Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Leadership

1. Assess professional learning and performance with autonomy, accountability, resilience and adaptability.
2. Apply sustainability frameworks to optimise health, social and community care services.
3. Appraise professional standards, competencies and ethical frameworks to inform professional learning and practice.
4. Work independently and collaboratively to develop frameworks that support health, social and community care services.
5. Contribute to scholarship, professional inquiry and knowledge translation to support the delivery of quality services.
6. Apply leadership and management frameworks within contemporary health, social and community care systems.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of health systems, policies and practices to improve service delivery.

The Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Leadership is designed for healthcare and service professionals who want to develop the knowledge and capabilities required to lead in complex, multidisciplinary healthcare environments. The course builds skills in leadership, strategic planning, health systems, governance and evidence-based practice.

Recommended study pattern

• Leading Change in Healthcare
• Strategic Planning and Management in Healthcare
• Envisioning Health Systems, Policies and Practices
• Governance and Accountability in Health Care.

Award requirements

To qualify for the Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Leadership, students must successfully complete 4 core units.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $12,000

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying part-time, which is typically 4 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Revolutionary learning for strong employment outcomes

At Southern Cross University, online study is designed to fit around your life without compromising on quality. Through the Southern Cross Model, you learn in focused six-week terms, usually studying one or two units at a time.

This immersive approach helps you stay motivated, build momentum and balance study with work, family and other commitments.

You'll be supported by innovative teaching, practical learning experiences and a university community committed to your success - whether you're interested in business, education, healthcare, law, engineering, IT, science or other career-focused study areas.

Your flexible online study comes with the support, connections and confidence to help you achieve your goals and take the next step in your career.

Learn more about Southern Cross University

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

31

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

32

Applicants may be considered for admission if they have:

• an Australian Bachelor degree (AQF7) or higher qualification; OR
• a Certificate IV or Diploma in a health or relevant service-related discipline plus at least one year of relevant professional experience; OR
• three years of relevant professional experience.

Relevant fields include: mental health, allied health, social work, counselling, psychology, exercise and sport science, disability, aged care, education, public health, community development, emergency services and related service/support fields.

SCU may grant credit for previous education, qualifications and/or work experience through advanced standing. Eligible credit can reduce the number of units required, overall study duration and course cost.

Studying online requires:

• A PC or Mac with the latest operating system 
• A fast, reliable internet connection 
• The latest version of Chrome or Firefox.

Sometimes, specific software or textbooks are required.