Which Is the Best Place to Study Nursing in 2024 - Australia, New Zealand or Canada?

Choosing a career pathway is a significant decision that can often leave you in a dilemma. While good decision-making skills can save you some trouble, it is essential to consider all the facts before making such life-changing choice. In this blog, we aim to guide nursing students and early professionals through their decision-making process by providing valuable insights about studying nursing abroad.

Nursing Study Abroad: Australia, Canada & New Zealand

When it comes to pursuing a nursing career overseas, certain countries offer excellent opportunities for growth and development. Australia, Canada, and New Zealand are highly preferred destinations for internationally educated nurses (IENs) seeking to enhance their nursing education and career prospects. Each country has its unique benefits and study methods that can help further your nursing career on a global platform. Let's explore the various parameters to consider when choosing between these countries.

1. Healthcare System

The prosperity of a country largely depends on the quality of its healthcare system. Aspiring nursing students and professionals planning to study and work abroad should carefully consider the healthcare system of their chosen country. This not only affects job opportunities but also influences their future growth as international nurses.

Australia

Ranked as the healthiest nation in the southern hemisphere, Australia boasts an average life expectancy of 82.8 years, ranking fourth in the world. However, the country still has room for improvement in terms of resource allocation and patient outcomes. While Australia's healthcare system is generally considered one of the best, there is always scope for further development.

Canada

Canada's healthcare system, known as Medicare, provides medically necessary and hospital physician services to all citizens. Each province can decide whether to cover supplementary benefits such as dental care and drug coverage. Although not perfect, Canada utilises the latest technology and implements eHealth concepts to reduce waiting times and increase staff efficiency.

New Zealand

New Zealand has an active healthcare system and an average life expectancy of 81.6 years. The country offers a mixture of free and subsidised services to its residents, with exceptions for visitors from countries like the UK and Australia. While New Zealand presents a favourable environment for nursing professionals, the cost of living is relatively higher compared to Canada.

2. Education Standard

The quality of nursing education varies from country to country. It is crucial to consider the educational opportunities and new skills you can acquire in your chosen destination.

Australia

Renowned for its excellence in education, Australia offers dynamic and progressive nursing programs. The country's nursing schools provide comprehensive education programs designed to meet the needs of the healthcare industry.

Canada

Considered an education superpower, Canada has achieved top-tier rankings in global education. With an emphasis on practical learning and hands-on experiences, Canadian nursing programs are particularly attractive to young nurses seeking international education.

New Zealand

New Zealand offers both public and private education models. The country is known for its globally recognized quality-driven practices. Bachelor degrees obtained in New Zealand are highly regarded internationally for postgraduate programs. While the University of Auckland is the only New Zealand university listed among the top 100 universities by QS World University Rankings, Canada has three universities in the list.

3. Affordability

Moving to a developed country for education can be expensive, but proper planning and research can make it more manageable. Consider factors such as program features, geographical location, length of the program, and the level of support available to determine the affordability of your chosen destination.

Australia

While Australia is a top choice for international students, it is also known to be one of the most expensive countries to study in. Besides tuition fees, the cost of living should also be taken into account. However, the cost of studying at Australian universities varies depending on the location and level of study.

Canada

Canada offers affordable study options for IENs, with lower tuition fees compared to countries like the UK, US, and Australia. The cost of living is also relatively favourable, and part-time work opportunities allow students to earn enough to cover their expenses.

New Zealand

Although New Zealand is emerging as a popular study destination, the country's tuition fees tend to be higher than those in Canada. International students must show sufficient funds to cover living and accommodation costs, similar to other study destinations. Scholarships for tuition fees are less common in New Zealand.

4. Salary

While salary should not be the sole determining factor, it is crucial to consider the compensation you will receive after investing time, effort, and savings in your nursing education.

Australia:

Upon completing the necessary education and becoming a Registered Nurse in Australia, you can expect an average annual salary of $65,000. Salary variations exist based on location, qualifications, experience, and seniority. Considering the investment in your education, this salary is among the most lucrative.

Canada:

Achieving Registered Nurse status in Canada proves beneficial in the long term. RNs in Canada earn an average annual salary of C$60,405. Notably, the absence of high tuition fees allows you to offset education costs with this average salary. Furthermore, additional allowances and facilities, location-dependent, enhance the overall benefits.

New Zealand:

Registered Nurses in New Zealand receive an average annual salary of NZ$56,439, relatively lower compared to the other two countries.

Conclusion

The best place to study nursing in 2024 among Australia, New Zealand, and Canada depends on individual preferences, career goals, and the specific offerings of each country's education system. Researching thoroughly and considering these factors will help you in making an informed decision tailored to your aspirations and circumstances. We at MWT Education Consultancy can help you with your decision and also help you to migrate to your choicest destination. So do not delay any longer, get in touch with us to realise your dreams.