Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing
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Duration
1 year part-time
Intakes
Online (Semester 1, Semester 2) - View application and start dates
Study modes
- Online,
- Part-time
2022 Start Dates
2023 Start Dates
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of nursing in forensic mental health, including key legal principles and legislation and core clinical skills (such as violence risk assessment and management), enabling graduates to work effectively in forensic contexts or with forensic patients.
Course structure
Maximum Academic Credit
The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing is 25cp. credit points (normally two units)
Units of study
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Aims and objectives
- apply specialised knowledge of a broad range of theories and principles required for nursing practice in forensic mental health contexts
- apply specialised knowledge of the complex systemic and individual mental health factors that influence offending behaviour
- demonstrate an understanding of the range of complex factors that contribute to offending behaviour, both at a general and individual level
- identify and evaluate evidence that helps inform creative problem solving and decision making in the nursing role
- effectively communicate complex ideas in a coherent and informative manner with clients, carers and other health professionals
- adapt advanced knowledge and skills to the contexts of forensic mental health nursing, such as correctional or mental health settings
- adapt knowledge and core practice skills to develop, plan and implement responses to challenging issues faced by forensic mental health nurses.

Graduate skills
- Capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
- Entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
- Effective and ethical in work and community situations
- Adaptable to change
- Aware of local and international environments in which they are contributing (e.g. sociocultural, economic, natural).
Pathways and scholarships
- Credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Fees, entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.
Entry requirements
An Australian bachelor degree or equivalent in one of the following fields:
- Nursing
- Mental health nursing