Nursing Education Frequently Asked Questions

What qualification will I gain?

A Bachelors degree - either a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) or a Bachelor of Health Science (BSc) depending on the institutional name of the qualification. Following completion of the programme, you will be eligible for registration in New Zealand as a Registered Nurse (RN) which enables you to work in any area of nursing in New Zealand. If you want to become a midwife you will need to enrol directly into a Midwifery degree programme which will enable you to graduate as a practicing midwife at the end of your studies. Alternatively, you could complete a nursing programme prior to entering a midwifery programme, or vice versa. Also refer to the New Zealand College of Midwives.

What is the entry criteria?

Entry criteria will depend on the institution you apply to and will be the similar to entry into any degree programme. You will also be required to give information about your health and any convictions you may have as part of your entry application.

How long is the programme?

Programmes are usually three years, or 3600 hours (1200 per year) however if you have already completed relevant study at a similar educational level you may apply for Recognition of Prior learning (RPL). All institutions have an RPL policy.

How much classroom and practical is there in the programme?

Nursing Council regulations require that at least 1500 hours or half the programme over the three years is spend in practice - some in nursing simulation laboratories, with most in hospital and community health settings.

What topics are taught?

Nursing Council criteria # 4.1

The context is specific to New Zealand and includes:

• The Treaty of Waitangi/ Maori health, Cultural safety, Nursing theory and practice, Biological and physical sciences, Social sciences, Health systems, History and politics of nursing, Communication skills, Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, Health science and health promotion, Ethics and law, Research, Organisation and supervision skills.

Practice content must include:

• Community health nursing, Maternal and infant health nursing, Child and family nursing, Medical nursing, Surgical nursing, Mental health nursing, Disability, rehabilitation and continuing care.

How will I learn nursing skills?

By being taught in simulated nursing laboratory situations then working in clinical areas with support from lecturers and nursing staff.

How can I apply to get into a programme?

Check the weblinks of NETS members to get information relevant to each institution.

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National Association of Nurse Education in the Tertiary Sector, PO Box 28050, Kelburn, Wellington, New Zealand. Phone +64 4 237-3103 extn 3804 or +64 274 774 719.
Email: kathryn.holloway@whitireia.ac.nz.