What is Nursing?
Nursing is a profession within the healthcare sector focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities so they may attain, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life.
Universities That Offer Nursing In South Africa
Nursing at (UP) University of Pretoria
Nursing at (UWC) University of Western Cape
Nursing at (WITS) University of the Witwatersrand
Nursing at (CPUT) Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Nursing at (NWU) North-West University
Nursing at (DUT) Durban University of Technology
Nursing at (NMMU) Nelson Mandela University
Nursing at (SMU) Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Nursing at ( TUT) Tshwane University of Technology
Nursing at (UCT) University of Cape Town
Nursing at (UFH) University of Fort Hare
Nursing at (US) Stellenbosch University
Nursing at (UJ) University of Johannesburg
Nursing at (UNISA) University of South Africa
Nursing at (Unizulu) University of Zululand
Nursing at ( WSU ) Walter Sisulu University
Nursing at (UKZN) University Kwazulu-Natal
Nursing at (UFS) University of Free State
Nursing at (VUT) Vaal University of Technology
How many years does it take to study nursing in South Africa?
four years
Nursing Science equips students to serve others and enrich their lives. The course requires full-time study for a period of four years. During the course, students are prepared for two career fields, namely general nursing and midwifery.
What are the requirements for nursing in South Africa?
Types of Nursing Courses
Senior Certificate In Nursing
A Senior Certificate of Nursing equips you with the necessary skills to become a competent nurse. It is typically a shorter course option compared to a diploma or degree. To gain admission to this course, you must have met the following requirements:
- Successful completion of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an overall score of 16 points.
- A minimum of 40% in English or home language.
- A minimum of 50% for Life Science or Biology.
Diploma In Nursing
A Diploma in Nursing provides comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge to prepare you for a range of nursing roles.
This qualification offers a broader scope of study and prepares you for more advanced responsibilities than a Senior Certificate in Nursing. Requirements for admission into a Diploma in Nursing course in South Africa include:
- Matriculation or an equivalent qualification.
- Passes in subjects such as Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science.
- Enrollment as a nurse with the South African Nursing Council.
Bachelor Of Science In Nursing
A Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing is a four-year program that offers a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of nursing theory, research, and practice.
This certification is ideal for those who wish to pursue leadership roles or specialize in specific areas of nursing. To pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in South African institutions of Higher Learning, you must have met the following criteria:
- Matriculation or an equivalent qualification.
- Passes in subjects such as Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science.
- Enrollment as a nurse with the South African Nursing Council.
What qualifications do I need to become a nurse in South Africa?
This can be a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) degree or a Diploma in Nursing. You can find a list of recognized institutions on the South African Nursing Council (SANC) website.
Once you have your nursing degree, you need to register with the SANC. This is a legal requirement for all nurses in South Africa.
Is nursing in demand in South Africa?
Nursing in focus
At the end of December 2020, there were over 21,000 nurses in training. Life Healthcare said that in 2022, however, the country needs as many as 26,000 additional nurses to meet the growing demand.
How long is nursing in South Africa?
4-year
Nursing is a 4-year full-time course. During your studies, you’ll gain integrated learning and work experience at hospitals and various clinical facilities.