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Bachelor of Nursing (Articulated with University of Canterbury Master of Health Science)

Course details

Bachelor of Nursing (Articulated with University of Canterbury Master of Health Science)
Domestic tuition $4,030 per year
NZQF Level 7

About the course

This programme allows you to gain both a Bachelor of Nursing from Ara and a Master of Health Sciences from the University of Canterbury in just two years.

To enrol in this programme, you must already hold a degree (in any subject, although previous study in the field of health or science is an advantage).

During your studies you will attend postgraduate health sciences courses at UC which will be recognised as prior learning for credit to the degree at Ara. You will also attend classes in Ara's clinical practice units (CPU) and complete clinical placements arranged and managed by Ara's nursing staff.

You will cover the full range of topics in relation to the field of nursing. The topics UC and Ara teach students across both these programmes include professional responsibilities and best practices, patient health assessment, acute and long term care, mental health and addiction rehabilitation and whānau and community health.

This combination of qualifications offers the fastest and most effective way to combine the necessary skills and competencies to be registered as a nurse by the Nursing Council of New Zealand while getting the postgraduate studies which can assist your career progression.

The delivery of these programmes offers flexible and independently oriented study, perfectly suited to self-motivated students with strong ambition.

For details of the University of Canterbury courses and degree regulations for the Master of Health Science Professional Practice visit the University of Canterbury website at: http://www.canterbury.ac.nz/education/qualifications-and-courses/health-sciences/nursing/

For entry requirements for the Master of Health Sciences see University of Canterbury

For detailed information about this programme please contact:

Dr Isabel Jamieson RN
Programme Coordinator
[email protected]
Phone 03 940 8250 or 021 284 8250

Applications are received all year for this programme.

Please note: As places are limited on this programme we strongly recommend applying as soon as you know you wish to study with us.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

To qualify for this pathway you must meet the entry requirements for both the University of Canterbury Master of Health Sciences Professional Practice (Nursing) and Ara Bachelor of Nursing.

A relevant bachelor's degree, or appropriate health professional qualification, with a B average or better,
Alternative requirements

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Additional requirements

In addition you need to:

provide a personal statement outlining why you have chosen nursing as a career and describe personal qualities and relevant aspects from your life experiences which will enhance your application.
provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee report(s).
provide a first aid certificate (Red Cross Comprehensive or St John's Workplace) which is current at the time the programme starts.
meet various Health Authority requirements in order to participate in the clinical components of the programme. Currently, MRSA clearance is required by most clinical practice areas.
Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on your placement. The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Head of School. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
you may be required to attend an interview if you meet academic entry criteria to ensure you will meet the Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements for registration on completion of the programme.

Your personal statement, referees' reports, and interview (if required) should provide evidence of appropriateness to study for the nursing profession.

English requirements

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study. Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart .

OR

If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS, Pearson or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS test report form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

About the provider

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.

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