

From here you should “Sign Up” and select the appropriate postgraduate position for which you would like to apply

Please “sign up” using your Northern Health email address

Follow the instructions and upload the required documents

Application Requirements

  • Type written letter of application expressing your interest in the course (one page length)
  • Addressed to the relevant Clinical Nurse Educator
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Certified copy of Academic Transcript and/or Hospital examination results
  • Name, email and phone number of 2 professional referees
  • Ensure you meet selection criteria
  • Typed written letter of application expressing your interest in the course (one page length)
  • Addressed to Melanie Riseley and Melanie Alcorn
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Clear scanned photo of yourself on front page of CV

University Application Requirements

  • Apply to partner university via link in relevant program (We suggest you wait until a placement offer is made to you from the health service)
  • Provide required documentation as required by the university for admission

Please note: acceptance to university does not guarantee you a position in the program at Northern Health. You must undergo the selection process for a supported clinical position. Upon successful selection Northern Health will nominate you to the relevant university.

Application Information

Refer to Success Factors advertisement for application dates

STEP is designed as an introduction to the specialty area or an opportunity to upskill with a foundation level course within your existing ward area.

Postgraduate studies lead to a formal qualification and require candidates to have experience in this specialty area prior to undertaking the program.

STEP is a Northern Health program run completely within the Health Service. There is no cost associated with STEP programs.

Postgraduate Studies are partnered with a university and the clinical component is supported by Northern Health. There is a fee associated with Postgraduate Studies and these are dependant on the university and program undertaken.

Academic: Usually there is 1- 4 semesters/ terms  throughout the year commencing in January and in some cases early February.

Academic content and assessment are controlled by the university. For details please see relevant university website.

Study days are conducted throughout the year via the university and clinical area dependent on the course, and can be a combined learning model of face to face sessions, online and webinars.

Clinical: Rotations are facilitated by the Clinical Nurse Educators in each area as required to meet clinical hurdle requirements set by the university.

Students are employed on a 1  year contract generally at 0.8 EFT per fortnight at the relevant substantive grade. Some programs only employ from existing staff within that specialty ward (please check relevant advertisement).

This may be negotiated, but 0.8 EFT is recommended for a balanced work/study life.

The minimum requirement for postgraduate study from all universities for a Clinical Graduate Certificate is 0.6 EFT.

Your continual employment within the area is dependent on successful completion of all criteria both clinically and academically, as you are employed in the clinical area while undertaking the academic units.

Applications should be made directly to Northern Health and the relevant university.

You can apply to the university after you have been granted a clinically supported position at Northern Health or at the same time of application.

You must be granted admission to university and be successful with Northern Health.

Acceptance at university does not guarantee acceptance at Northern Health.

On successful completion of your academic and clinical requirements you will be awarded a Graduate Certificate/ Diploma in the area you have studied in.

The cost of the Graduate Certificate depends on the university fees and the model in which you undertake your study.  You should expect to pay for your studies.  This can be around $12000.

Scholarships can be a good way in which you support your study and a variety of suggestions  can be found on the NH intranet; scholarships page, and via other nursing organisations (ANMF, ACN, university).

Some universities offer a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP). You will need to enquire about this on enrolment to the university. If you have a CSP place this may make you ineligible for some scholarships, so please check carefully if you meet the criteria for scholarship.

You will be notified via email if you have been successful in gaining an interview. Interviews are scheduled to be held in August / September.

The interview may be undertaken via Microsoft Teams or face to face as negotiated with the panel. The interview panel will inform you of exact details via email.

Northern Health will conduct a panel interview consisting of 2-3 senior nursing staff. This may include a Nurse/ Midwife Unit Manager, Education Coordinator and a Clinical Nurse Educator.

You do not need to certify documentation. All documentation should be uploaded to your success factors application portal. You may be required to produce original documents if requested.

Referees preferably should be NUM, ANUM or CNE level.

You should ask their permission prior to listing them on your CV.

It is most helpful if they have recently worked with you and are aware of the program you are applying for.

A professional portfolio is a good way to excel within an interview as it will showcase your achievements to the interview panel. More information about how to compile a career portfolio can be found on the internet.

Interviews for the 2026 Graduate Diploma in Midwifery Clinical Placement intake will take place
in September

Interviews may be undertaken via Microsoft Teams or in person upon negotiation

Candidates will be notified via email

Yes. Northern Health will be running a fully paid model for 2026 . The programme will include 0.4 paid (shifts in the maternity ward and neonatal unit) and 0.2 paid (supernumerary clinical placement shifts in birth suite and antenatal clinic).

There will be 10 positions available in 2026.

The placements will be available at Northern Health predominately the Northern Hospital Epping. Students may be required on a limited basis to travel to the antenatal clinic services Craigieburn in order to complete clinical placement or other learning requirements.

Outside of your academic blocks you will be rostered 3 paid days paid per week a week on clinical placement in order to meet your clinical requirements. This includes 2 shifts on the postnatal ward or neonatal unit and 1 shift in antenatal clinic or birth suite. Your roster will contain a mix of AMs (Mornings) PMs (Afternoons) ND (Night Duty) and weekends.

Students must be available to work a rotating roster to ensure equitable allocation of time in each rotation

Due to the fully paid model, you will be rostered alongside registered midwives/nurses on the postnatal ward and neonatal unit. Shift requests can be entered on RosterOn.

Due to the high volume of midwifery student placements facilitated by Northern Health each year from a variety of midwifery pathways, there is limited flexibility choose your roster. Requests will be considered, however there will not be the availability of set roster patterns

Yes. You may be on call as part of your continuity of care experience requirements as per ANMAC.

Some of our Graduate Diploma of Midwifery students do continue to hold a casual or part time job during their Graduate Diploma of Midwifery. However, the demands of the programme (continuity of care, the academic program and clinical placements) combining this with paid work outside of your 0.6 will be challenging.

Yes. You will need to purchase a uniform from LaTrobe ready to wear on your first clinical placement day.

No. Northern Healthโ€™s only partnership for the Graduate Diploma of Midwifery is with La Trobe University.

Applicants must demonstrate admission to Latrobe University, and enrolment in the Graduate Diploma in Midwifery program. Applicants who do not gain admission through La Trobe University, cannot undertake clinical placement at Northern Health

Applications for the 2026 program open Mid August, 2025 and close September, 2025.
Applications will be via Success Factors, please check Northern Health website for details .

Study leave is available to be taken during university teaching blocks and exam periods. There is limited opportunity for annual leave to be taken during the program. Long periods of leave during the program should not be planned as these are unable to be accommodated. Applicants should also be aware that placements may extend into January 2027 in order to complete required hurdles or birth numbers in order to register as a midwife.

Do you have any further questions?

Postgraduate studies can seem expensive; however there are many ways to assist with payment of your fees.

Fees are set by the university and details are specific to the course. Please see relevant university links for fee structure

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) may be available and also Fee Help. Your university will provide the information on enrolment.

Scholarship Opportunities to investigate:

  • Department of Health โ€“ see next bloc
  • ANMF
  • Australian College of Nurses
  • ANMC
  • Associated University
  • Special interest groups or governing bodies โ€“ ACORN, ACCCN etc.
  • Northern Health may provide scholarships in some specialty areas

The key purpose of the Aboriginal Postgraduate Nursing and Midwifery Program is to provide opportunity for Aboriginal
nurses and midwives to gain specialty skills whilst employed within a Victorian public health service. For the individual
applicant, the scholarship will contribute to achieving career development, while reducing some of the financial burden of undertaking postgraduate studies.

At the organisational level, the scholarship will contribute to a stronger Aboriginal health workforce and to improved service delivery outcomes for the community, by supporting Aboriginal nurses and midwives to gain further skills and formal knowledge.

If you are enrolled in post graduate study you may be eligible to apply for postgraduate study leave granted by Northern Health as part of your EBA.

A formal application is required along with evidence of enrolment and submitted as per instructions on the form

Applications will be assessed by the Postgraduate Program Coordinator and formal notification provided to the NUM

Leave is managed through your NUM using the usual leave request forms. Please discuss the days required with the CNE coordinating the postgraduate program you are undertaking as to the specific university requirements for study day attendance.

Any other study leave requests need to be negotiated with your NUM/Manager. Once leave has been approved you must show proof of enrolment each semester of study, so that appropriate EBA leave entitlements can be supported.

Full time nurses will be allocated 104 hours of postgraduate study leave across the calendar year

Part time nurses are entitled to a pro-rata basis according to the exact EFT worked

All staff undertaking postgraduate studies who have been at Northern Health for more than 18 months, are entitled to an additional 5 days of examination/ major assessment leave

Staff studying may also utilize their existing EBA Professional Development Leave entitlement

Annual allocation of leave for postgraduate will be taken once approved and divided into allotments according to the academic term / semester.

Staff studying for 1 semester or term will be allocated a pro-rata entitlement. Please refer to staff leave policy

The employee must provide evidence of enrolment for second semester or 3rd / 4th term before further allocation of study leave

It is expected that the employee will notify their direct manager if postgraduate study is discontinued, and the employee is no longer entitled to this award

Guide for allocation of hours:

EFTPG Study leaveExamination/Major assessment leaveProfessional Development Leave
Full time 1 EFT104 hours5 days5 days
0.8 EFT83 hours5 daysPro rate per EBA
0.6 EFT62 hours5 daysPro rate as per EBA

Further Information


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