Nurse practitioners (NPs) are expert, highly qualified nurses who work autonomously at an advanced level of practice.
The role of NPs
An NP’s role extends beyond the usual scope of nursing practice. NPs can assess and diagnose patients, request and interpret tests, prescribe therapies and medications, and receive and make referrals to other health practitioners.
NP positions may be within acute care, aged care, primary health care or community settings.
Starting your career as an NP
NPs are registered nurses who have undertaken post graduate education (minimum of graduate certificate) in their specialty area in addition to a postgraduate Master of Nurse Practitioner (or equivalent).
To become an NP, you must have:
- the relevant qualifications
- demonstrated a high level of competence in their area of advanced/extended practice
- Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) nurse practitioner endorsement.
Course and application information
A Master of Nurse Practitioner (or equivalent) is offered at two South Australian universities. Further information regarding courses and entry requirements can be found at:
Applications are processed through the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Further information is available at the SATAC website.