Microcredential
Introduction to Leadership
On this page: Overview | Scope of future study | Learning outcomes | Course structure | Entry requirements | Fees | Apply
Important dates
| 2025 | Applications close | Commences | Census Date | Academic Withdrawal** | Ends | Grade Release |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | 15 January 2025 | 20 January 2025 | 3 February 2025 | 24 February 2025 | 30 March 2025 | 14 April 2025 |
| Term 2 | 9 April 2025 | 14 April 2025 | 28 April 2025 | 19 May 2025 | 22 June 2025 | 7 July 2025 |
| Term 3 | 2 July 2025 | 7 July 2025 | 21 July 2025 | 11 August 2025 | 14 September 2025 | 29 September 2025 |
| Term 4 | 24 September 2025 | 29 September 2025 | 13 October 2025 | 3 November 2025 | 7 December 2025 | 19 January 2026 |
Overview
This microcredential will give an Introduction to Leadership. Part of our role as registered nurses is to be a leader. Professional nurses are leaders of other healthcare team members, and, by their knowledge and skills, we contribute to healthcare and function as leaders with patients and their families. As nurses develop professionally and specialise, their clinical knowledge establishes them as clinical leaders in their areas of excellence. Clinical leadership is based on clinical competence. Leadership functions of the registered nurse include being a collaborative team member, a team builder, a vision setter, and a goal driver.
Developing leadership skills is part of professional development. Nurses can influence how care is delivered in different practice settings as we develop leadership skills.
In this microcredential, you will learn about leadership styles and the characteristics or traits defining nursing leaders. It will also cover what motivation means, some early theories, and more contemporary theories about motivation.
This microcredential is the first in a series of three that corresponds to the unit of study 249 Introduction to Leadership and Management.
Scope of future study
This microcredential can be completed to receive a standalone credential or stacked together in a series of three microcredentials. Completing all three microcredentials in the series allows you to apply for credit towards the unit 249 Introduction to Leadership and Management (6 credit points) to build towards a full Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Management at ACN.
Which unit does this microcredential align with?
Learning outcomes
- critically analyse the values, skills and knowledge relevant to leading and managing
- reflect on and develop their own leadership and management skills
- examine culture and motivation theories in the context of organisational leadership
Course structure
Topics
- Module 1: Leadership
- Module 2: Effective leadership
- Module 3: Motivation
Assessment
- Reflective journal
Entry requirements
Applicable to all nurses and midwives regardless of the workplace setting
Fees
Members: $881
Non-members: $979
Fees are GST inclusive and are subject to change without notice.
Meet your Nurse Educator
Kirsten Masters, Nurse Educator – Higher Education
RN, MACN, Cert IV TAE, BNg, GradCertEd, MNg(CritCare)
e: kirsten.masters@acn.edu.au
» About me
Kirsten brings over 10 years of nursing experience, with a distinguished background working in major tertiary hospitals in Sydney, specialising in Emergency Departments and Intensive Care Units. Her expertise has even been featured on reruns of Kings Cross ER! With a deep passion for Emergency Nursing, Kirsten thrives in its fast-paced, dynamic environment, which continuously fuels her commitment to the field.
Transitioning to education, Kirsten pursued a Master’s degree in Nursing, majoring in Critical Care, and has since earned a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Most recently, she completed a Graduate Certificate in Education. Her teaching experience spans roles such as marker, clinical facilitator, and educator within both the VET sector and the Bachelor of Nursing program at various institutions.
Kirsten possesses a deep understanding of both nursing practice and teaching techniques, creating a learning environment that fosters critical thinking whilst endeavouring to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. She hopes she can empower nurses to provide the highest standard of care to their patients.
» Collapse
Apply now
Please ensure you read all course information and make sure you meet entry requirements prior to commencing the application form.
Application will not be progressed until all relevant documentation has been received by Customer Services.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health care professionals to study this course. If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person we encourage you to let us know in your application. If you require assistance with completing your application or support during the course, please don’t hesitate to let us know.
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How microcredentials work
Start with a single course, build practical skills you can use immediately, and stack credits towards a graduate certificate when you’re ready.
1
Choose your first course
Start with any microcredential that fits your goals and interests. Each course is online, self-paced, and designed to make an impact in your practice right away.
2
Build your expertise
As you complete more courses, you build expertise in essential areas. Each microcredential you complete adds to your skills and prepares you for greater responsibility.
3
Stack towards a Graduate Certificate
Combine your completed courses to work towards a graduate certificate, creating a pathway to formal qualifications on your own schedule.
Why study with ACN
*The ACN Member discount cannot be applied to the Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Re-entry).
Virtual Open Day
Jump online for Virtual Open Day to learn more about studying with the Australian College of Nursing (ACN).
Whether you are a nurse ready to upskill with a specialty graduate certificate or immunisation course, seeking an entry pathway to Masters or want to explore continuing professional development opportunities, this interactive event will answer all your questions.
Connect directly with experienced nurse educators and academics and discuss your career goals. Learn about how postgraduate study can shape your career, gain tips and tricks on preparing for online study and student life, all from the comfort of your own home.
Discover more course options from ACN
We’re here to help you every step of the way
For general information please contact:
Customer Services
t: (02) 9745 7500
e: customerservices@acn.edu.au
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