QUALIFICATION
Bachelor's Degree (Level 7, 360 credits)
Duration
3 years full-time
Location
Christchurch and Timaru
Fees
NZD $29,761 per year (2026 indicative; confirm current fee)
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (6.5 in each band)
Next Intake
February or March in Christchurch (confirm current intakes with us)
Programme Overview
The Bachelor of Nursing (Puahou Tapuhi o Aotearoa) at Ara Institute of Canterbury is a three-year Level 7 degree that prepares you to become a registered nurse in New Zealand. It is offered in Christchurch and Timaru.
Graduates are eligible to sit the Nursing Council of New Zealand registration examination. Places are limited, so apply early with a complete application.
What You'll Study
- Foundations of Nursing Practice 1 and 2
- The Human Body 1 and 2
- Nursing in Aotearoa New Zealand
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Kawa Whakaruruhau and Cultural Safety for Nursing
- Communication in Nursing Practice
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for Nursing Practice
- Nursing Clinical Tuatahi, Tuarua and Tuatoru (clinical courses)
- Nursing in the Global Context and Transition to Registered Nurse Practice
Why Choose This Programme?
- Route to registration: graduates can sit the Nursing Council of New Zealand registration exam.
- Clinical learning: clinical courses run through all three years.
- Two locations: study in Christchurch or Timaru.
Ready to apply? Book a free consultation, read our study in New Zealand guide or browse all courses.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Registered nurse | General nursing after passing the Nursing Council of New Zealand registration exam. |
| Specialty areas | Intensive care, cancer, women's health, mental health, community or elderly care. |
| Further study | Graduate Certificate in Nursing Practice, with specialisations. |
Entry Requirements
- New Zealand University Entrance with three Level 3 subjects including English, a science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physical Education) and one other subject, or an equivalent overseas qualification. Ara's Level 4 Pre-Health Pathway is also accepted.
- English: IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with 6.5 in each band. PTE Academic is also accepted.
- Need help with your English test? See our IELTS and PTE coaching.
Related Links
Related Programs
New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)
ARA INSTITUTE OF CANTERBURY
Program
Manawa campus, Christchurch
Entry Score: IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (6.5 in each band), or OET C+ in all bands
Post Study Work Visa
Intake: March (international applications close 1 November; confirm with us)
Bachelor of Medical Imaging
ARA INSTITUTE OF CANTERBURY
- Program
- Christchurch, with clinical placements across New Zealand
- Entry Score: IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (6.5 in each band)
- Post Study Work Visa
- Intake: January (one intake a year; applications close in August of the year before)
