University of KwaZulu-Natal UKZN Nursing Requirements
Bachelor of Nursing Undergraduate Degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal
Embark on a transformative journey with the Bachelor of Nursing degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and become a catalyst for change in your community and beyond. Amidst the evolving landscapes of South Africa, you have the chance to engage with and drive progress within the nation’s healthcare system, shaping the future of health in society.
Overview of the B Nursing Degree
This comprehensive 4-year Nursing Science degree will credential you as a multi-specialized nurse, qualified as a General Nurse, midwife, psychiatric nurse, and community health nurse. Graduation opens a vista of opportunities: practice in diverse environments from hospitals to clinics, hospices, ships, and Critical Care units, or pivot towards a career in nursing research or higher academic pursuits leading to Masters or Doctoral degrees.
Distinctive Aspects of the Programme
Our programme is distinguished by three innovative characteristics:
- Community-Centric Approach: Emphasizing Primary Health Care, we extend beyond traditional hospital training, encouraging you to immerse yourself in community healthcare, identify unique health needs, and devise tailored health strategies.
- Interactive Learning Experience: Wave goodbye to monotonous lectures. Our dynamic teaching methods involve case-based and problem-based learning, ensuring you engage actively with real-world health issues.
- Focused Academic Time: The initial two years permit undivided attention to university life, as clinical responsibilities are reserved for vacation periods, allowing a full dedication to academic growth.
A Premier Institution
Our School of Nursing stands out as a leader in nursing education:
- Recognized as a World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Development in Africa.
- Renowned for its exemplary research contributions.
- Pioneering in nursing education innovation for the past decade.
- Home to a diverse international student body.
- Engaging in global collaborations with international Nursing Schools.
Course Structure
First Year:
- Foundational Nursing Studies.
- Elective modules from social sciences or related disciplines (16 credits each).
- Special Science subjects: Anatomy, Physics, and Chemistry.
- Clinical placements during university holidays.
- Physiology in the second semester.
Second Year:
- Advanced non-nursing subjects.
- Community Health Nursing focus.
- Continued clinical placements during breaks.
Third Year:
- Specialization in General Nursing and Unit Administration.
- Introduction to Nursing Research and Pharmacology.
- Three-day weekly hospital engagements plus vacation placements.
Fourth Year:
- In-depth study in Midwifery and Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing.
- Primary Health Care with a four-day weekly community involvement.
Entrance Requirements
- Matriculation exemption is mandatory.
- Acceptance is provisional for Grade 12 students until final results.
- Good health is essential (subject to a medical examination).
Application Criteria
- APS score of 27/32, with English at Level 4 (HL/FAL), Mathematics Literacy or Mathematics at Level 3, and Life Orientation at Level 4, or a matric exemption with 32 points.
Application Process
The Central Admissions Office manages admissions across the region. Ensure your application for the University of KwaZulu-Natal is submitted by 30 September. Include the Health Questionnaire from the Central Application Office with your application.
For more information: Central Application Office Contact: 031 268 4444.
