List of Nursing Courses in South Africa (2025)

Nursing is one of the most rewarding and essential professions in the healthcare industry, offering the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. If you are considering a career in nursing in South Africa, it’s crucial to understand the different types of nursing courses available, the qualifications required, and where to study.

Overview of Nursing Education in South Africa

Nursing education in South Africa is regulated by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), the professional body responsible for maintaining nursing standards, overseeing nursing qualifications, and ensuring quality education. Nursing courses in South Africa vary based on the level of qualification and specialization you are aiming for, ranging from basic certificates to advanced degrees in nursing and midwifery.

Types of Nursing Courses in South Africa

South Africa offers a variety of nursing courses, catering to different levels of education and career aspirations. Below is a detailed list of the most popular nursing courses in the country:

1. Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing

This is an entry-level nursing course that qualifies students to work as Enrolled Nursing Auxiliaries. The focus of this program is on providing basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse.

– Duration: 1 year
– Level: NQF Level 5
– Typical Subjects: Basic nursing care, anatomy, physiology, and first aid.
– Where to Study: Many nursing colleges and technical vocational education and training (TVET) colleges across South Africa offer this certificate.

2. Diploma in Nursing (Staff Nurse)

The Diploma in Nursing is designed to train students to become Staff Nurses. It provides a broader understanding of healthcare and nursing practices, preparing students to take on more responsibilities than nursing auxiliaries.

– Duration: 3 years
– Level: NQF Level 6
– Typical Subjects: General nursing care, pharmacology, health assessment, midwifery, and community health nursing.
– Career Opportunities: Graduates can register with SANC as Staff Nurses and work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.
– Where to Study: Nursing colleges and universities across South Africa, such as Netcare Education and Life College of Learning, offer this diploma.

3. Bachelor of Nursing (BNSc)

The Bachelor of Nursing is a comprehensive four-year program that qualifies graduates to become Registered Professional Nurses. This degree focuses on a broad spectrum of nursing skills, theoretical knowledge, and practical experience.

– Duration: 4 years
– Level: NQF Level 8
– Typical Subjects: Nursing theory, clinical practice, medical-surgical nursing, community health nursing, psychiatry, and midwifery.
– Career Opportunities: Graduates can become Registered Nurses or Midwives, working in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, community clinics, and private practices.
– Where to Study: Leading South African universities such as the University of Pretoria (UP), University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), University of Cape Town (UCT), and University of South Africa (UNISA) offer this degree.

4. Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Postgraduate)

The Advanced Diploma in Nursing is designed for those who are already qualified nurses but want to specialize in a particular area of nursing, such as critical care, psychiatric nursing, or midwifery.

– Duration: 1-2 years (depending on the area of specialization)
– Level: NQF Level 7
– Typical Subjects: Specialized subjects in the chosen field, such as advanced midwifery, pediatric nursing, oncology, or critical care nursing.
– Career Opportunities: This qualification allows nurses to practice in highly specialized areas of nursing and often leads to leadership or teaching roles.
– Where to Study: Universities such as Stellenbosch University, University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), and North-West University offer advanced diploma programs.

5. Master’s in Nursing (MSc Nursing)

The Master’s in Nursing is a postgraduate degree designed for nurses who want to advance their academic qualifications and take on leadership, research, or academic roles within the nursing profession.

– Duration: 1-2 years
– Level: NQF Level 9
– Typical Subjects: Research methodology, advanced clinical practice, health policy, and nursing education.
– Career Opportunities: Graduates can become nurse educators, researchers, clinical specialists, or healthcare managers.
– Where to Study: Major universities like University of Pretoria (UP), Wits University, and UCT offer MSc Nursing programs.

6. PhD in Nursing

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing is the highest level of academic qualification in nursing. This degree is intended for those who wish to contribute to nursing knowledge through research, policy development, and advanced clinical practice.

– Duration: 3-5 years
– Level: NQF Level 10
– Typical Subjects: Independent research, healthcare innovation, advanced theory, and nursing education.
– Career Opportunities: A PhD in Nursing prepares graduates for roles such as academic researchers, healthcare policy developers, senior clinical practitioners, and university lecturers.
– Where to Study: PhD programs are offered at institutions like University of Cape Town (UCT), Stellenbosch University, and University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).

Specialized Nursing Courses in South Africa

In addition to general nursing programs, South Africa offers various specialized nursing courses for registered nurses who wish to further their expertise in specific areas of healthcare. Some of the most popular nursing specialties include:

– Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing: Focuses on maternal and newborn care, preparing nurses to become midwives.
– Community Health Nursing: Emphasizes public health, with a focus on health promotion and disease prevention in community settings.
– Critical Care Nursing: Specializes in providing care to critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs).
– Oncology Nursing: Focuses on the care of patients with cancer, including chemotherapy administration and palliative care.
– Pediatric Nursing: Specializes in the care of children from infancy through adolescence.

Admission Requirements for Nursing Courses in South Africa

The admission requirements for nursing courses in South Africa vary depending on the level of the program. However, there are some general requirements that are common across most institutions:

1. National Senior Certificate (NSC): A matric certificate with a minimum APS score (usually ranging from 21 to 27 points) is required for undergraduate programs.
2. Compulsory Subjects: For most nursing programs, applicants need to have passed subjects such as Mathematics, Life Sciences (Biology), and English.
3. Health and Fitness: Nursing is a physically and emotionally demanding profession, and students must be in good health to meet the demands of the job.
4. English Proficiency: Since most nursing programs in South Africa are taught in English, applicants must have a good command of the language.

Accreditation and Registration

It’s important to ensure that the nursing course and the institution you choose are accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC). Graduates must also register with SANC before they can legally practice as nurses or midwives in South Africa.

Related:

Conclusion

South Africa offers a wide range of nursing courses to suit different career paths, from entry-level qualifications to advanced degrees and specialties. Whether you want to become a staff nurse, a midwife, or a nursing educator, there are plenty of opportunities to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare.

By choosing the right course and institution, and ensuring that your qualifications are recognized by the South African Nursing Council, you can embark on a fulfilling journey in nursing, contributing to the health and well-being of communities across the country.

Nursing Colleges