GC-CLSPEC v.1 Graduate Certificate in Clinical Specialisation

Graduate Certificates prepare students to develop advanced knowledge and skills for professional or highly skilled work and further learning corresponding to AQF level 8 qualifications.

The Graduate Certificate in Clinical Specialisation is designed to provide the theoretical foundations of nursing science, together with the clinical knowledge and skills associated with the specialisation. It focuses on the development of clinical leadership, promotion and integration of evidence-based nursing practice in the specialisation to foster the development of graduates consistent with the profile of the specialist, offering the advanced-level nurse further clinical skills and an opportunity to extend career options.

Students' specialisation is linked to their employment and focus on the development of leadership, critical thinking and clinical decision making. This course is not available to International Onshore Students on Student Visas.

Course Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. analyse critically, and evaluate advanced concepts of specialty nursing practice; integrate expert knowledge and integrated understanding to demonstrate competency at a level in accordance with specialty competency standards

2. critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise the environmental, physical and psychosocial aspects of the individual for effective clinical decision making; recognise own abilities and level of professional competence

3. investigate, analyse and synthesise complex evidence and scientific literature to inform decision making in specialty practice

4. integrate advanced communication skills within a legal and ethical framework related to complex clinical issues in area of specialty; interpret and transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences

5. effectively anticipate, plan for and use complex technology applications relevant to specialty practice

6. integrate autonomous, expert judgement, adaptability and responsibility as a lifelong learner in specialty practice; participate in research and critically appraise research findings and incorporate evidence based knowledge into clinical

7. critically appraise, evaluate and incorporate national and global health issues and strategic health care directions into specialty nursing practice

8. incorporate culturally aware and respectful specialty care to multicultural groups and indigenous communities

9. incorporate advanced theoretical and specialist knowledge and judgment, including advanced leadership and autonomy into specialty practice; work professionally in specialty practice demonstrating expert judgement, leadership and independence as a nurse in area of specialty; act as an experienced positive role model to peers and other members of the healthcare team

Duration and Availability

This course can be only undertaken on a part-time basis as there are concurrent employment requirements relevant to the specialty. It is recommended that students undertake 1-2 units of study per semester. This is necessary to accommodate the employment requirements in the discipline specialty to achieve clinical competency.

Location and delivery Mode

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

* The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.

^ Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.

# Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.

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Applicants for a Graduate Certificate are required to meet University academic and English language entry standards; details are provided at http://study.curtin.edu.au/. Applicants generally require a Bachelor Degree or equivalent credit gained for recognised learning. Any specific course entry and completion requirements must also be met.

Specifically, applicants must hold a bachelor degree and registration as a general nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Prospective applicants should have a minimum of 12 months experience in a specialist area of practice, and must be concurrently employed in an approved area, working a minimum of 24 hours per week. Curtin Singapore students must hold a bachelor degree recognised by Curtin University AND registration as a registered nurse with the Singapore Nursing Board.

Pathway to Further Study

Graduates may qualify for entry to some Graduate Diplomas and Master degrees. For further details, see the University website http://curtin.edu.au.