While there are no HSC subjects specified as a prerequisite for admission, applicants are advised that the course involves the study of science-based subjects. Applicants will benefit from having studied mathematics and English as well as science subjects, preferably physics and biology.
Successful applicants who believe they do not have an appropriate science background may consider undertaking subjects offered in the University’s STUDY LINK supplementary program prior to commencing study in the course.
Senior First Aid Certificate
All students are required to have a current Senior First Aid Certificate, obtained at their own cost, from an accredited body (Workcover approved) before undertaking clinical placements.
NOTE: As many courses include a clinical practicum in the first semester, students are advised to complete their Senior First Aid Certificate prior to commencement of their first year of study.
Criminal Record Clearance
The Department of Health in NSW, and most other states, currently require all health facility staff, including students on clinical placement, to undergo criminal record checks. The checks are intended to identify people who have convictions for such things as violence or sexual offences, who may put patients’/clients’ personal safety or health at risk. Traffic violations and other minor offences are not of interest.
All students must therefore have a Criminal Record Clearance prior to placement in any capacity in the NSW Health system and most other State organisations. Prospective students should be aware that an inability to obtain a Criminal Record Clearance will make it impossible to complete this course satisfactorily as it will not be possible to arrange suitable clinical placements.
In addition, all students are required to complete a Prohibited Employment Declaration indicating whether or not they are a prohibited person under the Child Protection Act 1998.
If you have any queries regarding these requirements, including the opportunities available for review of a particular case, contact the Course Coordinator.
Immunisation
NSW Health have introduced an immunisation policy, Occupational Screening and Vaccination Against Infectious Diseasesfor all health facility staff, including students on clinical placement, to undergo mandatory vaccination.
All students must undergo vaccination against infectious diseases prior to placement within the NSW Health System, and most other Australian State Health Systems. Results of these vaccinations are kept on a personal record card (available from the School through which the student is studying). This card must be presented, upon request, by NSW Health, or other State Health staff, whilst the student is on placement.
PLEASE NOTE that, as many courses involve clinical practicums in the first semester of study, the Hepatitis B immunisation should be commenced early, in order for full immunisation status to be attained prior to clinical placements and so meet NSW Health requirements.
Further information is available from NSW Health.