QUALIFICATION
New Zealand Diploma (Level 5, 180 credits)
Duration
18 months
Location
Hamilton City Campus
Fees
NZD $26,600
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (no individual band lower than 6.5)
Next Intake
February
Programme Overview
This programme prepares you to work in clinical settings as an Enrolled Nurse (EN). You will gain specialized knowledge in nursing theory, social sciences, and human anatomy, developing practical skills in both simulated environments and real-world clinical placements.
A key feature is the Tihei Mauri Ora Kaupapa stream, which offers Māori and Pacific students a supportive model of care focused on improving indigenous health outcomes through customs, protocols, and pastoral care. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) exam to become a Registered Enrolled Nurse.
What You'll Study
The 18-month programme is split into three semesters, combining classroom learning with clinical practice.
Semester One (Level 4 Foundations):
- NURS4400: Human Body Systems.
- NURS4401: Nursing Practice 1.
- NURS4402: Professional Practice.
- NURS4403: Hauora Population Health.
Semester Two (Level 5 Intermediate):
- NURS5500: Knowledge and Evidence for Practice.
- NURS5501: Pathophysiology and Pharmacology.
- NURS5502: Nursing Practice 2 (30 credits).
Semester Three (Level 5 & 6 Advanced):
- NURS5503: Nursing Practice 3 (30 credits).
- NURS6600: Transition to Enrolled Nursing Practice (30 credits).
Why Choose This Programme?
- Short-Term Path: Become a registered nurse in just 18 months.
- Hands-On Experience: Includes blocks of clinical placements in areas such as rehabilitation, acute care, and mental health within the Waikato region.
- Clinical Focus: Heavy emphasis on practical skills in nursing simulation laboratories before entering clinical settings.
- Supportive Environment: Access to the Tihei Mauri Ora stream for culturally integrated learning and pastoral support.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Hospitals | Enrolled Nurse in Surgical, Medical, or Acute Wards |
| Community Health | Rehabilitation Assistant, Mental Health Support Nurse |
| Aged Care | Enrolled Nurse in Residential Care, Palliative Care Nurse |
| Primary Health | Practice Nurse Assistant, School Clinic Nurse |
Entry Requirements
- Academic: NCEA Level 2 with specific science and math credits, or a Level 3 Health Science pathway certificate.
- Selection: Mandatory self-declarations for criminal convictions and health status, plus a personal statement. An interview may be required.
- Safety Checks: Full safety checks (police vetting and referee checks) as per the Children's Act 2014.
- Compliance: Current Comprehensive First Aid Certificate and evidence of immunity/vaccination status (Wintec Immunisation Form).
- English: IELTS Academic 6.5 (all bands 6.5 or higher).
