Graduate Diploma of Perioperative Nursing

About the course

Designed for registered nurses working in perioperative settings, this Graduate Diploma builds specialist knowledge and professional capability to support patients undergoing and recovering from major operations. Delivered externally with learning supported through partner health services, the program can be completed in one year full time (or part time). Graduates may progress to the Master of Nursing (Perioperative). This is a Graduate Diploma in Nursing. The programme develops advanced clinical reasoning, health leadership, and evidence-based practice for complex care environments.

Career outcome

Graduates can strengthen their practice in perioperative nursing across partner hospitals and health services, supporting safe surgical patient care before, during and after procedures. The qualification supports career development in perioperative environments such as operating theatres and related surgical services, and can provide a pathway to further postgraduate study (e.g., Master of Nursing (Perioperative)). This is a Graduate Diploma leading to specialist Nursing roles.

Living Costs in Sydney**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 22	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 2,207 - 2,918	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,599 - 2,115
Transportation (Daily) A$ 9 - 10	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 219 - 290

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)