QUALIFICATION
Bachelor’s Degree (Level 7, 360 credits)
Duration
3 years
Location
Nelson
Fees
NZ$29,120
Entry Score
IELTS 6.5 (in all subtests) or NZCEL 5
Next Intake
February
Programme Overview
The Bachelor of Nursing at NMIT prepares students for the role of a Registered Nurse through a blend of theoretical knowledge, clinical simulation, and extensive hands-on experience. The programme emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care, incorporating physical, social, and spiritual wellbeing.
A significant portion of the degree is spent in clinical placements across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, primary health care, and mental health facilities. Graduates are eligible to sit the Nursing Council of New Zealand State Final Examination to become a Registered Nurse.
What You'll Study
The curriculum is divided into three years, increasing in clinical complexity and theoretical depth.
Year 1: Foundations of Nursing
- Human Science: Anatomy and Physiology (focusing on normal body function).
- Nursing Practice: Introduction to fundamental nursing skills and professional ethics.
- Social Science: Understanding health and wellbeing in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand.
- Clinical: Initial placements in aged care or community settings.
Year 2: Altered Health & Management
- Pathophysiology: Studying diseases and how the body responds to illness and pharmacological interventions.
- Acute Care: Managing patients with more complex medical and surgical needs.
- Mental Health: Theoretical and practical approaches to mental health and addiction nursing.
- Clinical: Rotations in medical and surgical wards.
Year 3: Professional Practice & Transitions
- Complex Care: Managing high-dependency patients and community health initiatives.
- Research: Evidence-based practice and nursing research projects.
- Management: Leadership, delegation, and health law.
- Transition to Practice: A final extended clinical placement (preceptorship) to prepare for the Registered Nurse role.
Why Choose This Programme?
- State-of-the-Art Simulation: High-fidelity simulation suites allow students to practice emergency and routine procedures in a safe environment.
- Clinical Hours: Over 1,100 hours of supervised clinical practice across the three years.
- Cultural Safety: Strong focus on Kawa Whakaruruhau (Cultural Safety) and the health needs of Māori.
- Regional Diversity: Placements across Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough provide experience in both urban and rural healthcare.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Hospital Care | Medical/Surgical Nurse, Emergency, ICU, Pediatrics, Theatre |
| Community | District Nurse, Practice Nurse (GP Clinic), Public Health Nurse |
| Mental Health | Mental Health Nurse, Addiction Specialist, Community Support |
| Specialized | Aged Care Manager, Flight Nurse, Research Nurse, Nurse Educator |
Entry Requirements
- Academic: NCEA Level 3 with UE. Applicants must have a strong foundation in science.
- Health & Character: Must meet the requirements for the Children's Act 2014 (Police Vetting) and provide a health declaration including vaccination status.
- Selection: This is a high-demand programme. Selection is based on academic merit, a personal statement, references, and often an interview.
- English: Strict requirement of IELTS 7.0 (or equivalent) in all bands for those whom English is a second language.
- First Day Essentials: Students must purchase a specific nursing uniform and equipment (e.g., stethoscope, fob watch).
