Health Courses

Australia’s healthcare and social assistance sector is the nation’s largest employer, engaging over 2.2 million individuals as of February 2025, which constitutes approximately 15.6% of the total workforce. This sector is projected to experience significant growth, with an expected increase of around 249,500 jobs (14.2%) by May 2026.

The demand for skilled professionals is particularly high in areas such as nursing, mental health, and allied health services. This surge is driven by factors including an aging population, increased mental health awareness, and advancements in healthcare technology.

Graduates from health courses often find employment soon after completing their studies, reflecting strong employability outcomes in this sector. With a broad range of career pathways, from clinical roles to research and healthcare management, pursuing the right course can equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this vital and ever-evolving field.

An impressive 75% of those working in Australia’s healthcare industry hold some form of higher education qualification. Health courses range from short courses and TAFE certificates to bachelor’s and graduate qualifications, providing pathways for every stage of your career. Whether you’re fresh out of school, changing careers, or looking to expand your skills, we can help you find the right course to match your goals.

Certificate courses

Certificate III and Certificate IV courses offer an excellent introduction to the industry and a strong pathway into entry-level roles such as patient care attendant, dental assistant, or medical administration professional.

You can also pursue specialised programs such as the Certificate III in Dental Assistance, Certificate IV in Health Services Assistance, or Certificate IV in Health Administration.

Across these courses, you’ll gain practical skills such as patient observation, health assessments, and a thorough understanding of medical terminology used across the healthcare sector.

Diploma Courses

Diploma-level health courses provide a valuable next step for those seeking more advanced career opportunities. These programs can prepare you for roles such as health and welfare services manager, mental health outreach worker, or practice manager. Diploma courses offer a strong blend of practical and theoretical knowledge, equipping you to navigate healthcare operations with confidence.

Bachelor’s and Graduate Diploma Courses

Bachelor’s degrees in health are ideal for those aspiring to higher-level health professional roles, such as dietitians and enrolled nurses. To become an enrolled nurse, you’ll need to complete an accredited Diploma of Nursing, which includes both coursework and supervised clinical training, while meeting specific entry requirements for registration.

For those aiming to become a registered nurse, a three-year Bachelor of Nursing is required. If you’ve already completed a Diploma of Nursing, this may reduce your overall study time through credit transfer.

Some great careers in health that you could be a part of include:

• Allied Health Assistant
• Chiropractor
• Dental Assistant
• Dental Technician
• Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Rehabilitation Assistant
• Psychologist
• Nutritionist
• Dietitian
• Naturopath
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Enrolled Nurse (EN)
• Medical Receptionist
• Pharmacy Assistant
• Pathology Collector (Phlebotomist)
• Health Administrator
• Community Services Worker
• Public Health Officer
• Social Worker
• Primary Health Care Nurse
• Individual Support Worker (Aged Care / Disability Support)

Health courses teach both practical skills and important knowledge to prepare you for real-world roles. Depending on the course, you might learn about:

• Providing personal care and support
• Understanding health and wellness principles
• Communicating effectively with patients and colleagues
• Working safely and ethically in health settings
• Promoting mental health and wellbeing
• Using healthcare technology and tools
• Managing client records and documentation

Many courses also include industry placements or hands-on training to help you build job-ready experience.

Healthcare management

Healthcare management is a vital field that ensures the smooth operation of healthcare facilities and the delivery of high-quality care. By studying healthcare management or practice management, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge needed to lead teams, manage resources, and implement public health policies that improve health outcomes for communities.

Industry professionals emphasise the importance of effective healthcare management in achieving positive health outcomes and promoting public health. With a qualification like the Diploma of Practice Management, you’ll be prepared to take on leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health organisations, making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and the broader health sector.

Technology and innovation in health

The healthcare sector is being transformed by rapid advances in technology and innovation. From breakthroughs in medical science and biomedical sciences to the rise of digital health solutions, new technologies are reshaping the way healthcare is delivered. Courses and research programs at leading universities, such as CDU, focus on the integration of technology in healthcare, including telehealth, health informatics, and the use of artificial intelligence in medical diagnostics.

Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, exploring how wearable devices, data analytics, and digital platforms can improve patient care and health outcomes. By studying the latest developments in medical science and biomedical sciences, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, ready to contribute to the future of healthcare and make a real difference in the lives of patients.

Global health

Global health is an exciting and impactful area of study that addresses the complex factors influencing health outcomes around the world. Students can participate in international placements and research projects, gaining firsthand experience in diverse communities, including Torres Strait Islander populations.

By engaging in global health studies, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the challenges facing healthcare systems worldwide and learn how to make a meaningful difference through research, policy, and community engagement. This field offers the chance to contribute to more equitable and sustainable healthcare for all, making it a truly rewarding career path for those passionate about making a positive impact.

Careers in health require a particular type of person, as roles often involve working directly with individuals who are frail, sick, injured, or in a state of crisis. Having genuine empathy, compassion, and respect for others is essential for this challenging and highly gratifying job.

To support these important people skills, you need to complete formal education to develop the necessary hard and soft skills required of healthcare workers, no matter your sector of choice.

Most health courses offer both full-time and part-time study options, as well as an online course delivery method. Online courses give students the flexibility to learn and study around other responsibilities, without a strict timetable. It’s important to note, however, that many health courses have entry requirements and a work placement component that must be conducted in person.

Enquire in a health course today and take your first step to make a difference in the lives of others and the broader health sector.